ITRI 10Q 6.30.11
Table of Contents

 
 
 
 
 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
 
 
FORM 10-Q
 
x
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2011
OR
 
o
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from             to             
Commission file number 000-22418
ITRON, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 
Washington
 
91-1011792
(State of Incorporation)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)
2111 N Molter Road, Liberty Lake, Washington 99019
(509) 924-9900
(Address and telephone number of registrant’s principal executive offices)
 
 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  x    No  ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes  x    No  ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
 
 
Large accelerated filer
x
Accelerated filer
¨
 
 
Non-accelerated filer
o  (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting company
¨
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes  ¨    No  x
As of June 30, 2011 there were outstanding 40,696,130 shares of the registrant’s common stock, no par value, which is the only class of common stock of the registrant.
 

Table of Contents

Itron, Inc.
Table of Contents
 
 
 
 
Page    
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 1A: Risk Factors
 
 
 
 
Item 6: Exhibits
 
 
 
 

Table of Contents

PART I: FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1: Financial Statements (Unaudited)
ITRON, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(UNAUDITED)
 
 
Three Months Ended
June 30,
 
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
 
(restated)
 
 
 
(restated)
 
(in thousands, except per share data)
Revenues
$
612,401

 
$
567,339

 
$
1,176,092

 
$
1,064,962

Cost of revenues
421,318

 
393,283

 
800,899

 
733,842

Gross profit
191,083

 
174,056

 
375,193

 
331,120

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating expenses
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sales and marketing
48,845

 
40,974

 
93,493

 
82,511

Product development
40,931

 
33,022

 
81,376

 
66,062

General and administrative
35,118

 
33,285

 
68,449

 
66,342

Amortization of intangible assets
16,197

 
16,766

 
31,794

 
34,577

Restructuring
1,907

 

 
1,907

 

Total operating expenses
142,998

 
124,047

 
277,019

 
249,492

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income
48,085

 
50,009

 
98,174

 
81,628

Other income (expense)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest income
168

 
111

 
476

 
278

Interest expense
(11,420
)
 
(13,965
)
 
(23,534
)
 
(28,888
)
Other income (expense), net
(2,477
)
 
(425
)
 
(4,073
)
 
(1,017
)
Total other income (expense)
(13,729
)
 
(14,279
)
 
(27,131
)
 
(29,627
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income before income taxes
34,356

 
35,730

 
71,043

 
52,001

Income tax (provision) benefit
80

 
(10,419
)
 
(9,487
)
 
(1,440
)
Net income
$
34,436

 
$
25,311

 
$
61,556

 
$
50,561

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Earnings per common share - Basic
$
0.85

 
$
0.63

 
$
1.52

 
$
1.26

Earnings per common share - Diluted
$
0.84

 
$
0.61

 
$
1.50

 
$
1.23

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted average common shares outstanding - Basic
40,670

 
40,329

 
40,608

 
40,261

Weighted average common shares outstanding - Diluted
41,077

 
41,161

 
41,059

 
41,011

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
ITRON, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands)
 
 
June 30, 2011
 
December 31, 2010
 
(unaudited)
 
 
ASSETS
 
 
 
Current assets
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
168,284

 
$
169,477

Accounts receivable, net
377,835

 
371,662

Inventories
253,079

 
208,157

Deferred tax assets current, net
55,145

 
55,351

Other current assets
104,496

 
77,570

Total current assets
958,839

 
882,217

 
 
 
 
Property, plant, and equipment, net
301,458

 
299,242

Deferred tax assets noncurrent, net
12,714

 
35,050

Other long-term assets
68,967

 
28,242

Intangible assets, net
292,930

 
291,670

Goodwill
1,311,771

 
1,209,376

Total assets
$
2,946,679

 
$
2,745,797

 
 
 
 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 
 
 
Current liabilities
 
 
 
Accounts payable
$
268,462

 
$
241,949

Other current liabilities
41,630

 
49,690

Wages and benefits payable
94,855

 
110,479

Taxes payable
27,976

 
19,725

Current portion of debt
234,449

 
228,721

Current portion of warranty
29,999

 
24,912

Unearned revenue
49,722

 
28,258

Total current liabilities
747,093

 
703,734

 
 
 
 
Long-term debt
341,121

 
382,220

Long-term warranty
32,839

 
26,371

Pension plan benefit liability
69,675

 
61,450

Deferred tax liabilities noncurrent, net
51,539

 
54,412

Other long-term obligations
86,942

 
89,315

Total liabilities
1,329,209

 
1,317,502

 
 
 
 
Commitments and contingencies

 

 
 
 
 
Shareholders’ equity
 
 
 
Preferred stock

 

Common stock
1,339,504

 
1,328,249

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net
81,390

 
(34,974
)
Retained earnings
196,576

 
135,020

Total shareholders’ equity
1,617,470

 
1,428,295

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
$
2,946,679

 
$
2,745,797

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
ITRON, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(UNAUDITED)
 
 
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
 
(restated)
 
(in thousands)
Operating activities
 
 
 
Net income
$
61,556

 
$
50,561

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization
64,299

 
65,071

Stock-based compensation
9,518

 
9,121

Amortization of prepaid debt fees
2,265

 
2,762

Amortization of convertible debt discount
5,336

 
4,957

Deferred taxes, net
6,081

 
(8,132
)
Other adjustments, net
285

 
3,306

Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisition:
 
 
 
Accounts receivable
(12,106
)
 
(52,124
)
Inventories
(36,668
)
 
(40,930
)
Other current assets
(21,268
)
 
8,375

Other long-term assets
(22,993
)
 
(763
)
Accounts payables, other current liabilities, and taxes payable
16,523

 
42,463

Wages and benefits payable
(21,531
)
 
19,648

Unearned revenue
24,159

 
2,365

Warranty
9,510

 
14,355

Other operating, net
2,726

 
(3,949
)
Net cash provided by operating activities
87,692

 
117,086

 
 
 
 
Investing activities
 
 
 
Acquisitions of property, plant, and equipment
(28,712
)
 
(27,716
)
Business acquisition, net of cash equivalents acquired
(14,635
)
 

Other investing, net
513

 
4,495

Net cash used in investing activities
(42,834
)
 
(23,221
)
 
 
 
 
Financing activities
 
 
 
Payments on debt
(55,630
)
 
(73,881
)
Issuance of common stock
2,553

 
6,812

Other financing, net
(319
)
 
(2,237
)
Net cash used in financing activities
(53,396
)
 
(69,306
)
 
 
 
 
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
7,345

 
(9,081
)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
(1,193
)
 
15,478

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
169,477

 
121,893

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$
168,284

 
$
137,371

 
 
 
 
Non-cash transactions:
 
 
 
Property, plant, and equipment purchased but not yet paid, net
$
978

 
$
(3,491
)
Fair value of contingent and deferred consideration payable for business acquisition
5,108

 

 
 
 
 
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
 
 
 
Cash paid during the period for:
 
 
 
Income taxes, net
$
6,842

 
$
9,355

Interest, net of amounts capitalized
15,927

 
21,178

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

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ITRON, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
June 30, 2011
(UNAUDITED)
In this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, the terms “we,” “us,” “our,” “Itron,” and the “Company” refer to Itron, Inc.

Note 1:    Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

We were incorporated in the state of Washington in 1977. We provide a portfolio of products and services to utilities for the energy and water markets throughout the world.

Financial Statement Preparation
The condensed consolidated financial statements presented in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q are unaudited and reflect entries necessary for the fair presentation of the Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011 and 2010, the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, and the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the six months ended June 30, 2011 and 2010 of Itron, Inc. and its subsidiaries. All entries required for the fair presentation of the financial statements are of a normal recurring nature, except as disclosed.

Certain information and notes normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) have been condensed or omitted pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regarding interim results. These condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the 2010 audited financial statements and notes included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, as filed with the SEC on February 25, 2011. The results of operations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011 are not necessarily indicative of the results expected for the full fiscal year or for any other fiscal period.

Basis of Consolidation
We consolidate all entities in which we have a greater than 50% ownership interest or in which we exercise control over the operations. We use the equity method of accounting for entities in which we have a 50% or less investment and exercise significant influence. Entities in which we have less than a 20% investment and where we do not exercise significant influence are accounted for under the cost method. Variable interest entities of which we are the primary beneficiary are consolidated. At June 30, 2011, our investments in variable interest entities and noncontrolling interests were not material. Intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated upon consolidation.

Business Acquisition
On January 10, 2011, we completed the acquisition of Asais S.A.S. and Asais Conseil S.A.S. (collectively Asais), an energy information management software and consulting services provider, located in France. The acquisition consisted of cash and contingent consideration. The acquisition was immaterial to our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows. (See Business Combinations policy below.)

Cash and Cash Equivalents
We consider all highly liquid instruments with remaining maturities of three months or less at the date of acquisition to be cash equivalents.

Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
Accounts receivable are recorded for invoices issued to customers in accordance with our contractual arrangements. Interest and late payment fees are minimal. Unbilled receivables are recorded when revenues are recognized upon product shipment or service delivery and invoicing occurs at a later date. We record an allowance for doubtful accounts representing our estimate of the probable losses in accounts receivable at the date of the balance sheet based on our historical experience of bad debts and our specific review of outstanding receivables. Accounts receivable are written-off against the allowance when we believe an account, or a portion thereof, is no longer collectible.

Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market using the first-in, first-out method. Cost includes raw materials and labor, plus applied direct and indirect costs.

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Derivative Instruments
All derivative instruments, whether designated in hedging relationships or not, are recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value as either assets or liabilities. The components and fair values of our derivative instruments, which are primarily interest rate swaps, are determined using the fair value measurements of significant other observable inputs (Level 2), as defined by GAAP. The net fair value of our derivative instruments may switch between a net asset and a net liability depending on market circumstances at the end of the period. We include the effect of our counterparty credit risk based on current published credit default swap rates when the net fair value of our derivative instruments are in a net asset position and the effect of our own nonperformance risk when the net fair value of our derivative instruments are in a net liability position.

For any derivative designated as a fair value hedge, the changes in the fair value of the derivative and of the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk are recognized in earnings. For any derivative designated as a cash flow hedge, the effective portions of changes in the fair value of the derivative are recorded as a component of other comprehensive income (OCI) and are recognized in earnings when the hedged item affects earnings. For our hedge of a net investment, the effective portion of any unrealized gain or loss from the foreign currency revaluation of the hedging instrument is reported in OCI as a net unrealized gain or loss on derivative instruments. Ineffective portions of fair value changes or the changes in fair value of derivative instruments that do not qualify for hedging activities are recognized in other income (expense) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. We classify cash flows from our derivative programs as cash flows from operating activities in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

Derivatives are not used for trading or speculative purposes. Our derivatives are with major international financial institutions, with whom we have master netting agreements; however, our derivative positions are not disclosed on a net basis. There are no credit-risk-related contingent features within our derivative instruments. Refer to Note 7 and Note 12 for further disclosures of our derivative instruments and their impact on OCI.

Property, Plant, and Equipment
Property, plant, and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, generally thirty years for buildings and improvements and three to 10 years for machinery and equipment, computers and purchased software, and furniture. Leasehold improvements are capitalized and amortized over the term of the applicable lease, including renewable periods if reasonably assured, or over the useful lives, whichever is shorter. Construction in process represents capital expenditures incurred for assets not yet placed in service. Costs related to internally developed software and software purchased for internal uses are capitalized and are amortized over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Repair and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred. We have no major planned maintenance activities.

We review long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate the carrying amount of an asset or asset group may not be recoverable. We have had no significant impairments of long-lived assets. Assets held for sale are classified within other current assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets, are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell, and are no longer depreciated. We had no assets held for sale at June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010. Gains and losses from asset disposals and impairment losses are classified within the statement of operations according to the use of the asset.

Prepaid Debt Fees
Prepaid debt fees represent the capitalized direct costs incurred related to the issuance of debt and are recorded as noncurrent assets. These costs are amortized to interest expense over the lives of the respective borrowings, including contingent maturity or call features, using the effective interest method, or straight-line method when associated with a revolving credit facility. When debt is repaid early, the related portion of unamortized prepaid debt fees is written-off and included in interest expense.

Business Combinations
On the date of acquisition, the assets acquired, liabilities assumed, and any noncontrolling interests in the acquiree are recorded at their fair values. The acquiree results of operations are also included as of the date of acquisition in our consolidated results. Intangible assets that arise from contractual/legal rights, or are capable of being separated, as well as in-process research and development, are measured and recorded at fair value, and amortized over the estimated useful life. If practicable, assets acquired and liabilities assumed arising from contingencies are measured and recorded at fair value. If not practicable, such assets and liabilities are measured and recorded when it is probable that a gain or loss has occurred and the amount can be reasonably estimated. The residual balance of the purchase price, after fair value allocations to all identified assets and liabilities, represents goodwill. Acquisition-related costs are expensed as incurred. Restructuring costs are generally expensed in periods subsequent to the acquisition date, and changes in deferred tax asset valuation allowances and acquired income tax uncertainties, including penalties and interest, after the measurement period are recognized as a component of the provision for income taxes.

Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Goodwill and intangible assets have resulted from our acquisitions. We use estimates in determining and assigning the fair value of goodwill and intangible assets at acquisition, including estimates of useful lives of intangible assets, the amount and timing of related future cash flows, and fair values of the related operations. Our intangible assets have finite lives, are amortized over their estimated useful lives based on estimated discounted cash flows, and are tested for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable.

Goodwill is assigned to our reporting units based on the expected benefit from the synergies arising from each business combination, determined by using certain financial metrics, including the forecasted discounted cash flows associated with each reporting unit. Goodwill is tested for impairment as of October 1 of each year, or more frequently if a significant impairment indicator occurs. Determining the fair value of a reporting unit is judgmental in nature and involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions. We forecast discounted future cash flows at the reporting unit level using risk-adjusted discount rates and estimated future revenues and operating costs, which take into consideration factors such as existing backlog, expected future orders, supplier contracts, and expectations of competitive and economic environments. We also identify similar publicly traded companies and develop a correlation, referred to as a multiple, to apply to the operating results of our reporting units.

Contingencies
A loss contingency is recorded if it is probable that an asset has been impaired or a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. We evaluate, among other factors, the degree of probability of an unfavorable outcome and our ability to make a reasonable estimate of the amount of the ultimate loss. Loss contingencies that we determine to be reasonably possible, but not probable, are disclosed. Changes in these factors and related estimates could materially affect our financial position and results of operations.

Bonus and Profit Sharing
We have various employee bonus and profit sharing plans, which provide award amounts for the achievement of annual financial and nonfinancial targets. If management determines it is probable that the targets will be achieved, and the amounts can be reasonably estimated, a compensation accrual is recorded based on the proportional achievement of the financial and nonfinancial targets. Although we monitor and accrue expenses quarterly based on our progress toward the achievement of the annual targets, the actual results at the end of the year may require awards that are significantly greater or less than the estimates made in earlier quarters.

Warranty
We offer standard warranties on our hardware products and large application software products. We accrue the estimated cost of warranty claims based on historical and projected product performance trends and costs. Testing of new products in the development stage helps identify and correct potential warranty issues prior to manufacturing. Continuing quality control efforts during manufacturing reduce our exposure to warranty claims. If our quality control efforts fail to detect a fault in one of our products, we could experience an increase in warranty claims. We track warranty claims to identify potential warranty trends. If an unusual trend is noted, an additional warranty accrual may be assessed and recorded when a failure event is probable and the cost can be reasonably estimated. Management continually evaluates the sufficiency of the warranty provisions and makes adjustments when necessary. The warranty allowances may fluctuate due to changes in estimates for material, labor, and other costs we may incur to repair or replace projected product failures, and we may incur additional warranty and related expenses in the future with respect to new or established products, which could adversely affect our financial position and results of operations. The long-term warranty balance includes estimated warranty claims beyond one year. Warranty expense is classified within cost of revenues.

Defined Benefit Pension Plans
We sponsor both funded and unfunded defined benefit pension plans for our international employees. We recognize a liability for the projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets or an asset for plan assets in excess of the projected benefit obligation. We also recognize the funded status of our defined benefit pension plans on our Consolidated Balance Sheets and recognize as a component of OCI, net of tax, the actuarial gains or losses and prior service costs or credits, if any, that arise during the period but that are not recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost.

Revenue Recognition
Revenues consist primarily of hardware sales, software license fees, software implementation, project management services, installation, consulting, and post-sale maintenance support. Revenues are recognized when (1) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, (2) delivery has occurred or services have been rendered, (3) the sales price is fixed or determinable, and (4) collectability is reasonably assured.

The majority of our revenue arrangements involve multiple deliverables, which combine two or more of the following: hardware, meter reading system software, installation, and/or project management services. Revenue arrangements with multiple deliverables are divided into separate units of accounting if the delivered item(s) has value to the customer on a standalone basis and delivery/performance of the undelivered item(s) is probable. The total arrangement consideration is allocated among the separate units of accounting based on their relative fair values and the applicable revenue recognition criteria considered for each unit of accounting. The amount allocable to a delivered item is limited to the amount that we are entitled to collect and that is not contingent upon the delivery/performance of additional items. Revenues for each deliverable are then recognized based on the type of deliverable, such as 1) when the products are shipped, 2) services are delivered, 3) percentage-of-completion when implementation services are essential to other deliverables in the arrangements, 4) upon receipt of customer acceptance, or 5) transfer of title. The majority of our revenue is recognized when products are shipped to or received by a customer or when services are provided.

We primarily enter into two types of multiple deliverable arrangements, which include a combination of hardware and associated software and services:

Arrangements that do not include the deployment of our smart metering systems and technology are recognized as follows:

Hardware revenues are recognized at the time of shipment, receipt by customer, or, if applicable, upon completion of customer acceptance provisions.
If implementation services are essential to the functionality of the associated software, software and implementation revenues are recognized using either the percentage-of-completion methodology of contract accounting if project costs can be estimated, or the completed contract methodology if project costs cannot be reliably estimated.

Arrangements to deploy our smart metering systems and technology are recognized as follows:

Hardware revenues are recognized at the time of shipment, receipt by customer, or, if applicable, upon completion of customer acceptance provisions.
Revenue from associated software and services is recognized using the units-of-delivery method of contract accounting, as the software is essential to the functionality of the related hardware and the implementation services are essential to the functionality of the associated software. This methodology often results in the deferral of costs and revenues as professional services and software implementation typically commence prior to deployment of hardware.

We also enter into multiple deliverable software arrangements that do not include hardware. For this type of arrangement, revenue recognition is dependent upon the availability of vendor specific objective evidence (VSOE) of fair value for each of the deliverables. The lack of VSOE, or the existence of extended payment terms or other inherent risks, may affect the timing of revenue recognition for software arrangements.

Certain of our revenue arrangements include an extended or noncustomary warranty provision which covers all or a portion of a customer’s replacement or repair costs beyond the standard or customary warranty period. Whether or not the extended warranty is separately priced in the arrangement, a portion of the arrangement’s total consideration is allocated to this extended warranty deliverable. This revenue is deferred and recognized over the extended warranty coverage period. Extended or noncustomary warranties do not represent a significant portion of our revenue.

