UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, DC 20549

FORM 10-Q

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2014

Commission file number 000-33067

MIDWEST ENERGY EMISSIONS CORP.
(Exact name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)
 
Delaware   87-0398271
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)   (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
     
500 West Wilson Bridge Road, Suite 140
Worthington, Ohio
  43085
(Address of principal Executive offices)   (Zip Code)
 
(614) 505-6115
(Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)

(Former Name, Former Address and Former Fiscal Year, if Changed Since Last Report)

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 o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes x  No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definition of “large accelerated filer”, “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
 
Large accelerated filer  o Accelerated filer o
Non-accelerated filer  o Smaller reporting company  x
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined by Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes o  No x

State the number of shares outstanding of each of the Issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date: Common, $.001 par value per share; 39,175,200 outstanding as of May 14, 2014.
 


 
 

 
 
MIDWEST ENERGY EMISSIONS CORP.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
     
Page
 
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
     
         
Item 1.
Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
    4  
Item 2.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
    5  
Item 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
    10  
Item 4.
Controls and Procedures.
    11  
           
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
       
           
Item 1.
Legal Proceedings.
    12  
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
    12  
Item 2.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds.
    12  
Item 3.
Default upon Senior Securities.
    12  
Item 4.
Mine Safety Disclosure.
    12  
Item 5.
Other Information.
    12  
Item 6.
Exhibits.
    13  
           
SIGNATURES
 
    14  
 
 
2

 
 
PART I
 
Forward-Looking Statements
 
This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains “forward-looking statements,” as defined in Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and reflect our current expectations regarding our future growth, results of operations, cash flows, performance and business prospects, and opportunities, as well as assumptions made by, and information currently available to, our management. Forward-looking statements are generally identified by using words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “plan,” “expect,” “intend,” “will,” and similar expressions, but these words are not the exclusive means of identifying forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this report are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by the statements. These statements are based on information currently available to us and are subject to various risks, uncertainties, and other factors, including, but not limited to, those discussed under the caption “Risk Factors in the Company’s 2013 Form 10-K”. In addition, matters that may cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include, among other factors, the gain or loss of a major customer, change in environmental regulations, disruption in supply of materials, a significant change in general economic conditions in any of the regions where our customer utilities might experience significant changes in electric demand, a significant disruption in the supply of coal to our customer's units, the loss of key management personnel, failure to obtain adequate working capital to execute the business plan and any major litigation regarding the Company. Except as expressly required by the federal securities laws, we undertake no obligation to update such factors or to publicly announce the results of any of the forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect future events, developments, or changed circumstances or for any other reason.
 
 
3

 

PART I – FINANCIAL INFOMATION
 
ITEM 1 – FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
MIDWEST ENERGY EMISSIONS CORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
Index to Condensed Financial Information
Period Ended March 31, 2014
 
   
Page
 
       
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
    F-1  
         
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
    F-2  
         
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Deficit
    F-3  
         
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
    F-5  
         
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
    F-6  
 
 
4

 

MIDWEST ENERGY EMISSIONS CORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE COMPANY)
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
MARCH 31, 2014 AND DECEMBER 31, 2013
 
   
March 31,
 2014
   
December 31,
 2013
 
    (Unaudited)        
ASSETS
Current assets
           
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 271,865     $ 509,605  
Accounts receivable
    713,400       383,859  
Inventory work in process
    940,817       -  
Prepaid expenses and other assets
    60,527       63,132  
Total current assets
    1,986,609       956,596  
                 
Property and equipment, net
    131,036       173,072  
License, net
    69,118       70,589  
Prepaid expenses and other assets
    21,104       23,539  
Debt issuance costs, net
    634,990       700,011  
Customer acquisition costs
    1,120,500       -  
Total assets
  $ 3,963,357     $ 1,923,807  
                 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' DEFICIT
                 
Current liabilities
               
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
  $ 1,019,936     $ 275,145  
Accrued legal and consulting fees
    443,513       365,348  
Accrued salaries and benefits
    471,947       377,213  
Accrued interest - related party
    247,790       247,696  
Deferred revenue
    1,075,200       -  
Customer credits
    970,500       -  
Advances payable - related party
    4,167       4,167  
Convertible note payable of discontinued operations
    -       50,000  
Notes payable
    300,000       300,000  
Current liabilities of discontinued operations
    250,000       261,036  
Total current liabilities
    4,783,053       1,880,605  
                 
Convertible promissory notes payable
    4,913,228       4,675,673  
Accrued interest
    159,645       273,877  
Total liabilities
    9,855,926       6,830,155  
                 
Stockholders' deficit
               
Preferred stock, $.001 par value: 2,000,000 shares authorized
    -       -  
Common stock; $.001 par value; 100,000,000 shares authorized;
               
38,181,658 shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2014
               
35,299,429 shares issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2013
    38,181       35,299  
Additional paid-in capital
    16,202,636       13,789,473  
Deficit accumulated during development stage
    (22,133,386 )     (18,731,120 )
                 
Total stockholders' deficit
    (5,892,569 )     (4,906,348 )
                 
Total liabilities and stockholders' deficit
  $ 3,963,357     $ 1,923,807  
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
 
F-1

 

MIDWEST ENERGY EMISSIONS CORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE COMPANY)
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE QUARTERS ENDED MARCH 31, 2014 AND 2013
AND THE CUMULATIVE PERIOD DECEMBER 17, 2008 (INCEPTION) THROUGH MARCH 31, 2014
 
   
For the Quarter Ended March 31,
2014
   
For the Quarter Ended March 31,
2013
   
December 17, 2008 (Inception) Through March 31,
2014
 
                   
Revenues
  $ -     $ 55,446     $ 3,228,649  
                         
Costs and expenses:
                       
Cost of goods sold
    -       28,351       1,047,680  
Operating expenses
    20,287       29,209       1,667,480  
License maintenance fees
    75,000       50,000       1,650,000  
Marketing and development
    62,943       89,770       1,705,018  
Selling, general and administrative expenses
    480,793       397,008       3,923,474  
Depreciation and amortization
    43,507       44,724       660,886  
Professional fees
    232,852       219,489       2,552,150  
Stock based compensation
    2,188,675       189,366       6,890,065  
Imparment of fixed assets
    -       -       800,000  
Impairment of goodwill
    -       -       3,555,304  
                         
Total costs and expenses
    3,104,057       1,047,917       24,452,057  
                         
Operating loss
    (3,104,057 )     (992,471 )     (21,223,408 )
                         
Other income (expense)
                       
Interest expense
    (298,209 )     (123,120 )     (1,325,647 )
Loss on disposal of fixed assets
    -       -       (19,504 )
Gain on forgiveness of liabilities
    -       -       360,656  
                         
Total other income (expense)
    (298,209 )     (123,120 )     (984,495 )
                         
Net loss from continuing operations
    (3,402,266 )     (1,115,591 )     (22,207,903 )
                         
Net gain from discontinued operations
    -       -       74,517  
                         
Net loss
  $ (3,402,266 )   $ (1,115,591 )   $ (22,133,386 )
                         
Net loss per common share - basic and diluted:
                       
                         
Continuing operations
  $ (0.09 )   $ (0.03 )        
Discontinued operations
    -       -          
    $ (0.09 )   $ (0.03 )        
                         
Weighted average common shares outstanding
    37,318,502       33,335,712          
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
 
F-2

 

MIDWEST ENERGY EMISSIONS CORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE COMPANY)
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' DEFICIT
FOR THE PERIOD FROM DECEMBER 17, 2008 (INCEPTION) THROUGH MARCH 31, 2014
 
   
Common Stock
   
Additional
Paid-in
   
Accumulated
   
Common Stock
   
Total
Stockholders'
 
   
Shares
   
Par Value
   
Capital
   
(Deficit)
   
Subscribed
   
Deficit
 
                                     
Balance - December 17, 2008
    -     $ -     $ -     $ -       -     $ -  
                                                 
Common stock subscribed
    23,601,967       -       -       -       23,601,967       23,601,967  
                                                 