We allocate consideration to each deliverable in an arrangement based on its relative selling price. We determine selling price using VSOE, if it exists, otherwise we use third-party evidence (TPE). If neither VSOE nor TPE of selling price exists for a unit of accounting, we use estimated selling price (ESP).

VSOE is generally limited to the price charged when the same or similar product is sold separately or, if applicable, the stated renewal rate in the agreement. If a product or service is seldom sold separately, it is unlikely that we can determine VSOE for the product or service. We define VSOE as a median price of recent standalone transactions that are priced within a narrow range. TPE is determined based on the prices charged by our competitors for a similar deliverable when sold separately.

If we are unable to establish selling price using VSOE or TPE, we use ESP in the allocation of arrangement consideration. The objective of ESP is to determine the price at which we would transact if the product or service were regularly sold by us on a standalone basis. Our determination of ESP involves a weighting of several factors based on the specific facts and circumstances of the arrangement. Specifically, we consider the cost to produce the deliverable, the anticipated margin on that deliverable, the selling price and profit margin for similar parts, our ongoing pricing strategy and policies (as evident in the price list established and updated by management on a regular basis), the value of any enhancements that have been built into the deliverable, and the characteristics of the varying markets in which the deliverable is sold. We analyze the selling prices used in our allocation of arrangement consideration on an annual basis. Selling prices are analyzed on a more frequent basis if we experience significant variances in our selling prices or if a significant change in our business necessitates a more timely analysis.

Unearned revenue is recorded when a customer pays for products or services, but the criteria for revenue recognition have not been met as of the balance sheet date. Unearned revenues of $68.7 million and $42.8 million at June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010 related primarily to professional services and software associated with our smart metering contracts, extended or noncustomary warranty, and prepaid post-contract support. Deferred cost is recorded for products or services for which ownership (typically defined as title and risk of loss) has transferred to the customer, but the criteria for revenue recognition have not been met as of the balance sheet date. Deferred costs were $16.6 million and $10.0 million at June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010 and are recorded within other assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Hardware and software post-sale maintenance support fees are recognized ratably over the life of the related service contract. Shipping and handling costs and incidental expenses billed to customers are recorded as revenue, with the associated cost charged to cost of revenues. We record sales, use, and value added taxes billed to our customers on a net basis.

Product and Software Development Costs
Product and software development costs primarily include employee compensation and third party contracting fees. For software we develop to be marketed or sold, we capitalize development costs after technological feasibility is established. Due to the relatively short period of time between technological feasibility and the completion of product and software development, and the immaterial nature of these costs, we generally do not capitalize product and software development expenses.

Stock-Based Compensation
We measure and recognize compensation expense for all stock-based awards made to employees and directors, including stock options, stock sold pursuant to our Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP), and the issuance of restricted stock units and unrestricted stock awards, based on estimated fair values. The fair value of stock options is estimated at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model, which includes assumptions for the dividend yield, expected volatility, risk-free interest rate, and expected life. For ESPP awards, the fair value is the difference between the market close price of our common stock on the date of purchase and the discounted purchase price. For restricted stock units and unrestricted stock awards, the fair value is the market close price of our common stock on the date of grant. We expense stock-based compensation at the date of grant for unrestricted stock awards. For awards with only a service condition, we expense stock-based compensation, adjusted for estimated forfeitures, using the straight-line method over the requisite service period for the entire award. For awards with both performance and service conditions, we expense the stock-based compensation, adjusted for estimated forfeitures, on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for each separately vesting portion of the award. Excess tax benefits are credited to common stock when the deduction reduces cash taxes payable. When we have tax deductions in excess of the compensation cost, they are classified as financing cash inflows in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

Loss on Extinguishment of Debt, Net
Upon partial or full redemption of our borrowings, we recognize a gain or loss for the difference between the cash paid and the net carrying amount of the debt redeemed. Included in the net carrying amount is any unamortized premium or discount from the original issuance of the debt. Due to the particular characteristics of our convertible notes, we recognize a gain or loss upon conversion or derecognition for the difference between the net carrying amount of the liability component (including any unamortized discount and debt issuance costs) and the fair value of the consideration transferred to the holder that is allocated to the liability component, which is equal to the fair value of the liability component immediately prior to extinguishment. In the case of an induced conversion, a loss is recognized for the amount of the fair value of the securities or other consideration transferred to the holder in excess of fair value of the consideration issuable in accordance with the original conversion terms of the debt.

Income Taxes
We compute our interim income tax provision through the use of an estimated annual effective tax rate (ETR) applied to year-to-date operating results and specific events that are discretely recognized as they occur. In determining the estimated annual ETR, we analyze various factors, including projections of our annual earnings, taxing jurisdictions in which the earnings will be generated, the impact of state and local income taxes, our ability to use tax credits and net operating loss carryforwards, and available tax planning alternatives. Discrete items, including the effect of changes in tax laws, tax rates, and certain circumstances with respect to valuation allowances or other unusual or non-recurring tax adjustments, are reflected in the period in which they occur as an addition to, or reduction from, the income tax provision, rather than included in the estimated annual ETR.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized based upon anticipated future tax consequences, in each of the jurisdictions in which we operate, attributable to: (1) the differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective income tax bases; and (2) operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The calculation of our tax liabilities involves applying complex tax regulations in different tax jurisdictions to our tax positions. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance is recorded to reduce the carrying amounts of deferred tax assets if it is not more likely than not that such assets will be realized. We do not record tax liabilities on undistributed earnings of international subsidiaries that are permanently reinvested.

A tax position is first evaluated for recognition based on its technical merits. Tax positions that have a greater than fifty percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement are then measured to determine amounts to be recognized in the financial statements. This measurement incorporates information about potential settlements with taxing authorities. A previously recognized tax position is derecognized in the first period in which the position no longer meets the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold. We classify interest expense and penalties related to uncertain tax positions and interest income on tax overpayments as part of income tax expense.

Foreign Exchange
Our consolidated financial statements are reported in U.S. dollars. Assets and liabilities of international subsidiaries with a non-U.S. dollar functional currency are translated to U.S. dollars at the exchange rates in effect on the balance sheet date, or the last business day of the period, if applicable. Revenues and expenses for these subsidiaries are translated to U.S. dollars using a weighted average rate for the relevant reporting period. Translation adjustments resulting from this process are included, net of tax, in OCI. Gains and losses that arise from exchange rate fluctuations for monetary asset and liability balances that are not denominated in an entity’s functional currency are included within other income (expense), net in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Currency gains and losses of intercompany balances deemed to be long-term in nature or designated as a hedge of the net investment in international subsidiaries are included, net of tax, in OCI.

Fair Value Measurements
For assets and liabilities measured at fair value, the GAAP fair value hierarchy prioritizes the inputs used in different valuation methodologies, assigning the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets and liabilities in actively traded markets (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). Level 2 inputs consist of quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in non-active markets; and model-derived valuations in which significant inputs are corroborated by observable market data either directly or indirectly through correlation or other means (inputs may include yield curves, volatility, credit risks, and default rates). We hold no assets or liabilities measured using Level 1 fair value inputs.

Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Due to various factors affecting future costs and operations, actual results could differ materially from these estimates.

Restatement
The unaudited quarterly financial information for the first three quarters of 2010 was restated in the fourth quarter of 2010. The restatement was made primarily to defer revenue previously recognized on one contract due to a misinterpretation of an extended warranty provision. While the restatement was not deemed material to the first three quarters of 2010, we concluded that the aggregate correction of such amounts would be material to the fourth quarter of 2010. Accordingly, although not material to our financial statements for the first and second quarters of 2010, the results of operations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2010 and cash flows for the six months ended June 30, 2010 have been restated, as well as certain balance sheet components as of June 30, 2010. The consolidated statement of operations, consolidated balance sheet, and consolidated statement of cash flows have been restated, as follows:
 
Consolidated statement of operations
Three Months Ended
June 30, 2010
 
Six Months Ended
June 30, 2010
 
As previously
reported
 
As restated
 
As previously
reported
 
As restated
 
(in thousands, except per share data)
Revenues
$
569,460

 
$
567,339

 
$
1,068,740

 
$
1,064,962

Cost of revenues
393,136

 
393,283

 
733,521

 
733,842

Gross profit
176,324

 
174,056

 
335,219

 
331,120

Operating income
52,277

 
50,009

 
85,727

 
81,628

Income before income taxes
37,998

 
35,730

 
56,100

 
52,001

Income tax (provision) benefit
(11,098
)
 
(10,419
)
 
(2,413
)
 
(1,440
)
Net income
26,900

 
25,311

 
53,687

 
50,561

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Earnings per common share - Basic
$
0.67

 
$
0.63

 
$
1.33

 
$
1.26

Earnings per common share - Diluted
$
0.65

 
$
0.61

 
$
1.31

 
$
1.23


 Consolidated balance sheet
June 30, 2010
 
As previously reported
 
As restated
 
(in thousands)
Accounts receivable, net
366,476

 
366,240

Deferred tax assets noncurrent, net
67,684

 
68,657

Long-term warranty
22,953

 
23,274

Other long-term obligations
67,908

 
71,478

Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net
(116,019
)
 
(116,047
)
Retained earnings
83,937

 
80,811


 Consolidated statement of cash flow
Six Months Ended
June 30, 2010
 
As previously reported
 
As restated
 
(in thousands)
Operating activities
 
 
 
Net income
$
53,687

 
$
50,561

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
 
 
 
Deferred taxes, net
(7,159
)
 
(8,132
)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisition:
 
 
 
Accounts receivable
(52,332
)
 
(52,124
)
Unearned revenue
(1,205
)
 
2,365

Warranty
14,034

 
14,355



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Note 2:    Earnings Per Share and Capital Structure

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share (EPS):

 
Three Months Ended
June 30,
 
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
 
(in thousands, except per share data)
Net income available to common shareholders
$
34,436

 
$
25,311

 
$
61,556

 
$
50,561

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted average common shares outstanding - Basic
40,670

 
40,329

 
40,608

 
40,261

Dilutive effect of convertible notes

 
283

 

 
206

Dilutive effect of stock-based awards
407

 
549

 
451

 
544

Weighted average common shares outstanding - Diluted
41,077

 
41,161

 
41,059

 
41,011

Earnings per common share - Basic
$
0.85

 
$
0.63

 
$
1.52

 
$
1.26

Earnings per common share - Diluted
$
0.84

 
$
0.61

 
$
1.50

 
$
1.23


Convertible Notes
We are required, pursuant to the indenture for the convertible notes, to settle the principal amount of the convertible notes in cash and may elect to settle the remaining conversion obligation (stock price in excess of conversion price) in cash, shares, or a combination. We include in the EPS calculation the amount of shares it would take to satisfy the conversion obligation, assuming that all of the convertible notes are converted. The average quarterly closing prices of our common stock were used as the basis for determining the dilutive effect on EPS. The average price of our common stock for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011 did not exceed the conversion price of $65.16 and, therefore, did not have an effect on diluted EPS. The average price of our common stock for the three and six months ended June 30, 2010 exceeded the conversion price of $65.16 and, therefore, approximately 283,000 and 206,000 shares have been included in the diluted EPS calculation for those respective periods.

Stock-based Awards
For stock-based awards, the dilutive effect is calculated using the treasury stock method. Under this method, the dilutive effect is computed as if the awards were exercised at the beginning of the period (or at time of issuance, if later) and assumes the related proceeds were used to repurchase common stock at the average market price during the period. Related proceeds include the amount the employee must pay upon exercise, future compensation cost associated with the stock award, and the amount of excess tax benefits, if any. Approximately 672,000 and 664,000 stock-based awards were excluded from the calculation of diluted EPS for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, and approximately 308,000 and 385,000 stock-based awards were excluded from the calculation of diluted EPS for the three and six months ended June 30, 2010, respectively, because they were anti-dilutive. These stock-based awards could be dilutive in future periods.

Preferred Stock
We have authorized the issuance of 10 million shares of preferred stock with no par value. In the event of a liquidation, dissolution, or winding up of the affairs of the corporation, whether voluntary or involuntary, the holders of any outstanding preferred stock will be entitled to be paid a preferential amount per share to be determined by the Board of Directors prior to any payment to holders of common stock. Shares of preferred stock may be converted into common stock based on terms, conditions, and rates as defined in the Rights Agreement, which may be adjusted by the Board of Directors. There was no preferred stock sold or outstanding at June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010.


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Note 3:    Certain Balance Sheet Components
 
Accounts receivable, net
June 30, 2011
 
December 31, 2010
 
(in thousands)
Trade receivables (net of allowance of $8,980 and $9,045)
$
348,736

 
$
328,811

Unbilled receivables
29,099

 
42,851

Total accounts receivable, net
$
377,835

 
$
371,662


At June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, $134,000 and $12.5 million were recorded within trade receivables as billed but not yet paid by customers in accordance with contract retainage provisions. At June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, contract retainage amounts that were unbilled and classified as unbilled receivables were $4.5 million and $2.1 million. These contract retainage amounts within trade receivables and unbilled receivables are expected to be collected within the following 12 months.

At June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, long-term unbilled receivables and long-term retainage contract receivables were $36.5 million and $5.9 million. The increase in long-term receivables from December 31, 2010 to June 30, 2011 includes $12.5 million of retainage contract receivables and $12.0 million of unbilled receivables, which were reclassified to long-term at June 30, 2011 due to a delay in reaching certain contract milestones required for payment. These long-term unbilled receivables and retainage contract receivables are classified within other long-term assets as collection is not anticipated within the following 12 months. However, collection is expected within the following 18 months.

Allowance for doubtful account activity
Three Months Ended
June 30,
 
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
 
(in thousands)
Beginning balance
$
9,030

 
$
5,870

 
$
9,045

 
$
6,339

Provision (release) of doubtful accounts, net
298

 
742

 
(48
)
 
662

Accounts written-off
(505
)
 
(43
)
 
(552
)
 
(173
)
Effects of change in exchange rates
157

 
(271
)
 
535

 
(530
)
Ending balance
$
8,980

 
$
6,298

 
$
8,980

 
$
6,298

 
Inventories
June 30, 2011
 
December 31, 2010
 
(in thousands)
Materials
$
132,303

 
$
106,021

Work in process
26,058

 
18,389

Finished goods
94,718

 
83,747

Total inventories
$
253,079

 
$
208,157


Our inventory levels may vary period to period as a result of our factory scheduling and the timing of contract fulfillments, which may include the buildup of finished goods for shipment.

Consigned inventory is held at third-party locations; however, we retain title to the inventory until purchased by the third-party. Consigned inventory, consisting of raw materials and finished goods, was $15.1 million and $17.6 million at June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively.
 

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Property, plant, and equipment, net
June 30, 2011
 
December 31, 2010
 
(in thousands)
Machinery and equipment
$
284,431

 
$
265,113

Computers and purchased software
69,894

 
63,077

Buildings, furniture, and improvements
150,987

 
146,661

Land
33,879

 
35,968

Construction in progress, including purchased equipment
24,600

 
20,531

Total cost
563,791

 
531,350

Accumulated depreciation
(262,333
)
 
(232,108
)
Property, plant, and equipment, net
$
301,458

 
$
299,242


Depreciation expense
Three Months Ended
June 30,
 
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
 
(in thousands)
Depreciation expense
$
16,571

 
$
14,994

 
$
32,505

 
$
30,494

Note 4:    Intangible Assets

The gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization of our intangible assets, other than goodwill, are as follows:

 
June 30, 2011
 
December 31, 2010
 
Gross Assets
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
Net
 
Gross Assets
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
Net
 
(in thousands)
Core-developed technology
$
406,570

 
$
(302,669
)
 
$
103,901

 
$
378,705

 
$
(274,198
)
 
$
104,507

Customer contracts and relationships
307,223

 
(131,606
)
 
175,617

 
282,997

 
(110,539
)
 
172,458

Trademarks and trade names
77,078

 
(64,196
)
 
12,882

 
73,194

 
(59,235
)
 
13,959

Other
11,177

 
(10,647
)
 
530

 
24,256

 
(23,510
)
 
746

Total intangible assets
$
802,048

 
$
(509,118
)
 
$
292,930

 
$
759,152

 
$
(467,482
)
 
$
291,670


A summary of the intangible asset account activity is as follows:

 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
(in thousands)
Beginning balance, intangible assets, gross
$
759,152

 
$
806,256

Intangible assets acquired
10,297

 

Assets no longer in use written-off
(8,369
)
 

Effect of change in exchange rates
40,968

 
(78,155
)
Ending balance, intangible assets, gross
$
802,048

 
$
728,101


Intangible assets that were written-off had been fully amortized and were no longer in use. Intangible assets of our international subsidiaries are recorded in their respective functional currency; therefore, the carrying amounts of intangible assets increase or decrease, with a corresponding change in accumulated OCI, due to changes in foreign currency exchange rates.


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Estimated future annual amortization expense is as follows:

 
Years ending December 31,
Estimated Annual
Amortization
 
(in thousands)
2011 (amount remaining at June 30, 2011)
$
32,306

2012
50,234

2013
41,442

2014
34,082

2015
27,997

Beyond 2015
106,869

Total intangible assets, net
$
292,930

Note 5:    Goodwill

The following table reflects goodwill allocated to each reporting segment at June 30, 2011 and 2010:

 
Itron North
America
 
Itron
International
 
Total Company
 
(in thousands)
Goodwill balance at January 1, 2010
$
197,515

 
$
1,108,084

 
$
1,305,599

Effect of change in exchange rates
89

 
(159,606
)
 
(159,517
)
Goodwill balance at June 30, 2010
$
197,604

 
$
948,478

 
$
1,146,082

 
 
 
 
 
 
Goodwill balance at January 1, 2011
$
198,048

 
$
1,011,328

 
$
1,209,376

Goodwill acquired

 
10,251

 
10,251

Effect of change in exchange rates
205

 
91,939

 
92,144

Goodwill balance at June 30, 2011
$
198,253

 
$
1,113,518

 
$
1,311,771

Note 6:    Debt

The components of our borrowings are as follows:

 
June 30, 2011
 
December 31, 2010
 
(in thousands)
Term loans
 
 
 
USD denominated term loan
$
200,616

 
$
218,642

EUR denominated term loan
151,350

 
174,031

Convertible senior subordinated notes
223,604

 
218,268

Total debt
575,570

 
610,941

Current portion of long-term debt
(234,449
)
 
(228,721
)
Long-term debt
$
341,121

 
$
382,220


Credit Facility
Our credit facility is dated April 18, 2007 and includes two amendments dated April 24, 2009 and February 10, 2010. The principal balance of our euro denominated term loan at June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010 was €105.8 million and €132.4 million, respectively. Interest rates on the credit facility are based on the respective borrowing's denominated London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) or the Wells Fargo Bank, National Association's prime rate, plus an additional margin subject to our consolidated leverage ratio. The additional interest rate margin was 3.50% at June 30, 2011. Our interest rates were 3.70% for the U.S. dollar denominated and 4.72% for the euro denominated term loans at June 30, 2011. Scheduled amortization of principal payments is 1% per year (0.25% quarterly) with an excess cash flow provision for additional annual principal repayment requirements. The amount of the excess cash flow provision payment varies according to our consolidated leverage ratio. Maturities of the term loans and the multicurrency revolving line of credit are in April 2014 and 2013, respectively. The credit facility is secured by substantially all of the assets of Itron, Inc. and our U.S. domestic operating subsidiaries and includes covenants, which contain certain financial ratios and place restrictions on the incurrence of debt, the payment of dividends, certain investments, incurrence of capital

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expenditures above a set limit, and mergers.

The credit facility includes a multicurrency revolving line of credit, which was increased from $240 million to $315 million on January 20, 2011. The increase was completed under the terms of the credit facility. Prepaid debt fees of $379,000 were capitalized associated with the increase in the credit line. There were no other changes to the credit facility.

At June 30, 2011, there were no borrowings outstanding under the revolving line of credit, and $40.0 million was utilized by outstanding standby letters of credit, resulting in $275.0 million being available for additional borrowings.

We repaid $2.7 million and $55.6 million of the term loans during the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, respectively. Repayments of $21.1 million and $73.9 million were made during the three and six months ended June 30, 2010, respectively. These term loan repayments were made with cash flows from operations and cash on hand. We were in compliance with the debt covenants under the credit facility at June 30, 2011.

Convertible Senior Subordinated Notes
On August 4, 2006, we issued $345 million of 2.50% convertible notes due August 2026. Fixed interest payments are required every six months, in February and August of each year. For each six month period beginning August 2011, contingent interest payments of approximately 0.19% of the average trading price of the convertible notes will be made if certain thresholds are met or events occur, as outlined in the indenture. The convertible notes are registered with the SEC and are generally transferable. Our convertible notes are not considered conventional convertible debt as the number of shares, or cash, to be received by the holders was not fixed at the inception of the obligation. We have concluded that the conversion feature of our convertible notes does not need to be bifurcated from the host contract and accounted for as a freestanding derivative, as the conversion feature is indexed to our own stock and would be classified within stockholders’ equity if it were a freestanding instrument.
The convertible notes may be converted at the option of the holder at a conversion rate of 15.3478 shares of our common stock for each $1,000 principal amount of the convertible notes, under the following circumstances, as defined in the indenture:
if the closing sale price per share of our common stock exceeds $78.19, which is 120% of the conversion price of $65.16, for at least 20 trading days in the 30 consecutive trading day period ending on the last trading day of the preceding fiscal quarter;
between July 1, 2011 and August 1, 2011, and any time after August 1, 2024;
during the five business days after any five consecutive trading day period in which the trading price of the convertible notes for each day was less than 98% of the average conversion value of the convertible notes;
if the convertible notes are called for redemption;
if a fundamental change occurs; or
upon the occurrence of defined corporate events.
The amount payable upon conversion is the result of a formula based on the closing prices of our common stock for 20 consecutive trading days following the date of the conversion notice. Based on the conversion ratio of 15.3478 shares per $1,000 principal amount of the convertible notes, if our stock price is lower than the conversion price of $65.16, the amount payable will be less than the $1,000 principal amount and will be settled in cash. Our closing stock price at June 30, 2011 was $48.16 per share.
Upon conversion, the principal amount of the convertible notes will be settled in cash and, at our option, the remaining conversion obligation (stock price in excess of conversion price) may be settled in cash, shares, or a combination. The conversion rate for the convertible notes is subject to adjustment upon the occurrence of certain corporate events, as defined in the indenture, to ensure that the economic rights of the convertible note holders are preserved.
The convertible notes also contain purchase options, at the option of the holders, which if exercised would require us to repurchase all or a portion of the convertible notes on August 1, 2011, August 1, 2016, and August 1, 2021 at 100% of the principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest. If we are required to purchase the convertible notes at 100% of the principal amount, no gain or loss would be recognized upon derecognition as the fair value of the consideration transferred to the holder would equal the fair value of the liability component.
On or after August 1, 2011, we have the option to redeem all or a portion of the convertible notes at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest. If we elect to redeem all or a portion of the convertible notes at 100% of the principal amount, no gain or loss would be recognized upon derecognition as the fair value of the consideration transferred to the holder would equal the fair value of the liability component.
The convertible notes are unsecured, subordinated to our credit facility (senior secured borrowings), and are guaranteed by one

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U.S. subsidiary, which is 100% owned. The convertible notes contain covenants, which place restrictions on the incurrence of debt and certain mergers. We were in compliance with these debt covenants at June 30, 2011.
The convertible notes are classified as current on the Consolidated Balance Sheet due to the combination of put, call, and conversion options occurring in 2011.

Our convertible notes are separated between the liability and equity components using our estimated non-convertible debt borrowing rate at the time our convertible notes were issued, which was determined to be 7.38%. This rate also reflects the effective interest rate on the liability component. The equity component would be retained as a permanent component of our shareholders' equity in the event the convertible notes are either purchased or redeemed at 100% of the principal amount. At June 30, 2011, the discount on the liability component was fully amortized. The carrying amounts of the debt and equity components are as follows:

 
June 30, 2011
 
December 31, 2010
 
(in thousands)
Face value of convertible notes
$
223,604

 
$
223,604

Unamortized discount

 
(5,336
)
Net carrying amount of debt component
$
223,604

 
$
218,268

 
 
 
 
Carrying amount of equity component
$
31,831

 
$
31,831


The interest expense relating to both the contractual interest coupon and amortization of the discount on the liability component are as follows:

 
Three Months Ended
June 30,
 
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
 
(in thousands)
Contractual interest coupon
$
1,397

 
$
1,397

 
$
2,795

 
$
2,795

Amortization of the discount on the liability component
2,693

 
2,501

 
5,336

 
4,957

Total interest expense on convertible notes
$
4,090

 
$
3,898

 
$
8,131

 
$
7,752

Note 7:    Derivative Financial Instruments

As part of our risk management strategy, we use derivative instruments to hedge certain foreign currency and interest rate exposures. Refer to Note 1, Note 12, and Note 13 for additional disclosures on our derivative instruments.

The fair values of our derivative instruments are determined using the income approach and significant other observable inputs (also known as “Level 2”), as defined by FASB Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 820-10-20, Fair Value Measurements. We have used observable market inputs based on the type of derivative and the nature of the underlying instrument. The key inputs used at June 30, 2011 included interest rate yield curves (swap rates and futures) and foreign exchange spot and forward rates, all of which are available in an active market. We have utilized the mid-market pricing convention for these inputs at June 30, 2011. We include the effect of our counterparty credit risk based on current published credit default swap rates when the net fair value of our derivative instruments is in a net asset position. We consider our own nonperformance risk when the net fair value of our derivative instruments is in a net liability position by discounting our derivative liabilities to reflect the potential credit risk to our counterparty through applying a current market indicative credit spread to all cash flows.


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The fair values of our derivative instruments determined using the fair value measurement of significant other observable inputs (Level 2) at June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010 are as follows:
 
 
 
 
 
Fair Value
 
 
Balance Sheet Location
 
June 30,
2011
 
December 31,
2010
 
 
 
 
(in thousands)
Asset Derivatives
 
 
 
 
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815-20
 
 
 
 
Foreign exchange forward contracts
 
Other current assets
 
$
171

 
$
63

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liability Derivatives
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815-20
 
 
 
 
Interest rate swap contracts
 
Other current liabilities
 
$
2,395

 
$
5,845

Interest rate swap contracts
 
Other long-term obligations
 
182

 
975

Euro denominated term loan *
 
Current portion of debt
 
4,794

 
4,402

Euro denominated term loan *
 
Long-term debt
 
146,556

 
169,629

Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815-20
 
$
153,927

 
$
180,851

 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815-20
 
 
 
 
Foreign exchange forward contracts
 
Other current liabilities
 
$
200

 
$
457

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total liability derivatives
 
 
 
$
154,127

 
$
181,308


* The euro denominated term loan is a nonderivative financial instrument designated as a hedge of our net investment in international operations. It is recorded at its carrying value in the Consolidated Balance Sheets and is not recorded at fair value.

OCI during the reporting period for our derivative and nonderivative instruments designated as hedging instruments (collectively, hedging instruments), net of tax, was as follows:
 
 
2011
 
2010
 
(in thousands)
Net unrealized loss on hedging instruments at January 1,
$
(10,034
)
 
$
(30,300
)
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments
(164
)
 
(2,542
)
Unrealized gain (loss) on a nonderivative net investment hedging instrument
(9,262
)
 
24,352

Realized (gains) losses reclassified into net income (loss)
2,774

 
4,197

Net unrealized loss on hedging instruments at June 30,
$
(16,686
)
 
$
(4,293
)

Cash Flow Hedges
We are exposed to interest rate risk through our credit facility. We enter into swaps to achieve a fixed rate of interest on the hedged portion of debt in order to increase our ability to forecast interest expense. The objective of these swaps is to protect us from increases in the LIBOR base borrowing rates on our floating rate credit facility. The swaps do not protect us from changes to the applicable margin under our credit facility.

In 2007, we entered into a pay fixed 6.59% receive three-month Euro Interbank Offered Rate (EURIBOR), plus 2%, amortizing interest rate swap to convert a significant portion of our euro denominated variable-rate term loan to fixed-rate debt, plus or minus the variance in the applicable margin from 2%, through December 31, 2012. The cash flow hedge is currently, and is expected to be, highly effective in achieving offsetting cash flows attributable to the hedged risk through the term of the hedge. Consequently, effective changes in the fair value of the interest rate swap are recorded as a component of OCI and are recognized in earnings when the hedged item affects earnings. The amounts paid or received on the hedge are recognized as adjustments to interest expense. The notional amount of the swap is reduced each quarter and was $115.6 million (€80.8 million) and $147.7 million (€112.4 million) as of June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively. The amount of net losses expected to be reclassified into earnings in the next 12 months is approximately $2.2 million (€1.5 million), which was based on the Reuters euro swap yield curve as of June 30, 2011.

Our two one-year pay-fixed receive one-month LIBOR interest rate swaps, which each converted $100 million of our U.S. dollar term loan from a floating LIBOR interest rate to fixed interest rates of 2.11% and 2.15%, respectively, expired on June 30, 2011. These swaps did not include the additional interest rate margin applicable to our term debt.

We will continue to monitor and assess our interest rate risk and may institute additional interest rate swaps or other derivative instruments to manage such risk in the future.

The before tax effect of our cash flow derivative instruments on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and the Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three and six months ended June 30 are as follows:
 
Derivatives in ASC 815-20
Cash Flow
Hedging Relationships
 
Amount of Gain (Loss)
Recognized in OCI on
Derivative  (Effective
Portion)
 
Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated
OCI into Income (Effective Portion)
 
Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on
Derivative (Ineffective Portion)
Location
 
Amount
 
Location
 
Amount
 
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(in thousands)
Three Months Ended June 30,
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate swap contracts
 
$
(2,149
)
 
$
(839
)
 
Interest expense
 
$
(1,788
)
 
$
(3,238
)
 
Interest expense
 
$
(31
)
 
$
(14
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate swap contracts
 
$
(4,477
)
 
$
(4,122
)
 
Interest expense
 
$
(4,171
)
 
$
(6,810
)
 
Interest expense
 
$
(80
)
 
$
(74
)

Net Investment Hedge
We are exposed to foreign exchange risk through our international subsidiaries. As a result of our acquisition of an international company in 2007, we entered into a euro denominated term loan, which exposes us to fluctuations in the euro foreign exchange rate. Therefore, we have designated this foreign currency denominated term loan as a hedge of our net investment in international operations. The non-functional currency term loan is revalued into U.S. dollars at each balance sheet date, and the changes in value associated with currency fluctuations are recorded as adjustments to long-term debt with offsetting gains and losses recorded in OCI. The notional amount of the term loan declines each quarter due to repayments and was $151.4 million (€105.8 million) and $174.0 million (€132.4 million) as of June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively. We had no hedge ineffectiveness.

The before tax and net of tax effects of our net investment hedge nonderivative financial instrument on OCI for the three and six months ended June 30 are as follows:
 
Nonderivative Financial Instruments in ASC 815-20
Net Investment Hedging Relationships
 
Euro Denominated Term Loan Designated as a Hedge
of Our  Net Investment in International Operations
 
 
Three Months Ended
June 30,
 
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
(in thousands)
Gain (loss) recognized in OCI on derivative
(Effective Portion)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Before tax
 
$
(2,343
)
 
$
20,943

 
$
(14,923
)
 
$
39,498

Net of tax
 
$
(1,452
)
 
$
12,908

 
$
(9,262
)
 
$
24,352


Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Relationships
We are also exposed to foreign exchange risk when we enter into non-functional currency transactions, both intercompany and third-party. At each period-end, foreign currency monetary assets and liabilities are revalued with the change recorded to other income and expense. We enter into monthly foreign exchange forward contracts (a total of 257 contracts were entered into during the six months ended June 30, 2011), not designated for hedge accounting, with the intent to reduce earnings volatility associated with certain of these balances. The notional amounts of the contracts ranged from $50,000 to $72 million, offsetting our exposures from the euro, British pound, Canadian dollar, Czech koruna, Hungarian forint, and various other currencies.


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Table of Contents

The effect of our foreign exchange forward derivative instruments on the Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three and six months ended June 30 is as follows:
 
Derivatives Not Designated as
Hedging Instrument under ASC 815-20
 
Gain (Loss) Recognized on Derivatives in Other Income (Expense)
 
Three Months Ended
June 30,
 
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
(in thousands)
Foreign exchange forward contracts
 
$
(1,259
)
 
$
3,316

 
$
(3,341
)
 
$
3,047

Note 8:    Defined Benefit Pension Plans

We sponsor both funded and unfunded defined benefit pension plans for our international employees, primarily in Germany, France, Italy, Indonesia, and Spain, offering death and disability, retirement, and special termination benefits. The defined benefit obligation is calculated annually by using the projected unit credit method. The measurement date for the pension plans was December 31, 2010.
Our defined benefit pension plans are denominated in the functional currencies of the respective countries in which the plans are sponsored; therefore, the balances increase or decrease, with a corresponding change in OCI, due to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. Amounts recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheets consist of:
 
 
June 30, 2011
 
December 31, 2010
 
(in thousands)
Plan assets in other long term assets
$
(468
)
 
$
(412
)
Current portion of pension plan liability in wages and benefits payable
2,910

 
2,656

Long-term portion of pension plan liability
69,675

 
61,450

Net pension plan benefit liability
$
72,117

 
$
63,694

Our asset investment strategy focuses on maintaining a portfolio using primarily insurance funds, which are accounted for as investments and measured at fair value, in order to achieve our long-term investment objectives on a risk adjusted basis. Our general funding policy for these qualified pension plans is to contribute amounts sufficient to satisfy regulatory funding standards of the respective countries for each plan. We contributed $37,000 and $391,000 to the defined benefit pension plans for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, and $313,000 and $338,000 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2010, respectively. The timing of when contributions are made can vary by plan and from year to year. For 2011, assuming that actual plan asset returns are consistent with our expected rate of return, and that interest rates remain constant, we expect to contribute approximately $500,000 to our defined benefit pension plans. We contributed $519,000 to the defined benefit pension plans for the year ended December 31, 2010.
Net periodic pension benefit costs for our plans include the following components:
 
 
Three Months Ended
June 30,
 
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
 
(in thousands)
Service cost
$
601

 
475

 
$
1,218

 
$
1,000

Interest cost
969

 
844

 
1,886

 
1,750

Expected return on plan assets
(83
)
 
(71
)
 
(163
)
 
(148
)
Amortization of actuarial net loss (gain)
14

 
(6
)
 
28

 
(13
)
Amortization of unrecognized prior service costs
19

 

 
37

 

Net periodic benefit cost
$
1,520

 
$
1,242

 
$
3,006

 
$
2,589


11

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Note 9:    Stock-Based Compensation

We record stock-based compensation expense for awards of stock options, stock sold pursuant to our ESPP, and the issuance of restricted stock units and unrestricted stock awards. We expense stock-based compensation primarily using the straight-line method over the vesting requirement period. For the three and six months ended June 30, stock-based compensation expense and the related tax benefit were as follows:
 
 
Three Months Ended
June 30,
 
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
 
(in thousands)
Stock options
$
511

 
$
952

 
$
1,544

 
$
2,295

Restricted stock units
3,853

 
3,441

 
7,404

 
6,382

Unrestricted stock awards
15

 
14

 
190

 
189

ESPP
164

 
138

 
380

 
255

Total stock-based compensation
$
4,543

 
$
4,545

 
$
9,518

 
$
9,121

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Related tax benefit
$
1,257

 
$
1,324

 
$
2,659

 
$
2,732


We issue new shares of common stock upon the exercise of stock options or when vesting conditions on restricted stock units are fully satisfied.

The fair values of stock options granted were estimated at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions:
 
 
Employee Stock Options
 
Three Months Ended
June 30,
 
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
2011(1)
 
2010(1)
 
2011
 
2010
Dividend yield

 

 

 

Expected volatility

 

 
46.6
%
 
48.7
%
Risk-free interest rate

 

 
2.0
%
 
2.3
%
Expected life (years)

 

 
4.85

 
4.61


 (1) There were no employee stock options granted for the three months ended June 30, 2011 and 2010.

Expected volatility is based on a combination of historical volatility of our common stock and the implied volatility of our traded options for the related expected life period. We believe this combined approach is reflective of current and historical market conditions and an appropriate indicator of expected volatility. The risk-free interest rate is the rate available as of the award date on zero-coupon U.S. government issues with a term equal to the expected life of the award. The expected life is the weighted average expected life of an award based on the period of time between the date the award is granted and the date an estimate of the award is fully exercised. Factors considered in estimating the expected life include historical experience of similar awards, contractual terms, vesting schedules, and expectations of future employee behavior. We have not paid dividends in the past and do not plan to pay dividends in the foreseeable future.

Subject to stock splits, dividends, and other similar events, 3,500,000 shares of common stock are reserved and authorized for issuance under our 2010 Stock Incentive Plan (Stock Incentive Plan). Awards consist of stock options, restricted stock units, and unrestricted stock awards. At June 30, 2011, 2,178,243 shares were available for grant under the Stock Incentive Plan.

Stock Options
Options to purchase our common stock are granted to employees and the Board of Directors with an exercise price equal to the market close price of the stock on the date the Board of Directors approves the grant. Options generally become exercisable in three equal annual installments beginning one year from the date of grant and generally expire 10 years from the date of grant. Compensation expense is recognized only for those options expected to vest, with forfeitures estimated based on our historical experience and future expectations.