Subscription receivable
    (23,601,967 )     -       -       -       (23,601,967 )     (23,601,967 )
                                                 
Net loss for the period
    -       -       -       -       -       -  
                                                 
Balance - December 31, 2008
    -       -       -       -       -       -  
                                                 
Proceeds received from subscriptions receivable
    11,412,090       11,412       (7,245 )     -       -       4,167  
                                                 
Net loss for the period
    -       -       -       (30,750 )     -       (30,750 )
                                                 
Balance - December 31, 2009
    11,412,090       11,412       (7,245 )     (30,750 )     -       (26,583 )
                                                 
Proceeds from subscriptions receivable
    12,189,877       12,190       (7,739 )     -       -       4,451  
                                                 
Stock issued for services
    3,483,604       3,484       60,116       -       -       63,600  
                                                 
Net loss for the period
    -       -       -       (471,565 )     -       (471,565 )
                                                 
Balance - December 31, 2010
    27,085,571       27,086       45,132       (502,315 )     -       (430,097 )
                                                 
Proceeds from the issuance of common stock (pre merger)
    164,321       164       149,836       -       -       150,000  
                                                 
Shares issued for services (pre merger)
    136,934       137       124,863       -       -       125,000  
                                                 
Issuance of common stock in a business combination
    3,042,977       3,043       2,774,735       -       -       2,777,778  
                                                 
Stock issued for services
    63,712       64       108,566       -       -       108,630  
                                                 
Proceeds from the issuance of preferred stock subsequently converted to common stock, net of issuance costs
    507,500       508       464,853       -       -       465,361  
                                                 
Issuance of common stock in lieu of fractional shares from reverse split
    337       -       -       -       -       -  
                                                 
Issaunce of warrants
    -       -       18,139       -       -       18,139  
                                                 
Proceeds from the issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs
    1,677,298       1,677       1,612,212       -       -       1,613,889  
                                                 
Common stock to be issued
    -       -       3,953,193       -       -       3,953,193  
                                                 
Net loss for the period
    -       -       -       (9,497,116 )     -       (9,497,116 )
                                                 
Balance - December 31, 2011
    32,678,650     $ 32,679     $ 9,251,529     $ (9,999,431 )     -     $ (715,223 )
                                                 
Proceeds from the issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs
    213,500       213       213,287       -       -       213,500  
                                                 
Shares issued for services in 2011
    175,000       175       (175 )     -       -       -  
                                                 
Shares issued to satisfy outstanding grant as of the merger date
    172,728       173       (173 )     -       -       -  
                                                 
Common stock to be issued
    -       -       493,734       -       -       493,734  
                                                 
Net loss for the period
    -       -       -       (3,878,049 )     -       (3,878,049 )
                                                 
Balance - December 31, 2012
    33,239,878     $ 33,240     $ 9,958,202     $ (13,877,480 )     -     $ (3,886,038 )
 
 
F-3

 
 
   
Common Stock
   
Additional
Paid-in
   
Accumulated
   
Common Stock
   
Total
Stockholders'
 
   
Shares
   
Par Value
   
Capital
   
(Deficit)
   
Subscribed
   
Deficit
 
                                                 
Stock issued for services
    318,467       318       108,182       -       -       108,500  
                                                 
Common stock to be issued
    -       -       1,692,759       -       -       1,692,759  
                                                 
Stock issued upon debt conversion
    1,741,084       1,741       868,801       -       -       870,542  
                                                 
Sale / issuance of warrants, net of issuance costs
    -       -       1,161,529       -       -       1,161,529  
                                                 
Net loss for the period
    -       -       -       (4,853,640 )     -       (4,853,640 )
                                                 
Balance - December 31, 2013
    35,299,429     $ 35,299     $ 13,789,473     $ (18,731,120 )     -     $ (4,906,348 )
                                                 
Stock issued for services
    25,000       25       52,475       -       -       52,500  
                                                 
Shares issued per 2013 amended license agreement
    1,375,000       1,375       (1,375 )     -       -       -  
                                                 
Stock issued for interest on notes payable
    87,144       87       52,823       -       -       52,910  
                                                 
Stock issued upon debt conversion
    220,014       220       113,927       -       -       114,147  
                                                 
Stock issued upon warrant exercise
    6,250       6       7,807       -       -       7,813  
                                                 
Stock issued upon cashless warrant exercise
    1,168,821       1,169       (1,169 )     -       -       -  
                                                 
Issuance of stock options
    -       -       2,188,675       -       -       2,188,675  
                                                 
Net loss for the period
    -       -       -       (3,402,266 )     -       (3,402,266 )
                                                 
Balance - March 31, 2014
    38,181,658     $ 38,181     $ 16,202,636     $ (22,133,386 )     -     $ (5,892,569 )
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
 
F-4

 

MIDWEST ENERGY EMISSIONS CORP AND SUBSIDIARIES
(A DEVELOPMENT STAGE COMPANY)
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE QUARTERS ENDED MARCH 31, 2014 AND 2013
AND THE CUMULATIVE PERIOD DECEMBER 17, 2008 (INCEPTION) THROUGH MARCH 31, 2014
 
   
For the Quarter Ended March 31, 2014
   
For the Quarter Ended March 31, 2013
   
December 17, 2008 (Inception) Through March 31, 2014
 
Cash flows from operating activities
                 
Net loss
  $ (3,402,266 )   $ (1,115,591 )   $ (22,133,386 )
                         
Adjustments to reconcile net loss
                       
to net cash used in operating activities:
                       
Stock based compensation
    2,188,675       189,366       6,890,065  
Stock issued for services
    52,500       11,000       1,059,023  
Stock issued for license agreement
    -       -       825,000  
Amortization of license fees
    1,471       1,471       30,882  
Amortization of discount of notes payable
    69,088       -       210,577  
Amortization of debt issuance costs
    65,021       -       128,143  
Depreciation and amortization expense
    42,036       42,628       641,189  
Loss on disposal of fixed assets
    -       -       19,504  
Imparment of fixed assets
    -       -       800,000  
Impairment of goodwill
    -       -       3,555,304  
Gain on forgiveness of liabilities
    -       -       (360,656 )
Gain on forgiveness of liabilities of discontinued operations
    -       -       (104,024 )
Change in assets and liabilities
                       
Increase in accounts receivable
    (479,541 )     274,464       (863,400 )
Increase in inventory
    (940,817 )     24,085       (940,817 )
Decrease (increase) in prepaid expenses and other assets
    5,040       (23,062 )     (79,755 )
Increase in accounts payable and accrued liabilities
    1,078,040       370,574       3,132,682  
Increase in deferred revenue
    1,075,200       -       1,075,200  
Net cash used in operating activities
    (245,553 )     (225,065 )     (6,114,469 )
                         
Cash flows used in investing activities
                       
Purchase of license
    -       -       (100,000 )
Cash assumed in reverse merger
    -       -       11,150  
Purchase of equipment
    -       -       (1,414,602 )
Net cash used in investing activities
    -       -       (1,503,452 )
                         
Cash flows from financing activities
                       
Payment of debt issuance costs
    -       -       (521,312 )
Net proceeds from related party advances
    -       -       951,034  
Payment on note payable
    -       -       -  
Proceeds from the issuance of preferred stock, net
    -       -       483,500  
Proceeds from the issuance of convertible promissory notes and related warrants
    -       105,045       4,982,744  
Proceeds from the issuance of common stock, net
    -       -      
1,986,007
 
Proceeds from the issuance of common stock upon warrant exercise
   
7,813
      -      
7,813
 
Net cash provided by financing activities
    7,813       105,045       7,889,786  
                         
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents
    (237,740 )     (120,020 )     271,865  
                         
Cash and cash equivalents - beginning of period
    509,605       189,367       -  
 
                       
Cash and cash equivalents - end of period
  $ 271,865     $ 69,347     $ 271,865  
                         
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
                       
Cash paid during the period for:
                       
Interest
  $ 3,750     $ 2,250     $ 28,670  
                         
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF NON-CASH TRANSACTIONS
                       
Equipment purchases included in accounts payable
  $ 112,000     $ 112,000     $ 112,000  
Accrued sales credits included in customer acquisition costs
  $ 970,500     $ -     $ 970,500  
Conversion of advances payable to debt
  $ -     $ -     $ 1,036,195  
Conversion of debt and accrued interest to equity
  $ 167,057     $ 134,975     $ 1,033,268  
Conversion of accrued interest to debt
  $ 220,967     $ -     $ 526,463  
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
 
F-5

 
 
Midwest Energy Emissions Corp. and Subsidiaries
 
(A Development Stage Company)
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
 
Note 1 - Organization

Midwest Energy Emissions Corp.