A summary of our stock option activity for the six months ended June 30 is as follows:
 
 
Shares
 
Weighted
Average Exercise
Price per Share
 
Weighted Average
Remaining
Contractual Life
 
Aggregate
Intrinsic Value (1)
 
Weighted
Average Grant
Date Fair Value
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(years)
 
(in thousands)
 
 
Outstanding, January 1, 2010
1,179

 
$
52.93

 
5.90

 
$
22,863

 
 
Granted
71

 
61.97

 
 
 
 
 
$
27.18

Exercised
(133
)
 
41.51

 
 
 
$
4,114

 
 
Outstanding, June 30, 2010
1,117

 
$
54.89

 
6.04

 
$
15,391

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Exercisable and expected to vest, June 30, 2010
1,104

 
$
54.73

 
6.01

 
$
15,379

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Exercisable, June 30, 2010
963

 
$
52.03

 
5.61

 
$
15,241

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Outstanding, January 1, 2011
1,102

 
$
55.21

 
5.58

 
$
10,883

 
 
Granted
78

 
56.64

 
 
 
 
 
$
23.93

Exercised
(26
)
 
19.91

 
 
 
$
989

 
 
Expired
(1
)
 
7.00

 
 
 
 
 
 
Outstanding, June 30, 2011
1,153

 
$
56.13

 
5.48

 
$
5,903

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Exercisable and expected to vest, June 30, 2011
1,145

 
$
56.12

 
5.45

 
$
5,903

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Exercisable, June 30, 2011
1,029

 
$
55.85

 
5.05

 
$
5,903

 
 

(1) 
The aggregate intrinsic value of outstanding stock options represents amounts that would have been received by the optionees had all in- the-money options been exercised on that date. Specifically, it is the amount by which the market value of Itron’s stock exceeded the exercise price of the outstanding in-the-money options before applicable income taxes, based on our closing stock price on the last business day of the period. The aggregate intrinsic value of stock options exercised during the period is calculated based on our stock price at the date of exercise.

As of June 30, 2011, total unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to nonvested stock options was approximately $2.4 million, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 1.1 years.

Restricted Stock Units
Certain employees and senior management receive restricted stock units as a component of their total compensation. The fair value of a restricted stock unit is the market close price of our common stock on the date of grant. Restricted stock units generally vest over a three year period. Compensation expense, net of forfeitures, is recognized over the vesting period.

Subsequent to vesting, the restricted stock units are converted into shares of our common stock on a one-for-one basis and issued to employees. We are entitled to an income tax deduction in an amount equal to the taxable income reported by the employees upon vesting of the restricted stock units.

The restricted stock units issued under the Long Term Performance Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement (Performance Award Agreement) are determined based on the attainment of annual performance goals after the end of the calendar year performance period. During the year, if management determines that it is probable that the targets will be achieved, compensation expense, net of forfeitures, is recognized on a straight-line basis over the annual performance and subsequent vesting period for each separately vesting portion of the award. Performance awards typically vest and are released in three equal installments at the end of each year following attainment of the performance goals. For U.S. participants who retire during the performance period, a pro-rated number of restricted stock units (based on the number of days of employment during the performance period) immediately vest based on the attainment of the performance goals as assessed after the end of the performance period. During the vesting period, unvested restricted stock units immediately vest at the date of retirement for U.S. participants who retire during that period. For U.S. participants who are or will become retirement eligible during either the annual performance or vesting period, compensation expense is accelerated and recognized over the greater of the performance period (one year) or the participant’s retirement eligible date. For performance awards granted in 2011, the maximum restricted stock units that may become eligible for vesting is 150,000 with a grant date fair value of $56.75.

The following table summarizes restricted stock unit activity for the six months ended June 30:

 
Number of
Restricted Stock Units
 
Weighted
Average  Grant
Date Fair Value
 
Aggregate
Intrinsic Value(1)
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(in thousands)
Outstanding, January 1, 2010
326

 
 
 
 
Granted(2)
210

 
$
63.52

 
 
Released
(75
)
 
 
 
$
4,965

Forfeited
(12
)
 
 
 
 
Outstanding, June 30, 2010
449

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Outstanding, January 1, 2011
588

 
 
 
 
Granted(2)
255

 
$
56.64

 
 
Released
(192
)
 
 
 
$
15,007

Forfeited
(5
)
 
 
 
 
Outstanding, June 30, 2011
646

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Expected to vest, June 30, 2011
545

 
 
 
$
26,268


(1) 
The aggregate intrinsic value is the market value of the stock, before applicable income taxes, based on the closing price on the stock release dates or at the end of the period for restricted stock units expected to vest.

(2) 
These restricted stock units do not include the respective 2010 and 2011 awards under the Performance Awards Agreement, which are not eligible for vesting as of June 30 of each respective year.

At June 30, 2011, unrecognized compensation expense was $26.0 million, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 2.2 years.

Unrestricted Stock Awards
We issue unrestricted stock awards to our Board of Directors as part of their compensation. Awards are fully vested and expensed when issued. The fair value of unrestricted stock awards is the market close price of our common stock on the date of grant.

The following table summarizes unrestricted stock award activity for the three and six months ended June 30:
 
 
Three Months Ended
June 30,
 
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
Shares of unrestricted stock issued
276

 
192

 
3,453

 
2,766

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted average grant date fair value
$
54.17

 
$
77.69

 
$
54.96

 
$
68.49


Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Under the terms of the ESPP, employees can deduct up to 10% of their regular cash compensation to purchase our common stock at a 15% discount from the fair market value of the stock at the end of each fiscal quarter, subject to other limitations under the plan. The sale of the stock occurs at the beginning of the subsequent quarter.


12

Table of Contents

The following table summarizes ESPP activity for the three and six months ended June 30:

 
Three Months Ended
June 30,
 
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
Shares of stock sold to employees(1)
25,567

 
10,736

 
42,625

 
23,086

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted average fair value per ESPP award(2)
$
7.22

 
$
9.27

 
$
7.88

 
$
9.95


(1) 
Stock sold to employees during each fiscal quarter under the ESPP is associated with the offering period ending on the last day of the previous fiscal quarter.

(2) 
Relating to awards associated with the offering period during the three and six months ended June 30.

At June 30, 2011, all compensation cost associated with the ESPP had been recognized. There were approximately 154,000 shares of common stock available for future issuance under the ESPP at June 30, 2011.
Note 10:    Income Taxes

Our tax provisions (benefits) as a percentage of income (loss) before tax typically differs from the federal statutory rate of 35%, and may vary from period to period, due to fluctuations in the forecasted mix of earnings in domestic and international jurisdictions, new or revised tax legislation and accounting pronouncements, tax credits, state income taxes, adjustments to valuation allowances, and interest expense and penalties related to uncertain tax positions, among other items.

For the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, we had tax provision (benefit) of (0.2)% and 13%, based on a percentage of income before tax, as compared with tax provisions of 29% and 3% for the same periods in 2010.

Our tax provision in 2011 is lower than the federal statutory rate due to projected earnings in tax jurisdictions with rates lower than 35%, the benefit of certain interest expense deductions, a benefit related to the settlement of a foreign tax litigation, and an election under U.S. Internal Revenue Code Sections 338 with respect to a foreign acquisition in 2007.

Our tax provisions in 2010 were the result of certain interest expense deductions and the election under U.S. Internal Revenue Code Section 338 with respect to a foreign acquisition in 2007, as well as the estimated mix of earnings in different tax jurisdictions. The 2010 tax provisions also reflect the receipt of a clean energy manufacturing tax credit awarded as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and a benefit related to the reduction of tax reserves for certain foreign subsidiaries.

We classify interest expense and penalties related to unrecognized tax liabilities and interest income on tax overpayments as components of income tax expense. The net interest and penalties expense (benefit) recognized is as follows:
 
 
Three Months Ended
June 30,
 
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
 
(in thousands)
Net interest and penalties expense (benefit)
$
113

 
$
(502
)
 
$
108

 
$
296


Accrued interest and penalties recorded are as follows:

 
June 30, 2011
 
December 31, 2010
 
(in thousands)
Accrued interest
$
4,766

 
$
4,403

Accrued penalties
3,574

 
3,233



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Unrecognized tax benefits related to uncertain tax positions and the amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect our effective tax rate are as follows:
 
 
June 30, 2011
 
December 31, 2010
 
(in thousands)
Unrecognized tax benefits related to uncertain tax positions
$
29,162

 
$
42,175

The amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect our effective tax rate
29,089

 
30,832


At June 30, 2011, we are not able to reasonably estimate the timing of future cash flows relating to our uncertain tax positions.
We believe it is reasonably possible that our unrecognized tax benefits may decrease by approximately $4.4 million within the next twelve months due to the expiration of statute of limitations.
Note 11:    Commitments and Contingencies

Guarantees and Indemnifications
We are often required to obtain standby letters of credit (LOC’s) or bonds in support of our obligations for customer contracts. These standby LOC’s or bonds typically provide a guarantee to the customer for future performance, which usually covers the installation phase of a contract and may on occasion cover the operations and maintenance phase of outsourcing contracts.
Our available lines of credit, outstanding standby LOC’s, and bonds are as follows:
 
 
June 30, 2011
 
December 31, 2010
 
(in thousands)
Credit facility(1)
 
 
 
Multicurrency revolving line of credit
$
315,000

 
$
240,000

Standby LOC’s issued and outstanding
(39,970
)
 
(43,540
)
Net available for additional borrowings and LOC’s
$
275,030

 
$
196,460

 
 
 
 
Unsecured multicurrency revolving lines of credit with various financial institutions
 
 
 
Total lines of credit
$
74,685

 
$
49,122

Standby LOC’s issued and outstanding
(32,329
)
 
(21,784
)
Short-term borrowings(2)
(264
)
 
(66
)
Net available for additional borrowings and LOC’s
$
42,092

 
$
27,272

 
 
 
 
Unsecured surety bonds in force
$
133,352

 
$
120,109


(1) 
See Note 6 for details regarding our credit facility, which is secured.

(2) 
Short-term borrowings are included in “Other current liabilities” on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

In the event any such standby LOC or bond is called, we would be obligated to reimburse the issuer of the standby LOC or bond; however, we do not believe that any outstanding LOC or bond will be called.

We generally provide an indemnification related to the infringement of any patent, copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property right on software or equipment within our sales contracts, which indemnifies the customer from and pays the resulting costs, damages, and attorney’s fees awarded against a customer with respect to such a claim provided that (a) the customer promptly notifies us in writing of the claim and (b) we have the sole control of the defense and all related settlement negotiations. We also provide an indemnification to our customers for third party claims resulting from damages caused by the negligence or willful misconduct of our employees/agents in connection with the performance of certain contracts. The terms of our indemnifications generally do not limit the maximum potential payments. It is not possible to predict the maximum potential amount of future payments under these or similar agreements.

Legal Matters
We are subject to various legal proceedings and claims of which the outcomes are subject to significant uncertainty. Our policy is to assess the likelihood of any adverse judgments or outcomes related to legal matters, as well as ranges of probable losses. A determination of the amount of the liability required, if any, for these contingencies is made after an analysis of each known issue. A liability is recorded and charged to operating expense when we determine that a loss is probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated. Additionally, we disclose contingencies for which a material loss is reasonably possible, but not probable. Liabilities recorded for legal contingencies at June 30, 2011 were not material to our financial condition or results of operations.

In October, 2010, Transdata Incorporated (Transdata) filed a complaint in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas against CenterPoint Energy, one of our customers, and several other utilities alleging infringement of three patents owned by Transdata related to the use of an antenna in a meter. Pursuant to our contract with CenterPoint, we agreed to indemnify and defend CenterPoint in this lawsuit. The complaint seeks unspecified damages as well as injunctive relief. CenterPoint has denied all of the allegations. We believe these claims are without merit and we intend to vigorously defend our interests. We do not believe this matter will have a material adverse effect on our business or financial condition, although an unfavorable outcome could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations for the period in which such a loss is recognized.

On February 23, 2011, a class action lawsuit was filed in U.S. Federal Court for the Eastern District of Washington alleging a violation of federal securities laws relating to a restatement of our financial results for the quarters ended March 31, June 30, and September 30, 2010. These revisions were made primarily to defer revenue that had been incorrectly recognized on one contract due to a misinterpretation of an extended warranty obligation. The effect was to reduce revenue and earnings in each of the first three quarters of the year. For the first nine months of 2010, total revenue was reduced by $6.1 million and diluted EPS was reduced by $0.11. We believe the facts and legal claims alleged are without merit and we intend to vigorously defend our interests.

In March 2011, a lawsuit was filed in the Superior Court of the State of Washington, in and for Spokane County against certain officers and directors seeking unspecified damages on behalf of Itron, Inc. The complaint alleges that the defendants breached their fiduciary obligations to Itron with respect to the restatement of Itron's financial results for the quarters ended March 31, June 30, and September 30, 2010. This lawsuit is a shareholder derivative action that purports to assert claims on behalf of Itron, Inc.

In June 2011, a lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas alleging infringement of three patents owned by EON Corp. IP Holdings, LLC (EON), related to two-way communication networks, network components, and related software platforms. The complaint seeks unspecified damages as well as injunctive relief. Although the complaint was filed, it has not been served and Itron has received a letter from EON requesting settlement discussions. We believe these claims are without merit and we intend to vigorously defend our interests. We do not believe this matter will have a material adverse effect on our business or financial condition, although an unfavorable outcome could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations for the period in which the claim is resolved.

Warranty
A summary of the warranty accrual account activity is as follows:
 
 
Three Months Ended June 30,
 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
 
(in thousands)
Beginning balance
$
59,163

 
$
33,353

 
$
51,283

 
$
33,873

New product warranties
2,196

 
3,221

 
4,079

 
6,017

Other changes/adjustments to warranties
5,631

 
14,366

 
14,643

 
15,596

Reclassification from other current liabilities

 
2,687

 

 
2,878

Claims activity
(4,768
)
 
(3,317
)
 
(9,215
)
 
(7,063
)
Effect of change in exchange rates
616

 
(786
)
 
2,048

 
(1,777
)
Ending balance, June 30
62,838

 
49,524

 
62,838

 
49,524

Less: current portion of warranty
29,999

 
26,250

 
29,999

 
26,250

Long-term warranty
$
32,839

 
$
23,274

 
$
32,839

 
$
23,274


Total warranty expense is classified within cost of revenues and consists of new product warranties issued and other changes and adjustments to warranties.


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Table of Contents

Warranty expense associated with our segments for the three and six months ended June 30 is as follows:
 
 
Three Months Ended June 30,
 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
 
(in thousands)
Itron North America
$
3,625

 
$
6,068

 
$
6,514

 
$
8,739

Itron International
4,202

 
11,519

 
3,650

 
12,874

Total warranty expense
$
7,827

 
$
17,587

 
$
10,164

 
$
21,613


Warranty expense for the six months ended June 30, 2011 for Itron International reflects an $8.6 million recovery from a third party, associated with the settlement of product claims in Sweden in 2010, and a warranty charge of $7.7 million related to certain products in Brazil. Warranty expense for the six months ended June 30, 2010 for Itron International included $9.6 million related to the resolution of claims in Sweden.

Extended Warranty
A summary of changes to unearned revenue for extended warranty contracts is as follows:
 
 
Three Months Ended
June 30,
 
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
 
(in thousands)
Beginning balance
$
17,193

 
$
7,459

 
$
14,637

 
$
5,870

Unearned revenue for new extended warranties
2,215

 
2,587

 
5,148

 
4,546

Unearned revenue recognized
(299
)
 
(381
)
 
(676
)
 
(751
)
Ending balance, June 30
19,109

 
9,665

 
19,109

 
9,665

Less: current portion of unearned revenue for extended warranty
1,160

 
1,319

 
1,160

 
1,319

Long-term unearned revenue for extended warranty within Other long-term obligations
$
17,949

 
$
8,346

 
$
17,949

 
$
8,346


Health Benefits
We are self insured for a substantial portion of the cost of our U.S. employee group health insurance. We purchase insurance from a third party, which provides individual and aggregate stop loss protection for these costs. Each reporting period, we expense the costs of our health insurance plan including paid claims, the change in the estimate of incurred but not reported (IBNR) claims, taxes, and administrative fees (collectively, the plan costs).

Plan costs are as follows:
 
 
Three Months Ended June 30,
 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
 
(in thousands)
Plan costs
$
5,927

 
$
4,316

 
$
12,671

 
$
9,402


IBNR accrual, which is included in wages and benefits payable, are as follows:

 
June 30, 2011
 
December 31, 2010
 
(in thousands)
IBNR accrual
$
2,386

 
$
2,056


Our IBNR accrual and expenses may fluctuate due to the number of plan participants, claims activity, and deductible limits. For our employees located outside of the United States, health benefits are provided primarily through governmental social plans, which are funded through employee and employer tax withholdings.

Restructuring
As a result of our global segment reorganization that was announced in March 2011, we are performing a comprehensive review of our cost structure. We are also completing a feasibility study of our manufacturing footprint to determine how to consolidate our manufacturing operations to reduce costs and improve efficiency. Once these plans are formalized and approved by management, which we expect to be complete in October 2011, we will provide estimated charges by category. Restructuring costs of $1.9 million were recorded in the second quarter of 2011 primarily associated with severance for positions that were eliminated in the second quarter.
Note 12:    Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

OCI is reflected as a net increase (decrease) to shareholders’ equity and is not reflected in our results of operations. Total comprehensive income (loss) during the reporting periods, net of tax, was as follows:

 
Three Months Ended
June 30,
 
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
 
(in thousands)
Net income (loss)
$
34,436

 
$
25,311

 
$
61,556

 
$
50,561

Foreign currency translation adjustment, net
23,097

 
(115,021
)
 
123,544

 
(212,499
)
Net unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments, designated as cash flow hedges, net
(224
)
 
(517
)
 
(164
)
 
(2,542
)
Net unrealized gain (loss) on a nonderivative net investment hedging instrument, net
(1,452
)
 
12,908

 
(9,262
)
 
24,352

Net hedging (gain) loss reclassified into net income (loss), net
1,332

 
1,995

 
2,774

 
4,197

Pension plan benefits liability adjustment, net
24

 
(117
)
 
(528
)
 
(685
)
Total comprehensive income (loss)
$
57,213

 
$
(75,441
)
 
$
177,920

 
$
(136,616
)

Income tax (provision) benefit related to OCI during the reporting periods was as follows:
 
 
Three Months Ended
June 30,
 
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
 
(in thousands)
Foreign currency translation adjustment
$
(67
)
 
$
(72
)
 
$
(412
)
 
$
(585
)
Net unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges
137

 
322

 
142

 
1,580

Net unrealized gain (loss) on a nonderivative net investment hedging instrument
891

 
(8,035
)
 
5,661

 
(15,146
)
Net hedging (gain) loss reclassified into net income (loss)
(817
)
 
(1,243
)
 
(1,703
)
 
(2,613
)
Pension plan benefits liability adjustment
(9
)
 
38

 
217

 
221

Total income tax (provision) benefit on other comprehensive income (loss)
$
135

 
$
(8,990
)
 
$
3,905

 
$
(16,543
)

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, was $81.4 million at June 30, 2011 and $(35.0) million at December 31, 2010. These amounts include adjustments for foreign currency translation, the unrealized gain (loss) on our hedging instruments, the hedging gain (loss), and the pension liability adjustment as indicated above.

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Note 13:    Fair Values of Financial Instruments
The fair values at June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010 do not reflect subsequent changes in the economy, interest rates, tax rates, and other variables that may affect the determination of fair value.
 
 
June 30, 2011
 
December 31, 2010
 
Carrying
Amount
 
Fair
Value
 
Carrying
Amount
 
Fair
Value
Assets
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
168,284

 
$
168,284

 
$
169,477

 
$
169,477

Foreign exchange forwards
171

 
171

 
63

 
63

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Term loans
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
USD denominated term loan
$
200,616

 
$
201,619

 
$
218,642

 
$
219,462

EUR denominated term loan
151,350

 
152,107

 
174,031

 
174,684

Convertible senior subordinated notes
223,604

 
224,163

 
218,268

 
236,461

Interest rate swaps
2,577

 
2,577

 
6,820

 
6,820

Foreign exchange forwards
200

 
200

 
457

 
457

The following methods and assumptions were used in estimating fair values:
Cash and cash equivalents: Due to the liquid nature of these instruments, the carrying value approximates fair value.
Term loans: The term loans are not registered with the SEC but are generally transferable through banks that hold the debt and make a market. The fair value is based on quoted prices from recent trades of the term loans.
Convertible senior subordinated notes: The convertible notes are registered with the SEC and are generally transferable. The fair value is based on quoted prices from recent broker trades of the convertible notes. At June 30, 2011, the discount on the liability component was fully amortized. See Note 6 for further discussion.
Derivatives: See Note 7 for a description of our methods and assumptions in determining the fair value of our derivatives, which were determined using fair value measurements of significant other observable inputs (Level 2).
Note 14:    Segment Information

We have two operating segments: Itron North America and Itron International. Itron North America generates the majority of its revenues in the United States and Canada, while Itron International generates the majority of its revenues in Europe, and the balance in Africa, Latin America, and Asia/Pacific.

On March 14, 2011, we announced a global reorganization in which the Company will be managed under two operating segments, Energy and Water. Although certain management positions of the Company’s two new operating segments have been identified, a transition to the new organizational structure, including changes to operations and financial and operational management systems will continue through the remainder of 2011. Throughout 2011, management and external financial reporting will be based on the current geographic operating segments, Itron North America and Itron International, as the new segment information will not be available until changes to the operations have occurred and new systems and processes are deployed. Financial reporting of the Energy and Water operating segments is expected in the first quarter of 2012.

We have three measures of segment performance: revenue, gross profit (margin), and operating income (margin). Intersegment revenues were minimal. Corporate operating expenses, interest income, interest expense, other income (expense), and income tax provision (benefit) are not allocated to the segments, nor included in the measure of segment profit or loss.


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Table of Contents

Segment Products 

Itron North America
Standard electricity (electronic), gas, and water meters; advanced and smart electricity and water meters and communication modules; advanced and smart gas communication modules; advanced systems including handheld, mobile, and fixed network collection technologies; smart network technologies; meter data management software; knowledge application solutions; and professional services including implementation, installation, consulting, and analysis.
 
 
Itron International
Standard electricity (electromechanical and electronic), gas, and water meters; advanced electricity, gas, and water meters; advanced water communication modules; smart electricity meters and communication modules; prepayment systems, including smart key, keypad, and smart card communication technologies; advanced systems including handheld, mobile, and fixed network collection technologies; smart network technologies; meter data management software; knowledge application solutions; and professional services including implementation, installation, consulting/analysis, and system management.

Revenues, gross profit, and operating income associated with our segments were as follows:
 
 
Three Months Ended June 30,
 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
 
(in thousands)
Revenues
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Itron North America
$
288,224

 
$
301,143

 
$
565,206

 
$
542,702

Itron International
324,177

 
266,196

 
610,886

 
522,260

Total Company
$
612,401

 
$
567,339

 
$
1,176,092

 
$
1,064,962

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gross profit
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Itron North America
$
96,958

 
$
100,972

 
$
191,680

 
$
179,131

Itron International
94,125

 
73,084

 
183,513

 
151,989

Total Company
$
191,083

 
$
174,056

 
$
375,193

 
$
331,120

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income (loss)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Itron North America
$
42,739

 
$
55,384

 
$
86,532

 
$
87,420

Itron International
16,483

 
5,017

 
32,711

 
15,454

Corporate unallocated
(11,137
)
 
(10,392
)
 
(21,069
)
 
(21,246
)
Total Company
48,085

 
50,009

 
98,174

 
81,628

Total other income (expense)
(13,729
)
 
(14,279
)
 
(27,131
)
 
(29,627
)
Income before income taxes
$
34,356

 
$
35,730

 
$
71,043

 
$
52,001


No single customer represented more than 10% of total Company revenues for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, while one customer represented more than 10% of total Company revenues during the same periods in 2010. Two customers each accounted for more than 10% of Itron North America revenues for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, while three customers each accounted for more than 10% of Itron North America revenues for the same periods in 2010. No single customer represented more than 10% of Itron International revenues for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011 and 2010.

Revenues by region were as follows:
 
 
Three Months Ended June 30,
 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
 
(in thousands)
United States and Canada
$
285,931

 
$
299,502

 
$
560,393

 
$
538,502

Europe
228,354

 
192,864

 
431,185

 
388,348

Other
98,116

 
74,973

 
184,514

 
138,112

Total revenues
$
612,401

 
$
567,339

 
$
1,176,092

 
$
1,064,962



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Table of Contents

Depreciation and amortization expense associated with our segments was as follows:
 
 
Three Months Ended June 30,
 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
 
(in thousands)
Itron North America
$
11,176

 
$
11,441

 
$
22,347

 
$
22,728

Itron International
21,591

 
20,352

 
41,950

 
42,342

Corporate Unallocated
1

 

 
2

 
1

Total Company
$
32,768

 
$
31,793

 
$
64,299

 
$
65,071


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Table of Contents


Note 15:    Consolidating Financial Information

Our convertible notes, issued by Itron, Inc., are guaranteed by one U.S. subsidiary, which is 100% owned. The guaranty by our U.S. subsidiary is joint and several, full, complete, and unconditional. There are currently no restrictions on the ability of the subsidiary guarantor to transfer funds to the parent company.

Consolidating Statement of Operations
Three Months Ended June 30, 2011
 
Parent
 
Guarantor
Subsidiary
 
Combined
Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
 
(in thousands)
Revenues
$
289,090

 
$

 
$
345,332

 
$
(22,021
)
 
$
612,401

Cost of revenues
194,728

 

 
248,611

 
(22,021
)
 
421,318

Gross profit
94,362

 

 
96,721

 

 
191,083

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating expenses
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sales and marketing
18,195

 

 
30,650

 

 
48,845

Product development
26,673

 

 
14,258

 

 
40,931

General and administrative
13,529

 

 
21,589

 

 
35,118

Amortization of intangible assets
3,512

 

 
12,685

 

 
16,197

Restructuring
501

 

 
1,406

 

 
1,907

Total operating expenses
62,410

 

 
80,588

 

 
142,998

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income
31,952

 

 
16,133

 

 
48,085

Other income (expense)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest income
57

 
842

 
134

 
(865
)
 
168

Interest expense
(12,178
)
 

 
(107
)
 
865

 
(11,420
)
Other income (expense), net
(1,436
)
 

 
(1,041
)
 

 
(2,477
)
Total other income (expense)
(13,557
)
 
842

 
(1,014
)
 

 
(13,729
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income before income taxes
18,395

 
842

 
15,119

 

 
34,356

Income tax (provision) benefit
(2,823
)
 

 
2,903

 

 
80

Equity in earnings of guarantor and non-guarantor subsidiaries, net
18,864

 

 

 
(18,864
)
 

Net income
$
34,436

 
$
842

 
$
18,022

 
$
(18,864
)
 
$
34,436



19

Table of Contents

Consolidating Statement of Operations
Three Months Ended June 30, 2010
 
 
Parent
 
Guarantor
Subsidiary
 
Combined
Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
 
(in thousands)
Revenues
$
298,380

 
$

 
$
283,082

 
$
(14,123
)
 
$
567,339

Cost of revenues
199,882

 

 
207,524

 
(14,123
)
 
393,283

Gross profit
98,498

 

 
75,558

 

 
174,056

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating expenses
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sales and marketing
15,706

 

 
25,268

 

 
40,974

Product development
21,051

 

 
11,971

 

 
33,022

General and administrative
13,467

 

 
19,818

 

 
33,285

Amortization of intangible assets
4,086

 

 
12,680

 

 
16,766

Total operating expenses
54,310

 

 
69,737

 

 
124,047

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income
44,188

 

 
5,821

 

 
50,009

Other income (expense)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest income
116

 
776

 
87

 
(868
)
 
111

Interest expense
(14,621
)
 

 
(212
)
 
868

 
(13,965
)
Other income (expense), net
4,002

 

 
(4,427
)
 

 
(425
)
Total other income (expense)
(10,503
)
 
776

 
(4,552
)
 

 
(14,279
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income before income taxes
33,685

 
776

 
1,269

 

 
35,730

Income tax benefit (provision)
(12,539
)
 

 
2,120

 

 
(10,419
)
Equity in earnings of guarantor and non-guarantor subsidiaries, net
4,165

 

 

 
(4,165
)
 

Net income
$
25,311

 
$
776

 
$
3,389

 
$
(4,165
)
 
$
25,311



20

Table of Contents

Consolidating Statement of Operations
Six Months Ended June 30, 2011
 
 
Parent
 
Guarantor
Subsidiary
 
Combined
Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
 
(in thousands)
Revenues
$
562,653

 
$

 
$
653,623

 
$
(40,184
)
 
$
1,176,092

Cost of revenues
377,003

 

 
464,080

 
(40,184
)
 
800,899

Gross profit
185,650

 

 
189,543

 

 
375,193

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating expenses
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sales and marketing
35,210

 

 
58,283

 

 
93,493

Product development
51,864

 

 
29,512

 

 
81,376

General and administrative
26,474

 

 
41,975

 

 
68,449

Amortization of intangible assets
7,024

 

 
24,770

 

 
31,794

Restructuring
501

 

 
1,406

 

 
1,907

Total operating expenses
121,073

 

 
155,946

 

 
277,019

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income
64,577

 

 
33,597

 

 
98,174

Other income (expense)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest income
14,902

 
1,668

 
411

 
(16,505
)
 
476

Interest expense
(24,997
)
 

 
(15,042
)
 
16,505

 
(23,534
)
Other income (expense), net
(2,603
)
 

 
(1,470
)
 

 
(4,073
)
Total other income (expense)
(12,698
)
 
1,668

 
(16,101
)
 

 
(27,131
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income before income taxes
51,879

 
1,668

 
17,496

 

 
71,043

Income tax (provision) benefit
(14,190
)
 

 
4,703

 

 
(9,487
)
Equity in earnings of guarantor and non-guarantor subsidiaries, net
23,867

 

 

 
(23,867
)
 

Net income
$
61,556

 
$
1,668

 
$
22,199

 
$
(23,867
)
 
$
61,556


21

Table of Contents


Consolidating Statement of Operations
Six Months Ended June 30, 2010
 
 
Parent
 
Guarantor
Subsidiary
 
Combined
Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
 
(in thousands)
Revenues
$
539,253

 
$

 
$
551,911

 
$
(26,202
)
 
$
1,064,962

Cost of revenues
364,772

 

 
395,272

 
(26,202
)
 
733,842

Gross profit
174,481

 

 
156,639

 

 
331,120

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating expenses
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sales and marketing
31,273

 

 
51,238

 

 
82,511

Product development
42,229

 

 
23,833

 

 
66,062

General and administrative
27,250

 

 
39,092

 

 
66,342

Amortization of intangible assets
8,172

 

 
26,405

 

 
34,577

Total operating expenses
108,924

 

 
140,568

 

 
249,492

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income
65,557

 

 
16,071

 

 
81,628

Other income (expense)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest income
475

 
1,534

 
226

 
(1,957
)
 
278

Interest expense
(30,201
)
 

 
(644
)
 
1,957

 
(28,888
)
Other income (expense), net
2,973

 

 
(3,990
)
 

 
(1,017
)
Total other income (expense)
(26,753
)
 
1,534

 
(4,408
)
 

 
(29,627
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income before income taxes
38,804

 
1,534

 
11,663

 

 
52,001

Income tax (provision) benefit
(2,792
)
 

 
1,352

 

 
(1,440
)
Equity in earnings of guarantor and non-guarantor subsidiaries, net
14,549

 

 

 
(14,549
)
 

Net income
$
50,561

 
$
1,534

 
$
13,015

 
$
(14,549
)
 
$
50,561





22

Table of Contents

Consolidating Balance Sheet
June 30, 2011
 
 
Parent
 
Guarantor
Subsidiary
 
Combined
Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
 
(in thousands)
ASSETS
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Current assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
79,037

 
$

 
$
89,247

 
$

 
$
168,284

Accounts receivable, net
117,090

 

 
260,745

 

 
377,835

Intercompany accounts receivable
11,599

 

 
8,375

 
(19,974
)
 

Inventories
111,702

 

 
142,341

 
(964
)
 
253,079

Deferred tax assets current, net
37,450

 

 
17,695

 

 
55,145

Other current assets
25,101

 

 
81,079

 
(1,684
)
 
104,496

Intercompany other
2,088

 

 

 
(2,088
)
 

Total current assets
384,067

 

 
599,482

 
(24,710
)
 
958,839

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property, plant, and equipment, net
116,725

 

 
184,733

 

 
301,458

Deferred tax assets noncurrent, net
(19,705
)
 

 
32,419

 

 
12,714

Other long-term assets
48,220

 

 
20,747

 

 
68,967

Intangible assets, net
34,804

 

 
258,126

 

 
292,930

Goodwill
184,749

 

 
1,127,022

 

 
1,311,771

Investment in subsidiaries
320,053

 

 

 
(320,053
)
 

Intercompany notes receivable
1,397,260

 
103,085

 

 
(1,500,345
)
 

Total assets
$
2,466,173

 
$
103,085

 
$
2,222,529

 
$
(1,845,108
)
 
$
2,946,679

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Current liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Accounts payable
$
82,347

 
$

 
$
186,115

 
$

 
$
268,462

Other current liabilities
6,648

 

 
34,982

 

 
41,630

Intercompany accounts payable
8,375

 

 
11,599

 
(19,974
)
 

Wages and benefits payable
35,475

 

 
59,380

 

 
94,855

Taxes payable
4,537

 

 
23,439

 

 
27,976

Current portion of debt
234,449

 

 

 

 
234,449

Current portion of warranty
10,737

 

 
19,262

 

 
29,999

Unearned revenue
27,779

 

 
21,943

 

 
49,722

Short-term intercompany advances

 

 
2,088

 
(2,088
)
 

Total current liabilities
410,347

 

 
358,808

 
(22,062
)
 
747,093

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Long-term debt
341,121

 

 

 

 
341,121

Long-term warranty
11,767

 

 
21,072

 

 
32,839

Pension plan benefits

 

 
69,675

 

 
69,675

Intercompany notes payable
103,085

 

 
1,397,260

 
(1,500,345
)
 

Deferred tax liabilities noncurrent, net
(44,218
)
 

 
95,757

 

 
51,539

Other long-term obligations
26,601

 

 
60,341

 

 
86,942

Total liabilities
848,703

 

 
2,002,913

 
(1,522,407
)
 
1,329,209

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Shareholders’ equity
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Preferred stock

 

 

 

 

Common stock
1,339,504

 
97,377

 
101,192

 
(198,569
)
 
1,339,504

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net
81,390

 
(7,787
)
 
50,861

 
(43,074
)
 
81,390

Retained earnings
196,576

 
13,495

 
67,563

 
(81,058
)
 
196,576

Total shareholders’ equity
1,617,470

 
103,085

 
219,616

 
(322,701
)
 
1,617,470

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
$
2,466,173

 
$
103,085

 
$
2,222,529

 
$
(1,845,108
)
 
$
2,946,679



23

Table of Contents

Consolidating Balance Sheet
December 31, 2010
 
Parent
 
Guarantor
Subsidiary
 
Combined
Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
 
(in thousands)
ASSETS
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Current assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
19,146

 
$

 
$
150,331

 
$

 
$
169,477

Accounts receivable, net
163,758

 

 
207,904

 

 
371,662

Intercompany accounts receivable
10,106

 

 
3,675

 
(13,781
)
 

Inventories
99,846

 

 
109,208

 
(897
)
 
208,157

Deferred tax assets current, net
40,344

 

 
15,007

 

 
55,351

Other current assets
23,962

 

 
53,608

 

 
77,570

Intercompany other
1,997

 

 

 
(1,997
)
 

Total current assets
359,159

 

 
539,733

 
(16,675
)
 
882,217

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property, plant, and equipment, net
115,499

 

 
183,743

 

 
299,242

Deferred tax assets noncurrent, net
7,684

 

 
27,366

 

 
35,050

Other long-term assets
14,134

 

 
14,108

 

 
28,242

Intangible assets, net
41,828

 

 
249,842

 

 
291,670

Goodwill
184,750

 

 
1,024,626

 

 
1,209,376

Investment in subsidiaries
324,104

 

 

 
(324,104
)
 

Intercompany notes receivable
1,283,139

 
101,418

 

 
(1,384,557
)
 

Total assets
$
2,330,297

 
$
101,418

 
$
2,039,418

 
$
(1,725,336
)
 
$
2,745,797

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Current liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Accounts payable
$
75,027

 
$

 
$
166,922

 
$

 
$
241,949

Other current liabilities
12,223

 

 
37,467

 

 
49,690

Intercompany accounts payable
3,675

 

 
10,106

 
(13,781
)
 

Wages and benefits payable
54,804

 

 
55,675

 

 
110,479

Taxes payable
3,368

 

 
16,357

 

 
19,725

Current portion of debt
228,721

 

 

 

 
228,721

Current portion of warranty
8,813

 

 
16,099

 

 
24,912

Unearned revenue
21,926

 

 
6,332

 

 
28,258

Short-term intercompany advances

 

 
1,997

 
(1,997
)
 

Total current liabilities
408,557

 

 
310,955

 
(15,778
)
 
703,734

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Long-term debt
382,220

 

 

 

 
382,220

Long-term warranty
13,721

 

 
12,650

 

 
26,371

Pension plan benefit liability

 

 
61,450

 

 
61,450

Intercompany notes payable
101,418

 

 
1,283,139

 
(1,384,557
)
 

Deferred tax liabilities noncurrent, net
(38,400
)
 

 
92,812

 

 
54,412

Other long-term obligations
34,486

 

 
54,829

 

 
89,315

Total liabilities
902,002

 

 
1,815,835

 
(1,400,335
)
 
1,317,502

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Shareholders’ equity
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Preferred stock

 

 

 

 