Midwest Energy Emissions Corp. (the “Company") was organized under the laws of the State of Utah on July 19, 1983 under the name of Digicorp. Pursuant to shareholder approval, on October 6, 2006, the Board of Directors of the Company approved and authorized the Company to enter into an Agreement and Plan of Merger by and between the Company and Digicorp, Inc., a Delaware corporation and newly formed wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company that was incorporated under the Delaware General Corporation Law for the purpose of effecting a change of domicile. Effective February 22, 2007, the Company changed its domicile from Utah to Delaware with the name of the surviving corporation being Digicorp, Inc.

Pursuant to a Certificate of Amendment to our Certificate of Incorporation filed with the State of Delaware, which took effect as of October 16, 2008, the Company's name changed from "Digicorp, Inc." to "China Youth Media, Inc."

Reverse Merger

On June 21, 2011, the Company entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Merger Agreement”) with Midwest Energy Emissions Corp., a North Dakota corporation (“Midwest Energy Emissions”) pursuant to which, at closing, China Youth Media Merger Sub, Inc., the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary formed for the purpose of such transaction (the “Merger Sub”), would merge into Midwest Energy Emissions, the result of which Midwest Energy Emissions would become the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary (the “Merger”). The Merger closed effective on June 21, 2011 (the “Closing”). As a result of the Closing and the Merger, the Merger Sub merged with and into Midwest Energy Emissions with Midwest Energy Emissions surviving. Effective at the time of the Closing, Midwest Energy Emissions changed its name to MES, Inc. For accounting purposes, the Merger was treated as a reverse merger and a recapitalization of the Company. See Note 5 for further discussion.

Pursuant to a Certificate of Amendment to our Certificate of Incorporation filed with the State of Delaware and effective as of October 7, 2011, the Company (i) changed its corporate name from “China Youth Media, Inc.” to “Midwest Energy Emissions Corp.”, and (ii) effected a reverse stock split of all the outstanding shares of our common stock at an exchange ratio of one for one hundred ten (1:110) (the “Reverse Stock Split”) and changed the number of our authorized shares of common stock, par value $.001 per share, from 500,000,000 to 100,000,000.

Midwest Energy Emissions Corp. (now known as MES, Inc.)

On December 17, 2008, Midwest Energy Emissions Corp. (a corporation in the development stage) was incorporated in the State of North Dakota. Midwest Energy Emissions is engaged in the business of developing and commercializing state of the art control technologies relating to the capture and control of mercury emissions from coal fired boilers in the United States and Canada.
 
 
F-6

 

Dissolution of subsidiaries

Pursuant to the terms of the Merger Agreement, during the year ended December 31, 2012 the Company dissolved the following foreign entities:
 
 
· Youth Media (BVI) Ltd.
 
· Youth Media (Hong Kong) Limited
 
· Youth Media (Beijing) Limited
 
Rebel Crew Films, Inc. is now dormant while the Company evaluates its future usefulness to the Company.

The operations and cash flows of these subsidiaries have been eliminated from the accounts of the Company’s ongoing operations and major classes of assets and liabilities related thereto have been segregated. The gains and losses from discontinued operations, including the impairment of certain assets of discontinued operations and gains from forgiveness of liabilities, have been reflected in the consolidated financial statements. The Company does not expect to derive any revenues from the discontinued operations in the future and does not expect to incur any significant ongoing operating expenses. 

Note 2 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
 
Basis of Presentation
 
The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America ("GAAP").

Development Stage Company
 
The Company is considered to be in the development stage as defined by Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 915 Development Stage Entities. The Company has devoted substantially all of its efforts to the corporate formation, the raising of capital and attempting to generate customers for the sale of the Company’s products.
 
Use of Estimates
 
The preparation of condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Cash and Cash Equivalents
 
The Company considers all highly liquid debt instruments and other short-term investments with maturity of three months or less, when purchased, to be cash equivalents. The Company maintains its cash in one account with one financial institution, which at times may exceed federally insured limits.
 
 
F-7

 
 
Foreign Currency Risk Management

The Company’s earnings and cash flow are subject to fluctuations due to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. We do not enter into foreign currency forward contracts or into foreign currency option contracts to manage this risk due to the immaterial nature of the transactions involved.

Accounts Receivable

Trade accounts receivable are stated at the amount the Company expects to collect. The Company maintains allowances for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of its customers to make required payments. Management considers the following factors when determining the collectability of specific customer accounts: customer credit-worthiness, past transaction history with the customer, current economic industry trends, and changes in customer payment terms. Past due balances over 90 days and other higher risk amounts are reviewed individually for collectability. If the financial condition of the Company’s customers were to deteriorate, adversely affecting their ability to make payments, additional allowances would be required. Based on management’s assessment, the Company provides for estimated uncollectible amounts through a charge to earnings and a credit to a valuation allowance. Balances that remain outstanding after the Company has used reasonable collection efforts are written off through a charge to the valuation allowance and a credit to accounts receivable.
 
Inventory

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out basis) or market (net realizable value).

Property and Equipment
 
Property and equipment are stated at cost. When retired or otherwise disposed, the related carrying value and accumulated depreciation are removed from the respective accounts and the net difference less any amount realized from disposition, is reflected in earnings. For consolidated financial statement purposes, property and equipment are recorded at cost and depreciated using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives of 3 to 5 years.

Expenditures for repairs and maintenance which do not materially extend the useful lives of property and equipment are charged to operations. Management periodically reviews the carrying value of its property and equipment for impairment.

The Company capitalizes interest cost on borrowings incurred during the new construction or upgrade of qualifying assets. Capitalized interest is added to the cost of the underlying assets and is amortized over the useful lives of the assets.

Recoverability of Long-Lived and Intangible Assets
 
The Company has adopted ASC 360-10, Property, Plant and Equipment (“ASC 360-10”). ASC 360-10 requires that long-lived assets and certain identifiable intangibles held and used by the Company be reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable.
 
Events relating to recoverability may include significant unfavorable changes in business conditions, recurring losses or a forecasted inability to achieve break-even operating results over an extended period. The Company evaluates the recoverability of long-lived assets based upon forecasted undiscounted cash flows. Should impairment in value be indicated, the carrying value of the long-lived and or intangible assets would be adjusted, based on estimates of future discounted cash flows. The Company evaluated the recoverability of the carrying value of the Company’s equipment at the site of its first commercial customer. Based on a review of the discounted expected cash flows associated with the value of the contract with the customer, impairment charges were recorded during the year ended December 31, 2012 against the value of the equipment (see Note 5).
 
 
F-8

 

Stock-Based Compensation
 
The Company accounts for stock-based compensation awards in accordance with the provisions of ASC 718, Compensation—Stock Compensation (“ASC 718”), which requires equity-based compensation, be reflected in the consolidated financial statements over the period of service which is typically the vesting period based on the estimated fair value of the awards.
 
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
 
The fair value hierarchy has three levels based on the inputs used to determine fair value, which are as follows:
 
·  
Level 1 — Unadjusted quoted prices available in active markets for the identical assets or liabilities at the measurement date.
·  
Level 2 — Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for similar assets or liabilities, or unadjusted quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, or inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability.
·  
Level 3 — Unobservable inputs that cannot be corroborated by observable market data and reflect the use of significant management judgment. These values are generally determined using pricing models for which the assumptions utilize management’s estimates of market participant assumptions.

The fair value hierarchy requires the use of observable market data when available. In instances where the inputs used to measure fair value fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy, the fair value measurement has been determined based on the lowest level input significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The Company’s assessment of the significance of a particular item to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, including the consideration of inputs specific to the asset or liability.

The only asset or liability measured at fair value on a recurring basis by the Company at March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 was cash and cash equivalents, which are considered to be Level 1.

Financial instruments include cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, accrued expenses, advances payable from related parties and short-term debt. The carrying amounts of these financial instruments approximated fair value at March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 due to their short-term maturities. The fair value of the convertible promissory notes payable at March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 approximated the carrying amount as the notes were issued during the quarter ended March 31, 2014 and year ended December 31, 2013 at current interest rates. The fair value of the convertible promissory notes payable was determined on a Level 2 measurement.
 
Foreign Currency Transactions
 
The Company's functional currency is the United States Dollar (the "US Dollar"). Transactions denominated in currencies other than the US Dollar are re-measured to the US Dollar at the period-end exchange rates. Any associated transactional currency re-measurement gains and losses are recognized in current operations.

 
F-9

 
 
Revenue Recognition
 
The Company records revenue from sales in accordance with ASC 605, Revenue Recognition (“ASC 605”). The criteria for recognition are as follows:
 
1. Persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists;
 
2. Delivery has occurred or services have been rendered;
 
3. The seller’s price to the buyer is fixed or determinable; and
 
4. Collectability is reasonably assured.

Determination of criteria (3) and (4) will be based on management's judgments regarding the fixed nature of the selling prices of the products delivered and the collectability of those amounts. Provisions for discounts and rebates to customers, estimated returns and allowances, and other adjustments will be provided for in the same period the related sales are recorded.

The Company recorded customer acquisition costs totaling $1,120,500 during the quarter ended March 31, 2014.  The Company entered into supply and equipment agreements with three new customers during this period.  The Company’s financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2013 showed an account receivable for one of these new customers in the amount of $150,000, which resulted from a demonstration performed for that customer in 2013.  In accordance with the contractual arrangement with that customer, because they entered into a long-term contract with the Company, the customer’s account was credited for the full amount of the demonstration fee. Additional customer credits towards future deliveries of product totaling $970,500 were accrued in the first quarter of 2014 in accordance with the terms of the customer contracts entered into in the first quarter with those new customers.  Customer acquisition costs will be amortized over the life of the new customer agreements.
 
In accordance with the terms of two of the new customer agreements, the Company made progress billings to two customers a total of $1,075,200, which relate to the future fabrication, delivery and installation of new equipment.  This amount is included in unearned revenue at March 31, 2014 and will be shown as revenue in 2014 and 2015 when the equipment is delivered and commissioned for use by the customer.
 
The Company generated revenues of $0 and $55,446 for the quarters ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The Company generated revenue for the quarter ended March 31, 2013 by delivering product to its first commercial customer for use in the systems operations.

Income Taxes

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the consolidated financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets, including tax loss and credit carryforwards, and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Deferred income tax expense represents the change during the period in the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities. The components of the deferred tax assets and liabilities are individually classified as current and non-current based on their characteristics. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when, in the opinion of management, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.

The recognition, measurement and disclosure of uncertain tax positions recognized in an enterprise’s consolidated financial statements are based on a more-likely-than-not recognition threshold. The Company did not have any unrecognized tax benefits at March 31, 2014 or December 31, 2013. When necessary, the Company would accrue penalties and interest related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense.

The Company and its subsidiaries file a consolidated income tax return in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and three state jurisdictions. The Company is no longer subject to U.S. federal examinations for years prior to 2010 or state tax examinations for years prior to 2009. Prior to the Reverse Merger, MES, Inc. was taxed as an S corporation and income and losses were passed through to the stockholders.
 
 
F-10

 

Basic and Diluted Loss Per Common Share
 
Basic net loss per common share is computed using the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted loss per share reflects the potential dilution from common stock equivalents, such as stock issuable pursuant to the exercise of stock options and warrants. There were no dilutive potential common shares as of March 31, 2014 or December 31 2013, because the Company incurred net losses and basic and diluted losses per common share are the same.
 
Concentration of Credit Risk

Financial instruments that subject the Company to credit risk consist of cash and equivalents on deposit with financial institutions and accounts receivable. The Company’s cash as of March 31, 2014 is on deposit in a non-interest-bearing transaction account that is subject to FDIC deposit insurance limits. For the quarter ended March 31, 2013, 100% of the Company’s revenue related to one customer. At March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, 100% of the Company’s accounts receivable related to one and three customers, respectively.

Contingencies

Certain conditions may exist which may result in a loss to the Company, but which will only be resolved when one or more future events occur or fail to occur. The Company’s management and its legal counsel assess such contingent liabilities, and such assessment inherently involves an exercise of judgment. In assessing loss contingencies related to legal proceedings that are pending against the Company, or unasserted claims that may result in such proceedings, the Company’s legal counsel evaluates the perceived merits of any legal proceedings or unasserted claims as well as the perceived merits of the amount of relief sought or expected to be sought therein.

If the assessment of a contingency indicates that it is probable that a material loss has been incurred and the amount of the liability can be estimated, the estimated liability would be accrued in the Company’s consolidated financial statements. If the assessment indicates that a potentially material loss contingency is not probable but is reasonably possible, or is probable but cannot be estimated, the nature of the contingent liability, together with an estimate of the range of possible loss if determinable and material, would be disclosed.

Loss contingencies considered remote are generally not disclosed unless they arise from guarantees, in which case the guarantees would be disclosed.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards
 
In July 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-11, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists. The update provides that an unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, should be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward, except as follows. To the extent a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward is not available at the reporting date under the tax law of the applicable jurisdiction to settle any additional income taxes that would result from the disallowance of a tax position or the tax law of the applicable jurisdiction does not require the entity to use, and the entity does not intend to use, the deferred tax asset for such purpose, the unrecognized tax benefit should be presented in the financial statements as a liability and should not be combined with deferred tax assets. The assessment of whether a deferred tax asset is available is based on the unrecognized tax benefit and deferred tax asset that exist at the reporting date and should be made presuming disallowance of the tax position at the reporting date. The amendments in this update do not require new recurring disclosures. The amendments are effective prospectively for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2013. The Company adopted this standard in the quarter ended March 31, 2014. The adoption of this standard did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements since the Company has no items of other comprehensive income in 2014.
 
 
F-11

 

Reclassification

Certain amounts in the prior year have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation.

Note 3 - Going Concern
 
The accompanying consolidated financial statements as of March 31, 2014 have been prepared assuming the Company will continue as a going concern. From the period of inception of MES, Inc. (incorporated on December 17, 2008 through March 31, 2014, the Company has experienced a net loss, negative cash flows from operations and has an accumulated deficit of $22,133,386. These factors raise substantial doubt about the Company's ability to continue as a going concern. The Company intends to raise near term financing to fund future operations through a restricted stock or convertible debt-to-equity offering. The Company intends to raise additional equity or debt financing to fund future operations. There is no assurance that its plan can be implemented; or that the results will be of a sufficient level necessary to meet the Company’s ongoing cash needs. No assurances can be given that the Company can obtain sufficient working capital through borrowings or that the continued implementation of its business plan will generate sufficient revenues in the future to sustain ongoing operations.
 
The accompanying consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments to reflect the possible future effects on the recoverability and classification of assets or the amounts and classifications of liabilities that may result from the possible inability of the Company to continue as a going concern.

Note 4 - Inventory

 As of March 31, 2013, the Company had begun the production of equipment to be sold to two new customers. $940,817 of costs were incurred for component purchases and progress billings from subcontractors on these projects. These costs will be recorded as cost of sales during 2014 and 2015 when the equipment is delivered and commissioned for use by the customer.
 