Common stock
1,328,249

 
97,377

 
136,441

 
(233,818
)
 
1,328,249

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net
(34,974
)
 
(7,786
)
 
41,778

 
(33,992
)
 
(34,974
)
Retained earnings
135,020

 
11,827

 
45,364

 
(57,191
)
 
135,020

Total shareholders’ equity
1,428,295

 
101,418

 
223,583

 
(325,001
)
 
1,428,295

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
$
2,330,297

 
$
101,418

 
$
2,039,418

 
$
(1,725,336
)
 
$
2,745,797



24

Table of Contents

Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
Six Months Ended June 30, 2011
 
 
Parent
 
Guarantor
Subsidiary
 
Combined
Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
 
 
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
 
Operating activities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income
$
61,556

 
$
1,668

 
$
22,199

 
$
(23,867
)
 
$
61,556

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization
22,314

 

 
41,985

 

 
64,299

Stock-based compensation
9,518

 

 

 

 
9,518

Amortization of prepaid debt fees
2,265

 

 

 

 
2,265

Amortization of convertible debt discount
5,336

 

 

 

 
5,336

Deferred taxes, net
17,948

 

 
(11,867
)
 

 
6,081

Equity in losses of guarantor and non-guarantor subsidiaries, net
(23,867
)
 

 

 
23,867

 

Other adjustments, net
(209
)
 

 
494

 

 
285

Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Accounts receivable
22,209

 

 
(34,315
)
 

 
(12,106
)
Inventories
(11,789
)
 

 
(24,879
)
 

 
(36,668
)
   Other current assets
750

 

 
(22,018
)
 

 
(21,268
)
Other long-term assets
(11,410
)
 

 
(11,583
)
 

 
(22,993
)
Accounts payables, other current liabilities, and taxes payable
4,585

 

 
11,938

 

 
16,523

Wages and benefits payable
(19,329
)
 

 
(2,202
)
 

 
(21,531
)
Unearned revenue
9,875

 

 
14,284

 

 
24,159

Warranty
(30
)
 

 
9,540

 

 
9,510

Intercompany transactions, net
3,207

 

 
(3,207
)
 

 

Other operating, net
(1,159
)
 

 
3,885

 

 
2,726

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
91,770

 
1,668

 
(5,746
)
 

 
87,692

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Investing activities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Acquisitions of property, plant, and equipment
(14,579
)
 

 
(14,133
)
 

 
(28,712
)
Business acquisition, net of cash equivalents acquired

 

 
(14,635
)
 

 
(14,635
)
Current intercompany notes, net
106

 
(1,668
)
 

 
1,562

 

Other investing, net
34,541

 

 
(34,028
)
 

 
513

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
20,068

 
(1,668
)
 
(62,796
)
 
1,562

 
(42,834
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Financing activities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Payments on debt
(55,630
)
 

 

 

 
(55,630
)
Issuance of common stock
2,553

 

 

 

 
2,553

Current intercompany notes, net
1,668

 

 
(106
)
 
(1,562
)
 

Other financing, net
(538
)
 

 
219

 

 
(319
)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
(51,947
)
 

 
113

 
(1,562
)
 
(53,396
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

 

 
7,345

 

 
7,345

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
59,891

 

 
(61,084
)
 

 
(1,193
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
19,146

 

 
150,331

 

 
169,477

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$
79,037

 
$

 
$
89,247

 
$

 
$
168,284

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Non-cash transactions:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property, plant, and equipment purchased but not yet paid, net
$
2,114

 
$

 
$
(1,136
)
 
$

 
$
978

Fair value of contingent and deferred consideration payable for business acquisition

 

 
5,108

 

 
5,108

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash paid during the period for:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income taxes, net
$
(1,028
)
 
$

 
$
7,870

 
$

 
$
6,842

Interest, net of amounts capitalized
15,719

 

 
208

 

 
15,927



25

Table of Contents

Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
Six Months Ended June 30, 2010
 
 
Parent
 
Guarantor
Subsidiary
 
Combined
Non-guarantor
Subsidiaries
 
Eliminations
 
Consolidated
 
 
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
 
Operating activities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income
$
50,561

 
$
1,534

 
$
13,015

 
$
(14,549
)
 
$
50,561

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization
22,655

 

 
42,416

 

 
65,071

Stock-based compensation
9,121

 

 

 

 
9,121

Amortization of prepaid debt fees
2,762

 

 

 

 
2,762

Amortization of convertible debt discount
4,957

 

 

 

 
4,957

Deferred income taxes, net
2,639

 

 
(10,771
)
 

 
(8,132
)
Equity in losses of guarantor and non-guarantor subsidiaries, net
(14,549
)
 

 

 
14,549

 

Other adjustments, net
1,972

 

 
1,334

 

 
3,306

Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Accounts receivable
(33,080
)
 

 
(19,044
)
 

 
(52,124
)
Inventories
(33,896
)
 

 
(7,034
)
 

 
(40,930
)
Other current assets
6,504

 

 
1,871

 

 
8,375

Other long-term assets
1,215

 

 
(1,978
)
 

 
(763
)
Accounts payables, other current liabilities, and taxes payable
22,873

 

 
19,590

 

 
42,463

Wages and benefits payable
16,928

 

 
2,720

 

 
19,648

Unearned revenue
(330
)
 

 
2,695

 

 
2,365

Warranty
3,692

 

 
10,663

 

 
14,355

Intercompany transactions, net
2,784

 

 
(2,784
)
 

 

Other operating, net
68

 

 
(4,017
)
 

 
(3,949
)
Net cash provided by operating activities
66,876

 
1,534

 
48,676

 

 
117,086

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Investing activities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Acquisitions of property, plant, and equipment
(15,490
)
 

 
(12,226
)
 

 
(27,716
)
Current intercompany notes, net
27,259

 
(1,534
)
 
5,000

 
(30,725
)
 

Other investing, net
2,572

 

 
1,923

 

 
4,495

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
14,341

 
(1,534
)
 
(5,303
)
 
(30,725
)
 
(23,221
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Financing activities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Payments on debt
(73,881
)
 

 

 

 
(73,881
)
Issuance of common stock
6,812

 

 

 

 
6,812

Current intercompany notes, net
(3,466
)
 

 
(27,259
)
 
30,725

 

Other financing, net
(1,340
)
 

 
(897
)
 

 
(2,237
)
Net cash used in financing activities
(71,875
)
 

 
(28,156
)
 
30,725

 
(69,306
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

 

 
(9,081
)
 

 
(9,081
)
Increase in cash and cash equivalents
9,342

 

 
6,136

 

 
15,478

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
16,385

 

 
105,508

 

 
121,893

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$
25,727

 
$

 
$
111,644

 
$

 
$
137,371

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Non-cash transactions:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Property, plant, and equipment purchased but not yet paid, net
$
(245
)
 
$

 
$
(3,246
)
 
$

 
$
(3,491
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash paid during the period for:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income taxes, net
$
9,191

 
$

 
$
164

 
$

 
$
9,355

Interest, net of amounts capitalized
20,958

 

 
220

 

 
21,178

 

26

Table of Contents


Note 16:    Subsequent Event

On August 1, 2011, in accordance with the terms of the convertible senior subordinated notes, at the option of the holders we repurchased $184.8 million of the convertible notes at their principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest. The convertible notes were repurchased using a combination of cash on hand and borrowings under our multicurrency revolving line of credit.

27

Table of Contents


ITEM 2:
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
In this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, the terms “we,” “us,” “our,” “Itron,” and the “Company” refer to Itron, Inc.

The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and notes included in this report and with our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on February 25, 2011.

Documents we provide to the SEC are available free of charge under the Investors section of our website at www.itron.com as soon as practicable after they are filed with or furnished to the SEC. In addition, these documents are available at the SEC’s website (http://www.sec.gov) and at the SEC’s Headquarters at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, DC 20549, or by calling 1-800-SEC-0330.

Certain Forward-Looking Statements

This document contains forward-looking statements concerning our operations, financial performance, revenues, earnings growth, liquidity, and other items. This document reflects our current plans and expectations and is based on information currently available as of the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. When we use the words “expect,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “plan,” “project,” “estimate,” “future,” “objective,” “may,” “will,” “will continue,” and similar expressions, they are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements rely on a number of assumptions and estimates. These assumptions and estimates could be inaccurate and cause our actual results to vary materially from expected results. Risks and uncertainties include 1) the rate and timing of customer demand for our products, 2) rescheduling or cancellations of current customer orders and commitments, 3) reliance on certain key vendors and components, 4) competition, 5) changes in estimated liabilities for product warranties and/or litigation, 6) our dependence on customers’ acceptance of new products and their performance, 7) changes in domestic and international laws and regulations, 8) future business combinations, 9) changes in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates, 10) international business risks, 11) our own and our customers' or suppliers' access to and cost of capital, and 12) other factors. You should not solely rely on these forward-looking statements as they are only valid as of the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. We do not have any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement in this document. For a more complete description of these and other risks, refer to Item 1A: “Risk Factors” included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2010, which was filed with the SEC on February 25, 2011, as well as Part II: Other Information Item 1A "Risk Factors" included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

Results of Operations

We derive the majority of our revenues from sales of products and services to utilities. Our products and services include hardware, software, managed services, and consulting. Cost of revenues includes materials, labor, overhead, warranty expense, and distribution and documentation costs for software.

On March 14, 2011, we announced a global reorganization in which the Company will be managed under two operating segments, Energy and Water. Although certain management positions of the Company’s two new operating segments have been identified, a transition to the new organizational structure, including changes to operations and financial and operational management systems will continue through the remainder of 2011. Throughout 2011, management and external financial reporting will be based on the current geographic operating segments, Itron North America and Itron International, as the new segment information will not be available until changes to the new operations have occurred and new systems and processes are deployed. Financial reporting of the Energy and Water operating segments is expected to commence in the first quarter of 2012.

Overview

Revenues for the three months ended June 30, 2011 increased 8% to $612 million, and revenues for the six months ended June 30, 2011 increased 10% to $1.2 billion, compared with the same periods last year. The revenue growth was driven by Itron International with 22% and 17% revenue increases for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, compared with the same periods last year. Meter and communication module volumes increased 2% and 4% for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, compared with the same periods last year. Gross margin was 50 and 80 basis points higher for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, compared with the same periods last year. Diluted earnings per share were $0.84 and $1.50 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, compared with $0.61 and $1.23 for the same periods last year. Total backlog was $1.6 billion and twelve-month backlog was $1.0 billion at June 30, 2011.

As part of our global segment reorganization that was announced in March 2011, we are performing a comprehensive review of our cost structure. We are also completing a feasibility study of our manufacturing footprint to determine how to consolidate our

28

Table of Contents

manufacturing operations to reduce costs and improve efficiency. Once these plans are formalized and approved by management, which we expect to be complete in October 2011, we will provide estimated charges by category. Restructuring costs of $1.9 million were recorded in the second quarter of 2011 primarily associated with severance for positions that were eliminated in the second quarter.

The three and six months ended June 30, 2011 included $7.8 million and $7.3 million of net discrete tax benefits due to the reduction of tax reserves for certain international subsidiaries, compared with minimal discrete tax benefits in the three months ended June 30, 2010 and approximately $11 million of discrete tax benefits related to the receipt of a clean energy manufacturing tax credit and reductions of tax reserves for certain international subsidiaries in the six months ended June 30, 2010.

Term debt repayments during the six months ended June 30, 2011 were $55.6 million, bringing the total debt outstanding to $575.6 million at June 30, 2011.

Total Company Revenues, Gross Profit and Margin, and Unit Shipments
 
 
Three Months Ended June 30,
 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
% Change
 
2011
 
2010
 
% Change
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
Revenues
$
612,401

 
$
567,339

 
8%
 
$
1,176,092

 
$
1,064,962

 
10%
Gross Profit
$
191,083

 
$
174,056

 
10%
 
$
375,193

 
$
331,120

 
13%
Gross Margin
31.2
%
 
30.7
%
 
 
 
31.9
%
 
31.1
%
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended June 30,
 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
 
(in thousands)
Revenues by region
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
United States and Canada
$
285,931

 
$
299,502

 
$
560,393

 
$
538,502

Europe
228,354

 
192,864

 
431,185

 
388,348

Other
98,116

 
74,973

 
184,514

 
138,112

Total revenues
$
612,401

 
$
567,339

 
$
1,176,092

 
$
1,064,962


Revenues
Revenues increased $45.1 million and $111.1 million, or 8% and 10%, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, compared with the same periods last year. The net translation effect of our operations denominated in foreign currencies to the U.S. dollar accounted for $35.8 million and $40.0 million of the increase in revenues for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, compared with the same periods last year. A more detailed analysis of these fluctuations is provided in Operating Segment Results.

No single customer represented more than 10% of total revenues for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, and one customer represented more than 10% of total revenues for the three and six months ended June 30, 2010. Our 10 largest customers accounted for 30% and 31% of total revenues for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, and 34% and 30% for the three and six months ended June 30, 2010, respectively.

Gross Margins
Gross margin was 31.2% and 31.9% for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, compared with 30.7% and 31.1% for the same periods last year due to improved Itron International margins and their relative contribution. A more detailed analysis of these fluctuations is provided in Operating Segment Results.

Meter and Module Summary
Meters can be broken down into three categories:
Standard metering – no built-in remote reading communication capability
Advanced metering – one-way communication of meter data
Smart metering – two-way communication including remote meter configuration and upgrade (consisting primarily of our OpenWay® technology)

In addition, advanced and smart meter communication modules can be sold separately from the meter. Depending on customers’ preferences, we also incorporate other vendors’ communication technology in our meters. A summary of our meter and

29

Table of Contents

communication module shipments is as follows:

 
Three Months Ended
June 30,
 
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
 
(units in thousands)
Total meters (standard, advanced, and smart)
 
 
 
Itron North America
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Electricity
1,570

 
1,740

 
3,090

 
3,190

Gas
140

 
160

 
280

 
260

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Itron International
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Electricity
1,870

 
1,930

 
3,490

 
3,570

Gas
1,110

 
1,020

 
2,050

 
2,000

Water
2,420

 
2,380

 
4,960

 
4,670

Total meters
7,110

 
7,230

 
13,870

 
13,690

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Additional meter information (Total Company)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Advanced meters
1,130

 
1,050

 
2,030

 
1,720

Smart meters
910

 
1,050

 
1,900

 
1,860

Standalone advanced and smart communication modules
1,850

 
1,600

 
3,280

 
2,790

Advanced and smart meters and communication modules
3,890

 
3,700

 
7,210

 
6,370

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Meters with other vendors’ advanced or smart communication technology
120

 
70

 
230

 
260


Operating Segment Results

For a description of our operating segments, refer to Item 1: “Financial Statements Note 14: Segment Information”.
 
 
Three Months Ended June 30,
 
 
 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
 
 
2011
 
2010
 
% Change
 
 
 
2011
 
2010
 
% Change
 
 
Segment Revenues
(in thousands)
 
 
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
 
Itron North America
$
288,224

 
$
301,143

 
(4)%
 
 
 
$
565,206

 
$
542,702

 
4%
 
 
Itron International
324,177

 
266,196

 
22%
 
 
 
610,886

 
522,260

 
17%
 
 
Total revenues
$
612,401

 
$
567,339

 
8%
 
 
 
$
1,176,092

 
$
1,064,962

 
10%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended June 30,
 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
 
Gross
Profit
 
Gross
Margin
 
Gross
Profit
 
Gross
Margin
 
Gross
Profit
 
Gross
Margin
 
Gross
Profit
 
Gross
Margin
Segment Gross Profit and Margin
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
Itron North America
$
96,958

 
33.6%
 
$
100,972

 
33.5%
 
$
191,680

 
33.9%
 
$
179,131

 
33.0%
Itron International
94,125

 
29.0%
 
73,084

 
27.5%
 
183,513

 
30.0%
 
151,989

 
29.1%
Total gross profit and margin
$
191,083

 
31.2%
 
$
174,056

 
30.7%
 
$
375,193

 
31.9%
 
$
331,120

 
31.1%
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended June 30,
 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
 
Operating
Income (Loss)
 
Operating
Margin
 
Operating
Income (Loss)
 
Operating
Margin
 
Operating
Income (Loss)
 
Operating
Margin
 
Operating
Income (Loss)
 
Operating
Margin
Segment Operating Income (Loss) and Operating Margin
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
Itron North America
$
42,739

 
15%
 
$
55,384

 
18%
 
$
86,532

 
15%
 
$
87,420

 
16%
Itron International
16,483

 
5%
 
5,017

 
2%
 
32,711

 
5%
 
15,454

 
3%
Corporate unallocated
(11,137
)
 
 
 
(10,392
)
 
 
 
(21,069
)
 
 
 
(21,246
)
 
 
Total Company
$
48,085

 
8%
 
$
50,009

 
9%
 
$
98,174

 
8%
 
$
81,628

 
8%


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Itron North America:

Revenues - Three months ended June 30, 2011 vs. Three months ended June 30, 2010
Revenues decreased $12.9 million, or 4%, for the three months ended June 30, 2011, compared with the same period last year. The decrease in revenues was primarily due to a 23% decline in OpenWay meter and communication module volumes, which is the result of the timing of certain projects nearing completion and others commencing rollouts. OpenWay products and services accounted for 39% of operating segment revenues for the three months ended June 30, 2011, compared with 46% for the same period last year. Non-OpenWay product and service revenues, including smart gas communication modules, increased 11% for the three months ended June 30, 2011, compared with the same period last year.

Two customers each represented more than 10% of Itron North America revenues in the three months ended June 30, 2011, and three customers each represented more than 10% of Itron North America revenues in the three months ended June 30, 2010.

Revenues - Six months ended June 30, 2011 vs. Six months ended June 30, 2010
Revenues increased $22.5 million, or 4%, for the six months ended June 30, 2011, compared with the same period last year. The increase in revenues was primarily due to a 11% increase in non-OpenWay product and service revenues, including smart gas communication modules.

Two customers each represented more than 10% of Itron North America revenues in the six months ended June 30, 2011, and three customers each represented more than 10% of Itron North America revenues in the six months ended June 30, 2010.

Gross Margin - Three months ended June 30, 2011 vs. Three months ended June 30, 2010
Gross margin was 33.6% for the three months ended June 30, 2011, compared with gross margin of 33.5% for the same period last year. Increased revenues and margins for non-OpenWay smart gas communication modules and non-OpenWay services were offset by higher OpenWay project costs.

Gross Margin - Six months ended June 30, 2011 vs. Six months ended June 30, 2010
Gross margin increased to 33.9% for the six months ended June 30, 2011, compared with gross margin of 33.0% for the same period last year. Increased revenues and margins for smart gas communication modules and non-OpenWay services were partially offset by higher OpenWay project costs.