Note 5 - Property And Equipment, Net
 
Property and equipment at March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 are as follows:
 
   
March 31,
   
December 31,
 
   
2014
   
2013
 
             
Equipment & Installation
  $ 717,918     $ 717,918  
Office equipment
    23,941       23,941  
Computer equipment
    11,985       11,985  
Total Equipment 
    753,844       753,844  
                 
Less: accumulated depreciation
    622,808       580,772  
Property and equipment, net
  $ 131,036     $ 173,072  
 
 
F-12

 
 
The Company uses the straight-line method of depreciation over 3 to 5 years. During the year ended December 31, 2011, the Company installed equipment with a total cost of $1,499,080 at the site of its first commercial customer in Centralia, Washington. This equipment is subject to a bargain purchase option on January 1st, 2015 and the Company also bears the cost of asset retirement at the end of the commercial contract should the customer not exercise the purchase option. The Company believes that if required to retire, the scrap value of the equipment would offset the cost of removal. During 2012 the Company recorded an impairment charges totaling $800,000 against the value of the equipment. During the quarters ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, depreciation expense charged to operations was $42,036 and $42,628.

Note 6 - License Agreement
 
On January 15, 2009, the Company entered into an "Exclusive Patent and Know-How License Agreement Including Transfer of Ownership" with the Energy and Environmental Research Center Foundation, a non-profit entity (“EERCF”). Under the terms of the Agreement, the Company has been granted an exclusive license by EERCF for the technology to develop, make, have made, use, sell, offer to sell, lease, and import the technology in any coal-fired combustion systems (power plant) worldwide and to develop and perform the technology in any coal-fired power plant in the world. Amendment No. 4 to this agreement was made effective as of December 16, 2013 expanding the number of patents covered, eliminated certain contract provisions and compliance issues and restructured the fee payments and buyout provisions while granting EERCF equity in the Company. This agreement now applies to 25 domestic and foreign patents and patent applications.

The Company paid EERCF $100,000 in 2009 for the license to use the patents and at the option of the Company can pay $2,500,000 and issue 875,000 shares of common stock for the assignment of the patents or pay the greater of the license maintenance fees or royalties on product sales for continued use of the patents. The license maintenance fees are $25,000 due monthly beginning in January 1, 2014 and continuing each month thereafter. The running royalties are $100 per one megawatt of electronic nameplate capacity and $100 per three megawatt per hour for the application to thermal systems to which licensed products or licensed processes are sold by the Company, associate and sublicensees. Running royalties are payable by the Company within 30 days after the end of each calendar year to the licensor and may be credited against license maintenance fees paid. There were no royalties due for the quarters ended March 31, 2014 or 2013.
 
The Company is required to pay EERCF 35% of all sublicense income received by the Company, excluding royalties on sales by sublicensees. Sublicense income is payable by the Company within 30 day after the end of each calendar year to the licensor. This requirement ends at the time the Company pays for the assignment of the patents. There was no sublicense income in the quarters ended March 31, 2014 or 2013.

License costs capitalized as of March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 are as follows:
 
   
2014
   
2013
 
             
License
  $ 100,000     $ 100,000  
Less: accumulated amortization
    30,882       29,411  
License, net
  $ 69,118     $ 70,589  
 
The Company is currently amortizing its license to use EERCF’s patents over their estimated useful life of 17 years when acquired. During the quarters ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, amortization expense charged to operations was $1,471. Estimated amortization for each of the next five years is approximately $5,900.
 
 
F-13

 

Note 7 - Convertible Note Payable

On March 30, 2011, the Company entered into an agreement with an unrelated third party pursuant to which such party agreed to assist the Company to effect a reverse merger or similar transaction with an operating business to be identified as the parties shall mutually agree. Such party agreed to immediately loan the Company the principal amount of $50,000 which shall be due and payable in one year, bear interest at the rate of 8.0% per annum, and be convertible into shares of common stock of the Company at the rate of $0.44 per share at the option of such party at any time following an exclusivity period granted to such party and until the maturity date of the loan. On February 5, 2014, the Company issued 139,319 shares of common stock pursuant to an executed Conversion and Settlement Agreement in satisfaction of the outstanding principal balance of $50,000 and accrued interest totaling $11,300. Interest expense for the quarters ended March 31, 2014 and 2013 was $ 264 and $1,000, respectively.

Note 8 - Notes Payable

Effective June 30, 2013, Tucker Ellis LLP accepted a promissory note in the amount of $300,000 from the Company in exchange for outstanding billings due of the same amount. The Company shall make quarterly interest payments beginning September 30, 2013 at a fixed interest rate of 5% and continuing on a quarterly basis until maturity. The Company is require to (i) stay current on Tucker Ellis LLP’s ongoing monthly invoices and (ii) make principal payments pursuant to the agreement based on the issuance of debt or equity securities. The promissory note matures on June 30, 2015. Interest expense for the quarter ended March 31, 2014 was $3,750.

Note 9 - Advances Payable – Related Party
 
On June 27, 2013 the Company entered into a Conversion Agreement with Richard MacPherson, a director of the Company, and 3253517 Nova Scotia Limited, of which Mr. MacPherson is the sole member (the “Nova Scotia Company”). Pursuant to the Conversion Agreement the Company converted advances payable from Mr. MacPherson, into 12% Convertible Promissory Notes (the “Notes”). Immediately prior to this conversion, Mr. MacPherson assigned and transferred $614,012 of his interest in the principal owing on certain advances payable to Nova Scotia Company (the “Nova Scotia Debt”), leaving a balance of the principal due and owing to Mr. MacPherson of $337,022 (the “MacPherson Debt”). Under the Conversion Agreement the Nova Scotia Company converted the Nova Scotia Debt into $614,012 of Notes of the Company and Mr. MacPherson converted $252,199 of the MacPherson Debt into $252,199 of the Notes of the Company, which shall be due and payable on the third anniversary of the date of issue and shall be convertible into units of the Company at a conversion price of $0.50 per unit with each unit consisting of one share of common stock of the Company and one warrant to purchase 0.25 additional shares of Common Stock at $0.75 per share. In addition, pursuant to the Conversion Agreement Mr. MacPherson agreed to forgive $80,656 on the MacPherson Debt. The remaining principal balance of $4,167 bears interest at 9% per annum, has no fixed terms of repayment and is unsecured. Accrued interest on these advances at March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 was $216,472 and $216,378, respectively. Interest expense for the quarters ended March 31, 2014 and 2013 was $94 and $21,398, respectively.

Note 10 - Convertible Promissory Notes Payable

From April 26, 2012 to January 24, 2013, the Company sold convertible notes to unaffiliated accredited investors totaling $2,675,244. The notes have a term of three years, bear interest at 12% per annum, and are convertible into units, where each unit consists of: (i) one share of common stock of the Issuer, par value $0.001 per share, and (ii) a warrant to purchase 0.25 shares of common stock of the Issuer at an exercise price of $1.25 per share. The initial conversion ratio shall be equal to $1.00 per unit. The notes may be converted at any time and from time to time in whole or in part prior to the maturity date thereof. These securities were sold in reliance upon the exemption provided by Section 4(2) of the Securities Act and the safe harbor of Rule 506 under Regulation D promulgated under the Securities Act. On March 19, 2014, the Company converted $25,000 of these notes into 25,000 shares of common stock and 6,250 warrants to purchase shares of common stock (see Note 11). Accrued interest of $301,165 was converted to principal by the Company during 2013. Accrued interest on these advances at December 31, 2013 was $178,585, and was converted to principal by the Company on January 1, 2014. Accrued interest at March 31, 2014 on these notes was $94,249. Interest expense for the quarters ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, was $94,249 and $83,416, respectively. 
 
 
F-14

 

From April 5 through May 10, 2013, the Company sold convertible notes to unaffiliated accredited investors totaling $405,000. The notes have a term of three years, bear interest at 12% per annum, and are convertible into units, where each unit consists of: (i) 1 share of common stock of the Issuer, par value $0.001 per share, and (ii) a warrant to purchase 0.25 shares of common stock of the Issuer at an exercise price of $0.75 per share. The initial conversion ratio shall be equal to $0.50 per unit. The notes may be converted at any time and from time to time in whole or in part prior to the maturity date thereof. These securities were sold in reliance upon the exemption provided by Section 4(2) of the Securities Act and the safe harbor of Rule 506 under Regulation D promulgated under the Securities Act. Accrued interest on these advances at December 31, 2013 was $32,127, and was converted to principal by the Company on January 1, 2014. Accrued interest at March 31, 2014 on these notes was $13,114. Interest expense for the quarter ended March 31, 2014 was $13,114. 

On June 27 and June 30, 2013, the Company converted advances payable from related parties (see Note 9 and Note 10) into convertible notes totaling $1,036,195. The notes have a term of three years, bear interest at 12% per annum, and are convertible into units, where each unit consists of: (i) 1 share of common stock of the Issuer, par value $0.001 per share, and (ii) a warrant to purchase 0.25 shares of common stock of the Issuer at an exercise price of $0.75 per share. The initial conversion ratio shall be equal to $0.50 per unit. The notes may be converted at any time and from time to time in whole or in part prior to the maturity date thereof. These securities were issued in reliance upon the exemption provided by Section 4(2) of the Securities Act and the safe harbor of Rule 506 under Regulation D promulgated under the Securities Act. On July 12, 2013, the Company converted $866,211 of these notes, along with accrued interest of $4,331, into 1,741,084 shares of common stock and 435,271 warrants to purchase shares of common stock (see Note 12). Accrued interest at December 31, 2013 was $10,256, and was converted to principal by the Company on January 1, 2014. Accrued interest at March 31, 2014 on these notes was $5,407. Interest expense for the quarter ended March 31, 2014 was $5,407. 

From July 30, 2013 through December 24, 2013, the Company sold convertible notes and warrants to unaffiliated accredited investors totaling $1,902,500. The notes have a term of three years, bear interest at 10% per annum, and are convertible into one share of common stock, par value $0.001 per share, with the initial conversion ratio equal to $0.50 per share. For each dollar invested, the investor received two warrants to purchase one shares of common stock of the Issuer at an exercise price of $0.75 per share. The notes may be converted at any time and from time to time in whole or in part prior to the maturity date thereof. These securities were sold in reliance upon the exemption provided by Section 4(2) of the Securities Act and the safe harbor of Rule 506 under Regulation D promulgated under the Securities Act. On January 30, 2014, the Company converted $27,500 of these notes, along with accrued interest of $347, into 55,695 shares of common stock (see Note 11). Accrued interest at December 31, 2013 and interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2013 on these notes was $52,910, and was paid with the issuance of 87,144 shares of common stock in January 2014. Accrued interest at March 31, 2014 on these notes was $46,875. Interest expense for the quarter ended March 31, 2014 was $47,222. A discount on the notes payable of $841,342 was recorded based on the value of the warrants issued using a Black-Scholes options pricing model. Amortized interest expense for quarter ended March 31, 2014 and the year ended December 31, 2013 on this discount was $69,088 and $63,122, respectively.
 
 
F-15

 

Note 11 - Commitments and Contingencies

As discussed in Note 6, the Company has entered in an “Exclusive Patent and Know-How License Agreement Including Transfer of Ownership” that requires minimum license maintenance costs. The Company plans to use the intellectual property consisting of patents granted under the license agreement for the foreseeable future. The license agreement is considered expired on October 14, 2025, the date the patent expires. Future minimum maintenance fee payments are as follows:
 
Twelve months ended March 31,
     
2014
  $ 225,000  
2015
    300,000  
2016
    300,000  
2017
    300,000  
2018
    300,000  
2019
    300,000  
Thereafter
    1,975,000  
    $ 3,475,000  
 
The Company has the option to pay $2,500,000 and issue 875,000 shares of common stock for the assignment of the patents, and upon doing so, the requirement to make minimum license maintenance costs ends.

Property Leases
 
On June 1, 2011, the Company entered into a 36 month lease for warehouse space in Centralia, Washington, commencing August 1, 2011. The lease provides for the option to extend the lease on a month to month basis.  Rent is $1,900 monthly throughout the term of the lease.
 
On October 18, 2011, the Company entered into a 39-month lease for office space in Worthington, Ohio, commencing November 15, 2011. The lease provides for the option to extend the lease under its current terms for three additional years. Rent was abated for the first three months of the lease. Rent is $1,933 per month for months four through fifteen, $1,968 for months 16 through twenty-seven and $2,002 for months twenty-eight through thirty-nine.
 
The Company also leases office space in Grand Forks, ND, which has a renewable annual term and requires quarterly rental payments of $1,259.

Future minimum lease payments under these non-cancelable leases are approximately as follows:
 
2014
  $ 25,620  
2015
    4,004  
    $ 29,624  
 
Rent expense was approximately $12,000 and $17,000 for the quarters ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Fixed Price Contract

The Company’s contract with its first commercial customer contains a fixed price for product for three years. This contract exposes the Company to the potential risks associated with rising material costs during that same period.
 
 
F-16

 

Litigation

On March 20, 2014, Michael Yurisic filed a breach of contract complaint against the Company in the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania. The complaint seeks a remedy of the delivery of 342,340 shares of the Company’s common stock. The Company intends to defend the allegations in Mr. Yurisic’s complaint. In addition, the Company believes that any obligation to Mr. Yurisic is properly the responsibility of Rick MacPherson, the founder of the Company and currently a director.

Note 12 - Equity

The Company was established with two classes of stock, common stock – 100,000,000 shares authorized at a par value of $0.001 and preferred stock – 2,000,000 shares authorized at a par value of $0.001.

On July 12, 2013, the Company, upon conversion of a promissory note dated June 27, 2013, issued 506,920 shares of common stock and 126,730 warrants to purchase common shares to Richard MacPherson, a member of the Company’s Board of Directors, pursuant to a notice of conversion received by the Company from Mr. MacPherson to convert a promissory note held by Mr. MacPherson with a principal balance of $252,199 and accrued interest of $1,261 into 506,920 units of the Company, with each unit consisting of one share of common stock of the Company and one warrant to purchase 0.25 additional shares of common stock at $0.75 per share.

On July 12, 2013, the Company, upon conversion of a promissory note dated June 27, 2013, issued 1,234,164 shares of common stock and 308,541 warrants to purchase common shares to Nova Scotia Company, pursuant to a notice of conversion received from Nova Scotia Company to convert a promissory note held by Nova Scotia Company with a principal balance of $614,012 and accrued interest of $3,070 into 1,234,164 units of the Company, with each unit consisting of one share of common stock of the Company and one warrant to purchase 0.25 additional shares of common stock at $0.75 per share.

In January 2014, the Company issued 962,500 shares of common stock to the EERCF and 412,500 shares of common stock to four individuals pursuant to Amendment No. 4 to the Exclusive Patent and Know-How License Agreement Including Transfer of Ownership dated January 15, 2009 (see Note 6). The amendment was made effective December 16, 2013 and the stock grant was valued as of that date at $825,000 in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718.
 
On January 27, 2014, the Company issued 769,296 shares of common stock upon the cashless exercise of 983,000 warrants to purchase shares of common stock for $0.50 per share based on a current market value of $2.30 per share as determined under the terms of the warrant.

On January 28, 2014, the Company issued 87,144 shares of common stock to the holders of notes with a term of three years, bear interest at 10% per annum, and are convertible into one share of common stock, par value $0.001 per share, with the initial conversion ratio equal to $0.50 per share, as payment for accrued interest of $43,572 due as of December 31, 2013.

On January 28, 2014, the Company issued 399,525 shares of common stock upon the cashless exercise of 570,500 warrants to purchase shares of common stock for $0.75 per share based on a current market value of $2.50 per share as determined under the terms of the warrant.