Operating Expenses - Three months ended June 30, 2011 vs. Three months ended June 30, 2010
Itron North America operating expenses increased $8.6 million, or 19%, for the three months ended June 30, 2011, compared with the same period last year, primarily due to increased product development costs for new and enhanced products, as well as higher marketing expense associated with the pursuit of smart grid opportunities. These higher costs were partially offset by a scheduled decrease in amortization of intangible assets. Operating expenses as a percentage of revenues were 19% for the three months ended June 30, 2011, compared with 15% for the same period last year.

Operating Expenses - Six months ended June 30, 2011 vs. Six months ended June 30, 2010
Itron North America operating expenses increased $13.4 million, or 15%, for the six months ended June 30, 2011, compared with the same period last year, primarily due to increased product development costs for new and enhanced products, as well as higher marketing expense associated with the pursuit of smart grid opportunities. These higher costs were partially offset by a scheduled decrease in amortization of intangible assets. Operating expenses as a percentage of revenues were 19% for the six months ended June 30, 2011, compared with 17% for the same period last year.

Itron International:

Itron International business line revenues were as follows:
 
 
Three Months Ended June 30,
 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
 
(in thousands)
Electricity
$
117,549

 
$
104,066

 
$
215,235

 
$
199,727

Water
106,709

 
81,564

 
213,196

 
173,881

Gas
99,919

 
80,566

 
182,455

 
148,652

Itron International revenues
$
324,177

 
$
266,196

 
$
610,886

 
$
522,260



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Revenues - Three months ended June 30, 2011 vs. Three months ended June 30, 2010
Revenues increased $58.0 million, or 22%, for the three months ended June 30, 2011, compared with the same period last year. The net translation effect of our operations denominated in foreign currencies to the U.S. dollar accounted for $34.4 million of the increase in revenues. Meter and communication module volumes increased 3% for the three months ended June 30, 2011, compared with the same period last year primarily due to increased gas and water advanced metering projects. Itron International experiences variability in revenues as a result of the diverse economies in which it operates and sells its products.

No single customer represented more than 10% of Itron International revenues in the three months ended June 30, 2011 and 2010.

Revenues - Six months ended June 30, 2011 vs. Six months ended June 30, 2010
Revenues increased $88.6 million, or 17%, for the six months ended June 30, 2011, compared with the same period last year. The net translation effect of our operations denominated in foreign currencies to the U.S. dollar accounted for $37.4 million of the increase in revenues. Meter and communication module volumes increased 5% for the six months ended June 30, 2011, compared with the same period last year primarily due to increased gas and water advanced metering projects.

No single customer represented more than 10% of Itron International revenues in the six months ended June 30, 2011 and 2010.

Gross Margin - Three months ended June 30, 2011 vs. Three months ended June 30, 2010
Itron International gross margin increased to 29.0% for the three months ended June 30, 2011, compared with gross margin of 27.5% for the same period last year. Gross margin for the three months ended June 30, 2010 was impacted by warranty expense of $9.6 million associated with claims in Sweden that meters were adversely affected by high frequency pollution from third party devices in the home environment.

Electricity margins were favorably impacted by lower warranty expense, and unfavorably impacted primarily by lower service margin associated with implementation of complex systems. The second quarter of 2010 included $9.6 million of warranty expense associated with claims in Sweden.
Gas margins increased due to a favorable product mix of higher margin Commercial and Industrial (C&I) products.
Water margins decreased primarily due to higher material costs, including brass.

Gross Margin - Six months ended June 30, 2011 vs. Six months ended June 30, 2010
Itron International gross margin increased to 30.0% for the six months ended June 30, 2011, compared with gross margin of 29.1% for the same period last year. Gross margin for the six months ended June 30, 2010 was impacted by warranty expense of $9.6 million associated with claims in Sweden described above.

Electricity margins were impacted favorably by lower warranty expense. Warranty expense in 2011 included an $8.6 million recovery from a third party associated with claims in Sweden and a $7.7 million charge related to certain products in Brazil. The second quarter of 2010 included $9.6 million of warranty expense associated with claims in Sweden.
Gas margins increased due to a favorable product mix of higher margin C&I products.
Water margins decreased primarily due to higher material costs, including brass.

Operating Expenses - Three months ended June 30, 2011 vs. Three months ended June 30, 2010
Itron International operating expenses increased $9.6 million, or 14%, for the three months ended June 30, 2011, compared with the same period last year. The net translation effect of foreign currency to the U.S. dollar accounted for $8.2 million of the increase in operating expenses. Restructuring charges of $1.4 million were recorded in the second quarter of 2011 primarily associated with severance for positions that were eliminated. Operating expenses as a percentage of revenues were 24% for the three months ended June 30, 2011, compared with 26% for the same period last year.
 
Operating Expenses - Six months ended June 30, 2011 vs. Six months ended June 30, 2010
Itron International operating expenses increased $14.3 million, or 10%, for the six months ended June 30, 2011, compared with the same period last year. The net translation effect of foreign currency to the U.S. dollar accounted for $8.3 million of the increase in operating expenses. The remaining increase was primarily due to higher sales and marketing expense associated with higher revenues and investment in product development related to smart metering. Restructuring charges of $1.4 million were recorded in the second quarter of 2011 primarily associated with severance for positions that were eliminated. Operating expenses as a percentage of revenues were 25% for the six months ended June 30, 2011, compared with 26% for the same period last year.

Corporate unallocated:

Operating expenses not directly associated with an operating segment are classified as “Corporate unallocated.” These expenses increased 7% to $11.1 million in the three months ended June 30, 2011, compared with the same period last year, primarily due

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to $500,000 in severance for positions that were eliminated. Corporate unallocated expenses remained relatively constant at $21.1 million in the six months ended June 30, 2011, compared with the same period last year.

Bookings and Backlog of Orders

Bookings for a reported period represent customer contracts and purchase orders received during the period that have met certain conditions, such as regulatory and/or contractual approval. Total backlog represents committed but undelivered contracts and purchase orders at period-end. Twelve-month backlog represents the portion of total backlog that we estimate will be recognized as revenue over the next 12 months. Backlog is not a complete measure of our future business as we have significant book-and-ship orders. Bookings and backlog may fluctuate significantly due to the timing of large project awards. In addition, annual or multi-year contracts are subject to rescheduling and cancellation by customers due to the long-term nature of the contracts. Beginning total backlog, plus bookings, minus revenues, will not equal ending total backlog due to miscellaneous contract adjustments, foreign currency fluctuations, and other factors.

Information on bookings and backlog is summarized as follows:
 
Quarter Ended
 
Quarterly
Bookings
 
Ending
Total
Backlog
 
Ending
12-Month
Backlog
 
 
(in millions)
June 30, 2011
 
$
483

 
$
1,622

 
$
1,049

March 31, 2011
 
681

 
1,747

 
989

December 31, 2010
 
581

 
1,620

 
913

September 30, 2010
 
528

 
1,663

 
958

June 30, 2010
 
806

 
1,691

 
1,017


Information on bookings by our operating segments is as follows:
 
Quarter Ended
 
Total Bookings
 
Itron North America
 
Itron International
 
 
(in millions)
June 30, 2011
 
$
483

 
$
148

 
$
335

March 31, 2011
 
681

 
379

 
302

December 31, 2010
 
581

 
301

 
280

September 30, 2010
 
528

 
272

 
256

June 30, 2010
 
806

 
517

 
289


When we sign project agreements to deploy our meter and communication systems, we include these contracts in bookings and backlog when regulatory approvals are received and/or contractual conditions are satisfied. For the quarter ended March 31, 2011, bookings and backlog included an OpenWay contract for $268 million with BC Hydro. For the quarter ended June 30, 2010, bookings and backlog included an OpenWay contract for $339 million with Detroit Edison.

Operating Expenses

The following table details our total operating expenses in dollars and as a percentage of revenues:
 
 
Three Months Ended June 30,
 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
2011
 
% of
Revenues
 
2010
 
% of
Revenues
 
2011
 
% of
Revenues
 
2010
 
% of
Revenues
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
Sales and marketing
$
48,845

 
8%
 
$
40,974

 
7%
 
$
93,493

 
8%
 
$
82,511

 
8%
Product development
40,931

 
7%
 
33,022

 
6%
 
81,376

 
7%
 
66,062

 
6%
General and administrative
35,118

 
6%
 
33,285

 
6%
 
68,449

 
6%
 
66,342

 
6%
Amortization of intangible assets
16,197

 
3%
 
16,766

 
3%
 
31,794

 
3%
 
34,577

 
3%
Restructuring
1,907

 
—%
 

 
—%
 
1,907

 
—%
 

 
—%
Total operating expenses
$
142,998

 
23%
 
$
124,047

 
22%
 
$
277,019

 
24%
 
$
249,492

 
23%

Operating expenses increased $19.0 million, or 15%, for the three months ended June 30, 2011 and $27.5 million, or 11%, for the

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six months ended June 30, 2011, compared with the same periods last year. The impact on operating expenses from translation of foreign currencies was $8.4 million and $8.7 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011. The net increase in operating expenses was primarily due to product development costs for new and enhanced products, higher marketing expense associated with the pursuit of smart grid opportunities, and increased sales commission expense associated with higher revenues. Restructuring charges of $1.9 million were accrued in the second quarter of 2011 primarily associated with severance forpositions that were eliminated.

Other Income (Expense)

The following table shows the components of other income (expense):
 
 
Three Months Ended June 30,
 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
2011
 
2010
 
(in thousands)
Interest income
$
168

 
$
111

 
$
476

 
$
278

Interest expense
(10,460
)
 
(12,455
)
 
(21,269
)
 
(26,126
)
Amortization of prepaid debt fees
(960
)
 
(1,510
)
 
(2,265
)
 
(2,762
)
Other income (expense), net
(2,477
)
 
(425
)
 
(4,073
)
 
(1,017
)
Total other income (expense)
$
(13,729
)
 
$
(14,279
)
 
$
(27,131
)
 
$
(29,627
)

Interest income: Interest income is generated from our cash and cash equivalents. Interest rates have continued to remain low.

Interest expense: Interest expense continues to decline each period as a result of our declining principal balance of debt outstanding. Total debt was $575.6 million and $610.9 million at June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively. Refer to Item 1: “Financial Statements Note 6: Debt” for additional details related to our long-term borrowings.

Amortization of prepaid debt fees: Amortization of prepaid debt fees for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011 was lower than the same periods last year due to lower repayments on our borrowings of $55.6 million and $73.9 million for the respective periods. When debt is repaid early, the related portion of unamortized prepaid debt fees is written off and included in interest expense.

Other income (expense), net: Other expenses, net, consist primarily of unrealized and realized foreign currency gains and losses due to balances denominated in a currency other than the reporting entity's functional currency and other non-operating income (expenses). Foreign currency losses, net of hedging, were $770,000 and $1.9 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, compared with net foreign currency gains of $450,000 and $670,000 in the same periods last year.

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Financial Condition

Cash Flow Information:
 
 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
2011
 
2010
 
(in thousands)
Operating activities
$
87,692

 
$
117,086

Investing activities
(42,834
)
 
(23,221
)
Financing activities
(53,396
)
 
(69,306
)
Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents
7,345

 
(9,081
)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
$
(1,193
)
 
$
15,478


Cash and cash equivalents was $168.3 million at June 30, 2011, compared with $169.5 million at December 31, 2010. The balance remained relatively constant as a result of increased working capital and offset by lower debt repayments and a minor business acquisition in 2011.

Operating activities
Cash provided by operating activities during the first half of 2011 was $29.4 million lower, compared with the same period in 2010, primarily due to the payment of accrued bonus and profit sharing expenses during the six months ended June 30, 2011 and an increase in raw materials and finished goods inventory.

Investing activities
Cash used in investing activities during the first half of 2011 was $19.6 million higher, compared with the same period in 2010. The acquisition of property, plant, and equipment was stable for the comparative period while other investing activities, such as a minor business acquisition, provided the increase in investing activities.

Financing activities
During the first half of 2011, we repaid $55.6 million in borrowings, compared with $73.9 million during the same period in 2010. Cash generated from the exercise of stock-based awards was $2.6 million for the first half of 2011, compared with $6.8 million during the same period in 2010.

Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents
The effect of exchange rates on the cash balances of currencies held in foreign denominations for the first half of 2011 was an increase of $7.3 million, compared with a decrease of $9.1 million for the same period in 2010.

Off-balance sheet arrangements
We have no off-balance sheet financing agreements or guarantees as defined by Item 303 of Regulation S-K at June 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010 that we believe are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on our financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.

Liquidity, Sources and Uses of Capital:
 
Our principal sources of liquidity are cash flows from operations, borrowings, and sales of common stock. Cash flows may fluctuate and are sensitive to many factors including changes in working capital and the timing and magnitude of capital expenditures and payments on debt. Working capital, which represents current assets less current liabilities, was $211.7 million at June 30, 2011, compared with $178.5 million at December 31, 2010.

On January 20, 2011, we increased our multicurrency revolving line of credit to $315 million. This expansion provides us with increased flexibility and liquidity for general corporate purposes. At June 30, 2011, there were no borrowings outstanding under the revolver, and $40.0 million was utilized by outstanding standby letters of credit.

On August 1, 2011, in accordance with the terms of the convertible senior subordinated notes, at the option of the holders we repurchased $184.8 million of the convertible notes at their principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest. The convertible notes were repurchased using a combination of cash on hand and borrowings under our multicurrency revolving line of credit. As a result of our repurchase of $184.8 million of the convertible notes as detailed above, we expect our tax payments to increase by

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$5 million to $7.5 million in 2011.

Our net deferred tax assets consist primarily of tax credits and net operating loss carryforwards. The utilization of some of the net operating loss carryforwards are limited by Internal Revenue Code Section 382. Based on current projections, excluding the impact of the purchase of $184.8 million of the convertible notes, we expect to pay approximately $1.9 million in U.S. federal and state taxes and $16.5 million in local and foreign taxes in 2011. See Item 1: “Financial Statements Note 10: Income Taxes” for a discussion of our tax provision (benefit) and unrecognized tax benefits.

For a description of the term loans under our credit facility and convertible senior subordinated notes, refer to Item 1: “Financial Statements Note 6: Debt”.

For a description of our letters of credit and performance bonds, and the amounts available for additional borrowings or letters of credit under our lines of credit, including the multicurrency revolving line of credit that is part of our credit facility, refer to Item 1: “Financial Statements Note 11: Commitments and Contingencies”.

For a description of our funded and unfunded non-U.S. defined benefit pension plans and our expected 2011 contributions, refer to Item 1: “Financial Statements Note 8: Defined Benefit Pension Plans”.

For a description of our bonus and profit sharing plans, including the amounts accrued at June 30, 2011 and the expected timing of payment, refer to Bonus and Profit Sharing within Critical Accounting Estimates below.

We expect to grow through a combination of internal new product development, licensing technology from and to others, distribution agreements, partnership arrangements, and acquisitions of technology or other companies. We expect these activities to be funded with existing cash, cash flow from operations, borrowings, and the sale of common stock or other securities. We believe existing sources of liquidity will be sufficient to fund our existing operations and obligations for the next 12 months and into the foreseeable future, but offer no assurances. Our liquidity could be affected by the stability of the energy and water industries, competitive pressures, changes in estimated liabilities for product warranties and/or litigation, future business combinations, capital market fluctuations, international risks, and other factors described under “Risk Factors” within Item 1A of Part I of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2010, which was filed with the SEC on February 25, 2011, and Part II: Other Information Item 1A "Risk Factors" included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, as well as in our “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” within Item 3 of Part 1, included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10‑Q.

Contingencies

Refer to Item 1: “Financial Statements Note 11: Commitments and Contingencies”.

Critical Accounting Estimates

Revenue Recognition
The majority of our revenue arrangements involve multiple deliverables, which require us to determine the fair value of each deliverable and then allocate the total arrangement consideration among the separate deliverables based on the relative fair value percentages. Revenues for each deliverable are then recognized based on the type of deliverable, such as 1) when the products are shipped, 2) services are delivered, 3) percentage-of-completion when implementation services are essential to other deliverables in the arrangements, 4) upon receipt of customer acceptance, or 5) transfer of title. A majority of our revenue is recognized when products are shipped to or received by a customer or when services are provided.

Fair value represents the estimated price charged if an element were sold separately. If the fair value of any undelivered element included in a multiple deliverable arrangement cannot be objectively determined, revenue is deferred until all elements are delivered and services have been performed, or until the fair value can be objectively determined for any remaining undelivered elements. We review our fair values on an annual basis or more frequently if a significant trend is noted.

If implementation services are essential to a software arrangement, revenue is recognized using either the percentage-of-completion methodology if project costs can be reliably estimated or the completed contract methodology if project costs cannot be reliably estimated. The estimation of costs through completion of a project is subject to many variables such as the length of time to complete, changes in wages, subcontractor performance, supplier information, and business volume assumptions. Changes in underlying assumptions/estimates may adversely or positively affect financial performance.

Certain of our revenue arrangements include an extended or noncustomary warranty provision which covers all or a portion of a customer’s replacement or repair costs beyond the standard or customary warranty period. Whether or not the extended warranty

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is separately priced in the arrangement, a portion of the arrangement’s total consideration is allocated to this extended warranty deliverable. This revenue is deferred and recognized over the extended warranty coverage period. Extended or noncustomary warranties do not represent a significant portion of our revenue.

We allocate consideration to each deliverable in an arrangement based on its relative selling price. We determine selling price using vendor specific objective evidence (VSOE), if it exists, otherwise third-party evidence (TPE). If neither VSOE nor TPE of selling price exists for a unit of accounting, we use estimated selling price (ESP).

VSOE is generally limited to the price charged when the same or similar product is sold separately or, if applicable, the stated renewal rate in the agreement. If a product or service is seldom sold separately, it is unlikely that we can determine VSOE for the product or service. We define VSOE as a median price of recent standalone transactions that are priced within a narrow range. TPE is determined based on the prices charged by our competitors for a similar deliverable when sold separately.

If we are unable to establish selling price using VSOE or TPE, we use ESP in the allocation of arrangement consideration. The objective of ESP is to determine the price at which we would transact if the product or service were sold by us on a standalone basis. Our determination of ESP involves a weighting of several factors based on the specific facts and circumstances of the arrangement. Specifically, we consider the cost to produce the deliverable, the anticipated margin on that deliverable, the selling price and profit margin for similar parts, our ongoing pricing strategy and policies (as evident in the price list established and updated by management on a regular basis), the value of any enhancements that have been built into the deliverable, and the characteristics of the varying markets in which the deliverable is sold. We analyze the selling prices used in our allocation of arrangement consideration on an annual basis. Selling prices are analyzed on a more frequent basis if a significant change in our business necessitates a more timely analysis or if we experience significant variances in our selling prices.