On January 30, 2014, the Company issued 55,695 shares of common stock upon the conversion of a note with principal and accrued interest totaling $27,847, that bear interest at 10% per annum, and was convertible into one share of common stock, par value $0.001 per share, with a conversion ratio equal to $0.50 per share.
 
 
F-17

 

On January 31, 2014, the Company issued 25,000 shares of common stock to an unrelated third party pursuant to an executed agreement to provide public relations and investor relations services. The shares were valued at $52,500.

On February 5, 2014, the Company issued 139,319 shares of common stock to an unrelated third party pursuant to an executed Conversion and Settlement Agreement in satisfaction of the outstanding principal balance of $50,000 and accrued interest totaling $11,300 (see Note 7).

Note 13 - Stock Based Compensation

Effective July 20, 2005, the Board of Directors of the Company approved the 2005 Stock Option and Restricted Stock Plan (the “2005 Plan”). The 2005 Plan reserves approximately 136,364 shares of common stock for grants of incentive stock options, nonqualified stock options, warrants and restricted stock awards to employees, non-employee directors and consultants performing services for the Company. Options and warrants granted under the 2005 Plan have an exercise price equal to or greater than the fair market value of the underlying common stock at the date of grant and become exercisable based on a vesting schedule determined at the date of grant. The options expire 10 years from the date of grant whereas warrants generally expire 5 years from the date of grant. Restricted stock awards granted under the 2005 Plan are subject to a vesting period determined at the date of grant.

On May 6, 2009, the Board of Directors adopted, subject to stockholder approval, which was obtained at the annual stockholders meeting held on June 19, 2009, an amendment to the 2005 Plan that increased the number of shares subject to the Stock Plan. The total number of shares subject to the Stock Plan was revised to 454,545.

On January 10, 2014, the Board of Directors of the Company approved and adopted the Midwest Energy Emissions Corp. 2014 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Equity Plan”). The number of shares of the Company’s Common Stock that may be issued under the Equity Plan is 2,500,000 shares, subject to the adjustment for stock dividends, stock splits, recapitalizations and similar corporate events. Eligible participants under the Equity Plan shall include officers, employees of or consultants to the Company or any of its subsidiaries, or any person to whom an offer of employment is extended, or any person who is a non-employee director of the Company.

The Company accounts for stock-based compensation awards in accordance with the provisions of ASC 718, which addresses the accounting for employee stock options which requires that the cost of all employee stock options, as well as other equity-based compensation arrangements, be reflected in the consolidated financial statements over the vesting period based on the estimated fair value of the awards. 

 
F-18

 
 
A summary of stock option activity for the quarter ended March 31, 2014 is presented below:
 
   
Outstanding Options
 
                         
   
Number of Shares
   
Weighted Average Exercise Price
   
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (years)
   
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
 
December 31, 2013
    385,458       10.83       5.2       -  
Grants
    1,640,000       1.06       5.0       -  
Cancellations
    -       -       -       -  
March 31, 2014
    2,025,458       2.21       4.8       -  
                                 
Options exercisable at:
                               
December 31, 2013
    385,458       10.83       5.2          
March 31, 2014
    2,025,458       2.21       4.8          
 
The Company utilized the Black-Scholes options pricing model.
 
On March 16, 2011, Midwest Energy Emissions issued 50 shares to a consultant for a value of $125,000. The shares were valued at $2,500 per share upon Midwest Energy Emissions' then most recently completed equity financing transactions. These shares were converted into Series B Convertible Preferred Stock upon completion of the Merger on June 21, 2011.
 
In connection with the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement, and pursuant to Midwest Energy Emissions’ obligations under a Business Consulting Agreement dated March 18, 2011, on July 6, 2011, the Company issued 45,455 shares of our common stock to Eastern Sky, LLC as compensation for consulting services rendered in connection with the transaction. The shares were valued at $77,500.

On July 6, 2011, the Company issued 18,258 shares of our common stock to The Lebrecht Group, APLC as compensation for legal services rendered in connection with the Merger Agreement. The shares were valued at $31,130.

On January 2, 2013, the Company issued Jana Stover 68,468 shares to settle accrued consulting services performed in 2011. Compensation of $106,125 was recognized in 2011 related to the services performed.

Effective as of June 29, 2012 the Company and Ken Rifkin entered into a Consulting Agreement (the “Agreement”). Ken Rifkin is the brother of Jay Rifkin, a Company director. As compensation for Mr. Rifkin’s performance of consulting services over a three month period ending on September 29, 2012, the Company issued 100,000 shares of the Company’s unregistered common shares to Mr. Rifkin on March 5, 2013, upon receipt of the appropriate stock grant agreement from Mr. Rifkin. Compensation of $135,000 was recognized in 2012 related to this agreement.

On July 1, 2012, the Company and R. Alan Kelley entered into an amended employment agreement (the “New Kelley Employment Agreement”) that replaced and terminated the then existing employment agreement between Mr. Kelley and the Company, dated November 1, 2011. Pursuant to the terminated employment agreement, Mr. Kelley was to receive 500,000 unvested shares of common stock as a signing bonus. These shares were to have vested on November 1, 2012 and are valued at $525,000 in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718. Under the New Kelley Employment Agreement, the Company will issue to Mr. Kelley 650,000 shares of common stock upon the earlier of a change in control of the Company or January 1, 2014 (the “Stock Grant”) provided that Mr. Kelley remains an employee of the Company on January 1, 2014. In addition, the Company will make the Stock Grant to Mr. Kelley if his employment is terminated without cause, if he resigns for good reason, or on his death or disability. The Stock Grant is valued at $1,300,000 in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718, and the difference from the previous valuation will be amortized from the date of the agreement through grant date. On December 12, 2013, the Company and Mr. Kelley entered into an amendment to the New Kelley Employment Agreement (“Kelley Agreement Amendment”). Pursuant to the Kelley Agreement Amendment, Mr. Kelley will receive 650,000 stock unit awards, which replaces the Stock Grant that was to be made on January 1, 2014, provided that Mr. Kelley remains an employee on that date. Such stock units will vest and become non-forfeitable upon the earlier of a change in control of the Company or when the Company has a minimum of $3.5 million in working capital and its cash position equals or exceeds $2.5 million after deducting the amount sufficient to cover all federal, state and local taxes required by law to be withheld with respect to the stock units vesting and will be for forfeited if the conditions have not been met by January 1, 2017. The modification of this award did not result in incremental compensation in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718, and no additional expense will be recorded for this grant. Compensation expense for the quarters ended March 31, 2014 and 2013 on the New Kelley Employment Agreement was zero and $129,000, respectively.
 
 
F-19

 

On July 1, 2012, the Company and Johnny F. Norris, Jr. entered into an amended employment agreement (the “New Norris Employment Agreement”) that replaced and terminated the then existing employment agreement between Mr. Norris and the Company, dated October 17, 2011. Pursuant to the terminated employment agreement, Mr. Norris was to receive 1,500,000 unvested shares of common stock as a signing bonus. These shares were to have vested 1/3 on October 1, 2012, 1/3 on October 1, 2013 and 1/3 on October 1, 2014 and are valued at $2,805,300 in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718. Under the New Norris Employment Agreement, the Company will issue to Mr. Norris 1,500,000 shares of common stock upon the earlier of a change in control of the Company or January 1, 2014 (the “Stock Grant”) provided that Mr. Norris remains an employee of the Company on January 1, 2014. In addition, the Company will make the Stock Grant to Mr. Norris if his employment is terminated without cause, if he resigns for good reason, or on his death or disability. The Stock Grant is valued at $3,000,000 in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718, and the difference from the previous valuation will be amortized from the date of the agreement through grant date. On December 12, 2013, the Company and Mr. Norris entered into an amendment to the New Norris Employment Agreement (“Norris Agreement Amendment”). Pursuant to the Norris Agreement Amendment, Mr. Norris will receive 1,500,000 stock unit awards, which replaces the Stock Grant that was to be made on January 1, 2014, provided that Mr. Norris remains an employee on that date. Such stock units will vest and become non-forfeitable upon the earlier of a change in control of the Company or when the Company has a minimum of $3.5 million in working capital and its cash position equals or exceeds $2.5 million after deducting the amount sufficient to cover all federal, state and local taxes required by law to be withheld with respect to the stock units vesting and will be for forfeited if the conditions have not been met by January 1, 2017. The modification of this award did not result in incremental compensation in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718, and no additional expense will be recorded for this grant. Compensation expense for the quarters ended March 31, 2014 and 2013 on the New Norris Employment Agreement was zero and $32,000, respectively.