Warranty
We offer standard warranties on our hardware products and large application software products. We accrue the estimated cost of warranty claims based on historical and projected product performance trends and costs. Testing of new products in the development stage helps identify and correct potential warranty issues prior to manufacturing. Continuing quality control efforts during manufacturing reduce our exposure to warranty claims. If our quality control efforts fail to detect a fault in one of our products, we could experience an increase in warranty claims. We track warranty claims to identify potential warranty trends. If an unusual trend is noted, an additional warranty accrual may be assessed and recorded when a failure event is probable and the cost can be reasonably estimated. When new products are introduced, our process relies on historical averages until sufficient data are available. As actual experience becomes available, it is used to modify the historical averages to ensure the expected warranty costs are within a range of likely outcomes. Management continually evaluates the sufficiency of the warranty provisions and makes adjustments when necessary. The warranty allowances may fluctuate due to changes in estimates for material, labor, and other costs we may incur to repair or replace projected product failures, and we may incur additional warranty and related expenses in the future with respect to new or established products, which could adversely affect our gross margin. The long-term warranty balance includes estimated warranty claims beyond one year.

Income Taxes
Our annual estimated effective tax rate requires significant judgment and is subject to several factors, including fluctuations in the forecasted mix of earnings in domestic and international jurisdictions, new or revised tax legislation and accounting pronouncements, tax credits, state income taxes, adjustments to valuation allowances, and interest expense and penalties related to uncertain tax positions, among other items. Changes in tax laws and unanticipated tax liabilities could significantly impact our tax rate.

We record valuation allowances to reduce deferred tax assets to the extent we believe it is more likely than not that a portion of such assets will not be realized. In making such determinations, we consider all available positive and negative evidence, including scheduled reversals of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, tax planning strategies, and our ability to carry back losses to prior years. We are required to make assumptions and judgments about potential outcomes that lie outside management’s control. Our most sensitive and critical factors are the projection, source, and character of future taxable income. Although realization is not assured, management believes it is more likely than not that deferred tax assets will be realized. The amount of deferred tax assets considered realizable, however, could be reduced in the near term if estimates of future taxable income during the carryforward periods are reduced or current tax planning strategies are not implemented.

We are subject to audit in multiple taxing jurisdictions in which we operate. These audits may involve complex issues, which may require an extended period of time to resolve. We believe we have recorded adequate income tax provisions and reserves for uncertain tax positions.

In evaluating uncertain tax positions, we consider the relative risks and merits of positions taken in tax returns filed and to be filed,

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considering statutory, judicial, and regulatory guidance applicable to those positions. We make assumptions and judgments about potential outcomes that lie outside management’s control. To the extent the tax authorities disagree with our conclusions and depending on the final resolution of those disagreements, our actual tax rate may be materially affected in the period of final settlement with the tax authorities.

Inventories
Items are removed from inventory using the first-in, first-out method. Inventories include raw materials, sub-assemblies, and finished goods. Inventory amounts include the cost to manufacture the item, such as the cost of raw materials, labor, and other applied direct and indirect costs. We also review idle facility expense, freight, handling costs, and wasted materials to determine if abnormal amounts should be recognized as current-period charges. We review our inventory for obsolescence and marketability. If the estimated market value, which is based upon assumptions about future demand and market conditions, falls below the original cost, the inventory value is reduced to the market value. If technology rapidly changes or actual market conditions are less favorable than those projected by management, inventory write-downs may be required. Our inventory levels may vary period to period as a result of our factory scheduling and timing of contract fulfillments.

Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Goodwill and intangible assets result from our acquisitions. We use estimates, including estimates of useful lives of intangible assets, the amount and timing of related future cash flows, and fair values of the related operations, in determining the value assigned to goodwill and intangible assets. Our intangible assets have a finite life and are amortized over their estimated useful lives based on estimated discounted cash flows. Intangible assets are tested for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable.

We test goodwill for impairment each year as of October 1, or more frequently should a significant impairment indicator occur. Our Itron North America operating segment represents one reporting unit, while our Itron International operating segment has three reporting units. Based on the relative fair values, we will reallocate our goodwill from our existing reporting units to the new reporting units within the Energy and Water operating segments in the first quarter of 2012.

Determining the fair value of a reporting unit is judgmental in nature and involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions. We forecast discounted future cash flows at the reporting unit level using risk-adjusted discount rates and estimated future revenues and operating costs, which take into consideration factors such as existing backlog, expected future orders, supplier contracts, and expectations of competitive and economic environments. We also identify similar publicly traded companies and develop a correlation, referred to as a multiple, to apply to the operating results of the reporting units. These combined fair values are then reconciled to our October1 aggregate market value of our shares of common stock, while considering a reasonable control premium. Our 2010 annual goodwill impairment analysis did not result in an impairment charge as the fair value of each reporting unit exceeded its carrying value. The percentage by which the fair value of each reporting unit exceeded its carrying value and the amount of goodwill allocated to each reporting unit at October 1, 2010 was as follows:
 
 
October 1, 2010
 
Goodwill
 
Fair Value Exceeded
Carrying Value
 
(in thousands)
 
 
Itron North America
$
197,645

 
229%
Itron International - Electricity
347,299

 
14%
Itron International - Water
383,194

 
29%
Itron International - Gas
308,445

 
55%
 
$
1,236,583

 
 

Changes in market demand and the economies in which we operate across local markets, the volatility and decline in the worldwide equity markets, and the decline in our market capitalization could negatively impact our annual goodwill impairment test, which could have a significant effect on our current and future results of operations and financial condition.

Derivative Instruments
All derivative instruments, whether designated in hedging relationships or not, are recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value as either assets or liabilities. The components and fair values of our derivative instruments, which are primarily interest rate swaps, are determined using the fair value measurements of significant other observable inputs (also known as “Level 2”), as defined by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. We include the effect of our counterparty credit risk based on current published credit default swap rates when the net fair value of our derivative instruments is in a net asset position and the effect of

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our own nonperformance risk when the net fair value of our derivative instruments is in a net liability position. Level 2 inputs consist of quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in non-active markets; and model-derived valuations in which significant inputs are corroborated by observable market data either directly or indirectly through correlation or other means (inputs may include yield curves, volatility, credit risks, and default rates). Derivatives are not used for trading or speculative purposes. Our derivatives are with major international financial institutions, with whom we have master netting agreements; however, our derivative positions are not disclosed on a net basis. There are no credit-risk-related contingent features within our derivative instruments.

Defined Benefit Pension Plans
We sponsor both funded and unfunded defined benefit pension plans for our international employees, primarily in Germany, France, Italy, Indonesia, and Spain. We recognize a liability for the projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets or an asset for plan assets in excess of the projected benefit obligation. We also recognize the funded status of our defined benefit pension plans on our Consolidated Balance Sheets and recognize as a component of other comprehensive income (OCI), net of tax, the actuarial gains or losses and prior service costs or credits, if any, that arise during the period but are not recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost.

Several economic assumptions and actuarial data are used in calculating the expense and obligations related to these plans. The assumptions are updated annually at December 31 and include the discount rate, the expected remaining service life, the expected rate of return on plan assets, and rate of future compensation increase. The discount rate is a significant assumption used to value our pension benefit obligation. We determine a discount rate for our plans based on the estimated duration of each plan’s liabilities. For our euro denominated defined benefit pension plans, which represent 94% of our benefit obligation, we use two discount rates, (separated between shorter and longer duration plans), using a hypothetical yield curve developed from euro-denominated AA-rated corporate bond issues, partially weighted for market value, with minimum amounts outstanding of €250 million for bonds with less than 10 years to maturity and €50 million for bonds with 10 or more years to maturity, and excluding 10% of the highest and lowest yielding bonds within each maturity group. The discount rates derived for our shorter duration euro denominated plans (less than 10 years) and longer duration plans (greater than 10 years) were 4.50% and 5.25%, respectively. The weighted average discount rate used to measure the projected benefit obligation for all of the plans at December 31, 2010 was 5.35%. A change of 25 basis points in the discount rate would change our pension benefit obligation by approximately $2.5 million. The financial and actuarial assumptions used at December 31, 2010 may differ materially from actual results due to changing market and economic conditions and other factors. These differences could result in a significant change in the amount of pension expense recorded in future periods. Gains and losses resulting from changes in actuarial assumptions, including the discount rate, are recognized in OCI in the period in which they occur.

Our general funding policy for these qualified pension plans is to contribute amounts at least sufficient to satisfy funding standards of the respective countries for each plan. Refer to Item 1: “Financial Statements, Note 8: Defined Benefit Pension Plans” for our expected contributions for 2011.

Bonus and Profit Sharing
We have various employee bonus and profit sharing plans, which provide award amounts for the achievement of annual financial and nonfinancial targets. If management determines it probable that the targets will be achieved and the amounts can be reasonably estimated, a compensation accrual is recorded based on the proportional achievement of the financial and nonfinancial targets. Although we monitor and accrue expenses quarterly based on our estimated progress toward the achievement of the annual targets, the actual results at the end of the year may require awards that are significantly greater or less than the estimates made in earlier quarters. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, we accrued $7.8 million and $15.1 million for such awards, compared with $11.8 million and $24 million in the same periods in 2010. Awards are typically distributed in the first quarter of the following year.

Stock-Based Compensation
We measure and recognize compensation expense for all stock-based awards made to employees and directors, including awards of stock options, stock sold pursuant to our Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP), and the issuance of restricted stock units and unrestricted stock awards, based on estimated fair values. The fair value of stock options is estimated at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model, which includes assumptions for the dividend yield, expected volatility, risk-free interest rate, and expected life. In valuing our stock options, significant judgment is required in determining the expected volatility of our common stock and the expected life that individuals will hold their stock options prior to exercising. Expected volatility is based on the historical and implied volatility of our own common stock. The expected life of stock option grants is derived from the historical actual term of option grants and an estimate of future exercises during the remaining contractual period of the option. While volatility and estimated life are assumptions that do not bear the risk of change subsequent to the grant date of stock options, these assumptions may be difficult to measure as they represent future expectations based on historical experience. Further, our expected volatility and expected life may change in the future, which could substantially change the grant-date fair value of future

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awards of stock options and ultimately the expense we record. For ESPP awards, the fair value is the difference between the market close price of our common stock on the date of purchase and the discounted purchase price. For restricted stock units and unrestricted stock awards, the fair value is the market close price of our common stock on the date of grant. We consider many factors when estimating expected forfeitures, including types of awards, employee class, and historical experience. Actual results and future estimates may differ substantially from our current estimates. We expense stock-based compensation at the date of grant for unrestricted stock awards. For awards with only a service condition, we expense stock-based compensation, adjusted for estimated forfeitures, using the straight-line method over the requisite service period for the entire award. For awards with both performance and service conditions, we expense the stock-based compensation, adjusted for estimated forfeitures, on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for each separately vesting portion of the award. Excess tax benefits are credited to common stock when the deduction reduces cash taxes payable. When we have tax deductions in excess of the compensation cost, they are classified as financing cash inflows in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

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Item 3:
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
In the normal course of business, we are exposed to interest rate and foreign currency exchange rate risks that could impact our financial position and results of operations. As part of our risk management strategy, we use derivative financial instruments to hedge certain foreign currency and interest rate exposures. Our objective is to offset gains and losses resulting from these exposures with losses and gains on the derivative contracts used to hedge them, therefore reducing the impact of volatility on earnings or protecting the fair values of assets and liabilities. We use derivative contracts only to manage existing underlying exposures. Accordingly, we do not use derivative contracts for trading or speculative purposes.

Interest Rate Risk
The table below provides information about our financial instruments that are sensitive to changes in interest rates and the scheduled minimum repayment of principal and estimated cash interest payments over the remaining lives of our debt at June 30, 2011. Our one-year pay-fixed receive one-month LIBOR interest rate swaps, which converted $100 million of our U.S. dollar term loan from a floating LIBOR interest rate to a fixed interest rate, expired on June 30, 2011. As a result of the expiration of our interest rate swaps, 59% of our borrowings are at fixed rates. We will continue to monitor and assess our interest rate risk and may institute additional interest rate swaps or other derivative instruments to manage such risk in the future.

Weighted average variable rates in the table are based on implied forward rates in the Reuters U.S. dollar yield curve as of June 30, 2011, our estimated leverage ratio, which determines our additional interest rate margin, and a static foreign exchange rate at June 30, 2011.
 
 
2011
 
2012
 
2013
 
2014
 
Total
 
(in thousands)
Fixed Rate Debt
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Principal: Convertible notes(1)
$
223,604

 
$

 
$

 
$

 
$
223,604

Interest rate
2.50
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Variable Rate Debt
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Principal: U.S. dollar term loan
$
3,025

 
$
6,051

 
$
6,051

 
$
185,489

 
$
200,616

Average interest rate
3.75
 %
 
4.04
 %
 
4.93
%
 
5.93
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Principal: Euro term loan
$
2,397

 
$
4,794

 
$
4,794

 
$
139,365

 
$
151,350

Average interest rate
4.86
 %
 
5.42
 %
 
5.86
%
 
6.59
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate swap on euro term loan(2)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Average interest rate (Pay)
6.59
 %
 
6.59
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
Average interest rate (Receive)
3.61
 %
 
3.90
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net/Spread
(2.98
)%
 
(2.69
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
(1) 
Our convertible notes mature in August 2026, however due to the combination of put, call, and conversion options in 2011, the notes are classified as current, (refer to Item 1: “Financial Statements, Note 6: Debt”).

(2) 
The amortizing euro denominated interest rate swap is used to convert $115.6 million (€80.8 million) of our $151.4 million (€105.8 million) euro denominated variable rate term loan from a floating Euro Interbank Offered Rate (EURIBOR), plus the applicable margin, to a fixed interest rate of 6.59%, through December 31, 2012, plus or minus the variance in the applicable margin from 2%. As a result of the amortization schedule, the interest rate swap will terminate before the stated maturity of the term loan (Refer to Item 1: “Financial Statements, Note 7: Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities”).

Based on a sensitivity analysis as of June 30, 2011, we estimate that if market interest rates average one percentage point higher in 2011 than in the table above, our earnings in 2011 would not be materially impacted due to our interest rate swap in place at June 30, 2011.

We continually monitor and assess our interest rate risk and may institute additional interest rate swaps or other derivative instruments to manage such risk in the future.

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk
We conduct business in a number of countries. As a result, over half of our revenues and operating expenses are denominated in foreign currencies, which expose our account balances to movements in foreign currency exchange rates that could have a material

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effect on our financial results. Our primary foreign currency exposure relates to non-U.S. dollar denominated transactions in our international subsidiary operations, the most significant of which is the euro. Revenues denominated in functional currencies other than the U.S. dollar were 56% and 55% of total revenues for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, compared with 50% and 52% for the same periods in 2010.
In conjunction with our acquisition of Actaris Metering Systems SA, we entered into a euro denominated term loan in 2007 that exposes us to fluctuations in the euro foreign exchange rate. We have designated this foreign currency denominated term loan as a hedge of our net investment in international operations. The non-functional currency term loan is revalued into U.S. dollar at each balance sheet date, and the changes in value associated with currency fluctuations are recorded as adjustments to long-term debt with offsetting gains and losses recorded in other comprehensive income. We had no hedge ineffectiveness (refer to Item 1: “Financial Statements, Note 7: Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities”).

We are also exposed to foreign exchange risk when we enter into non-functional currency transactions, both intercompany and third-party. At each period-end, foreign currency monetary assets and liabilities are revalued with the change recorded to other income and expense. We enter into monthly foreign exchange forward contracts (a total of 257 contracts were entered into during the six months ended June 30, 2011), not designated for hedge accounting, with the intent to reduce earnings volatility associated with certain of these balances. The notional amounts of the contracts ranged from $50,000 to $72 million, offsetting our exposures from the euro, British pound, Canadian dollar, Czech koruna, Hungarian forint, and various other currencies.
In future periods, we may use additional derivative contracts to protect against foreign currency exchange rate risks.

Item 4:
Controls and Procedures

(a)
Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures. At June 30, 2011, an evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of our Company’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Based on that evaluation, the Company’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, concluded that as of June 30, 2011, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective to ensure the information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. There are inherent limitations to the effectiveness of any system of disclosure controls and procedures, including the possibility of human error and the circumvention or overriding of the controls and procedures. Accordingly, even effective disclosure controls and procedures can only provide reasonable assurance of achieving their control objectives.

(b)
Changes in internal controls over financial reporting. There have been no changes in internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended June 30, 2011 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal controls over financial reporting.


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PART II: OTHER INFORMATION
 

Item 1:
Legal Proceedings
There were no material changes, as defined by Item 103 of Regulation S-K, during the second quarter of 2011.

Item 1A:
Risk Factors
Material changes to risk factors during the second quarter of 2011 from those previously disclosed in Item 1A of Part I of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2010, which was filed with the SEC on February 25, 2011 are as follows:
 
Our international sales and operations are subject to complex laws relating to foreign corrupt practices and anti-bribery laws among many others, and a violation of, or change in, these laws could adversely affect our operations.

The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act in the United States requires United States companies to comply with an extensive legal framework to prevent bribery of foreign officials. The laws are complex and require that we closely monitor local practices of our overseas offices. The United States Department of Justice has recently heightened enforcement of these laws. In addition, other countries continue to implement similar laws that may have extra-territorial effect. The United Kingdom, where we have operations, has recently implemented the U.K. Bribery Act that could impose significant oversight obligations on us and could have application to our operations outside of the United Kingdom. The costs for complying with these and similar laws may be significant and could reasonably be expected to require significant management time and focus. Any violation of these or similar laws, intentional or unintentional, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.

We are subject to a variety of litigation that could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.

From time to time, we are involved in litigation that arises from our business. Litigation may, for example, relate to product failure or product liability claims, alleged infringements of intellectual property rights of others, contractual disputes, or employment matters. We are also subject to securities litigation.

Litigation can be expensive to defend and can divert the attention of management and other personnel for long periods of time, regardless of the ultimate outcome. We may be required to pay damage awards or settlements or become subject to equitable remedies that could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. While we currently maintain insurance coverage, such insurance may not provide adequate coverage against potential claims.

Item 5:
Other Information
(a) No information was required to be disclosed in a report on Form 8-K during the second quarter of 2011 that was not reported.

(b) Not applicable.

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Item 6:
Exhibits
 
 
 
 
Exhibit
Number
  
Description of Exhibits
 
 
12.1
  
Statement re Computation of Ratios
 
 
31.1
  
Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
 
31.2
  
Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
 
32.1
  
Certification Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
 
101.INS*
  
XBRL Instance Document
 
 
101.SCH*
  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema
 
 
101.CAL*
  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase
 
 
101.LAB*
  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase
 
 
101.PRE*
  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase
 
*
Pursuant to applicable securities laws and regulations, we are deemed to have complied with the reporting obligation relating to the submission of interactive data files in such exhibits and are not subject to liability under any anti-fraud provisions of the federal securities laws as long as we have made a good faith attempt to comply with the submission requirements and promptly amend the interactive data files after becoming aware that the interactive data files fail to comply with the submission requirements. Users of this data are advised that, pursuant to Rule 406T, these interactive data files are deemed not filed and otherwise are not subject to liability.


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SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
 
 
 
ITRON, INC.
 
 
 
 
August 1, 2011
 
By:
/s/ STEVEN M. HELMBRECHT
Date
 
 
Steven M. Helmbrecht
 
 
 
Sr. Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

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