On July 1, 2012, the Company and Richard H. Gross entered into an amended employment agreement (the “New Gross Employment Agreement”) that replaced and terminated the then existing employment agreement between Mr. Gross and the Company, dated September 19, 2011. Pursuant to the terminated employment agreement, Mr. Gross was to receive 50,000 unvested shares of common stock as a signing bonus. These shares were to have vested on October 10, 2012 and are valued at $93,500 in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718. Under the New Gross Employment Agreement, the Company will issue to Mr. Gross 100,000 shares of common stock upon the earlier of a change in control of the Company or January 1, 2014 (the “Stock Grant”) provided that Mr. Gross remains an employee of the Company on January 1, 2014. In addition, the Company will make the Stock Grant to Mr. Gross if his employment is terminated without cause, if he resigns for good reason, or on his death or disability. The Stock Grant is valued at $200,000 in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718, and the difference from the previous valuation will be amortized from the date of the agreement through grant date. On December 12, 2013, the Company and Mr. Gross entered into an amendment to the New Gross Employment Agreement (“Gross Agreement Amendment”). Pursuant to the Gross Agreement Amendment, Mr. Gross will receive 100,000 stock unit awards, which replaces the Stock Grant that was to be made on January 1, 2014, provided that Mr. Gross remains an employee on that date. Such stock units will vest and become non-forfeitable upon the earlier of a change in control of the Company or when the Company has a minimum of $3.5 million in working capital and its cash position equals or exceeds $2.5 million after deducting the amount sufficient to cover all federal, state and local taxes required by law to be withheld with respect to the stock units vesting and will be for forfeited if the conditions have not been met by January 1, 2017. The modification of this award did not result in incremental compensation in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718, and no additional expense will be recorded for this grant. Compensation expense for the quarters ended March 31, 2014 and 2013 on the New Gross Employment Agreement was zero and $18,000, respectively.
 
 
F-20

 

On March 1, 2013, the Company and Marc Sylvester entered into an amended employment agreement (the “New Sylvester Employment Agreement”) that replaced and terminated the then existing employment agreement between Mr. Sylvester and the Company, dated July 25, 2011. Under the New Sylvester Employment Agreement, the Company will issue to Mr. Sylvester 250,000 shares of common stock upon the earlier of a change in control of the Company or January 1, 2014 (the “Stock Grant”) provided that Mr. Sylvester remains an employee of the Company on January 1, 2014. In addition, the Company will make the Stock Grant to Mr. Sylvester if his employment is terminated without cause, if he resigns for good reason, or on his death or disability. The Stock Grant is valued at $100,000 in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718. On December 12, 2013, the Company and Mr. Sylvester entered into an amendment to the New Sylvester Employment Agreement (“Sylvester Agreement Amendment”). Pursuant to the Sylvester Agreement Amendment, Mr. Sylvester will receive 250,000 stock unit awards, which replaces the Stock Grant that was to be made on January 1, 2014, provided that Mr. Sylvester remains an employee on that date. Such stock units will vest and become non-forfeitable upon the earlier of a change in control of the Company or when the Company has a minimum of $3.5 million in working capital and its cash position equals or exceeds $2.5 million after deducting the amount sufficient to cover all federal, state and local taxes required by law to be withheld with respect to the stock units vesting and will be for forfeited if the conditions have not been met by January 1, 2017. The modification of this award results in incremental compensation of $30,000 in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718, and this additional compensation will only be recognized if certain performance criteria are met. Compensation expense for the quarters ended March 31, 2014 and 2013 on the New Sylvester Employment Agreement was zero and $10,000, respectively.

During 2013, pursuant to a representation agreement to provide public and investor relations services dated March 7, 2013 and canceled September 7, 2013, the Company issued Lytham Partners 150,000 shares of common stock. The shares were valued at $121,000.

On January 31, 2014, pursuant to a representation agreement to provide public and investor relations services, the Company issued QualityStocks, LLC 25,000 shares of common stock. The shares were valued at $52,500.

On December 12, 2013, pursuant to amendments to their employment agreements on that date, the Company issued a five year, fully vested stock option to purchase 25,000 shares of common stock to each of R. Alan Kelley, Johnny F. Norris, Jr., Marcus A. Sylvester and Richard H. Gross at a purchase price of $0.50, representing the fair market value of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. Based on a Black-Scholes valuation model, these stock options are valued at $37,790 in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718.

On January 1, 2014, the Company granted nonqualified stock options to acquire 250,000 shares each of the Company’s common stock to Jim Trettel and Keith McGee. The options granted are exercisable at $0.595 per share, representing the fair market value of the common stock as of the date of grant. The options are fully vested and exercisable as of the date of grant and will expire five years thereafter. Based on a Black-Sholes valuation model these options are valued at $224,850 in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718.
 
 
F-21

 

On January 30, 2014, the Company granted the following nonqualified stock options to acquire an aggregate of 1,140,000 shares of the Company’s common stock under the Company’s Equity Plan:
 
Alan Kelley
    500,000  
John Norris
    150,000  
Rich Gross
    100,000  
Marc Sylvester
    250,000  
Jay Rifkin
    105,000  
Chris Greenberg
    35,000  
      1,140,000  
 
The options granted are exercisable at $1.20 per share, representing the fair market value of the common stock as of the date of grant as determined under the Equity Plan. The options are fully vested and exercisable as of the date of grant and will expire five years thereafter. Based on a Black-Sholes valuation model these options are valued at $1,963,825 in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718.

Note 14 - Warrants

The Company utilized a Black-Scholes options pricing model to value the warrants sold and issued. This model requires the input of highly subjective assumptions such as the expected stock price volatility and the expected period until the warrants are exercised. When calculating the value of warrants issued, the Company uses a volatility factor of 1.0, a risk free interest rate and the life of the warrant for the exercise period.

As a result of the reverse merger, the Company has warrants outstanding from September 2008, in which China Youth Media, Inc. entered into subscription agreements with Year of the Golden Pig, LLC and with Mojo Music, Inc., in which the Company issued an aggregate of 4 Units, with each Unit consisting of a $100,000 principal amount of a 12% Convertible Promissory Note due three years from its issuance and 3,182 Common Stock Purchase Warrants outside of its 2005 Plan, with each Warrant entitling the holder thereof to purchase at any time beginning from the date of issuance through five years thereafter one share of Common Stock at a price of $9.90 per share. These notes were settled in connection with the Merger.

On May 11, 2009, the Company granted a consultant, as consideration for services on behalf of the Company, a vested warrant with a term of 7 seven years to purchase 11,364 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $3.30 per share. The issuance of this warrant was exempt from registration requirements pursuant to Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

On October 24, 2011, the Company granted Global Maxfin Capital Inc. (“Global”), as consideration for fund raising services on behalf of the Company, a vested warrant with a term of five years to purchase 24,000 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $1.00 per share. The issuance of this warrant was exempt from registration requirements pursuant to Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Based on a Black-Sholes valuation model these warrants had a value of $18,139 which was recorded as syndication costs and deducted from the proceeds of the funds raised by Global.
 
 
F-22

 

On June 24, 2013, the Company entered into an amended and restated letter agreement with ViewTrade Securities Inc. (“ViewTrade”) to act as the Company’s exclusive placement agent in connection with a proposed private placement of equity, debt or equity-linked securities of the Company (“Securities”) as such offering may be amended by the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Private Placement”). The terms of the Securities to be issued pursuant to the Private Placement were agreed to by and between the Company and ViewTrade on June 24, 2013. The gross proceeds of the Private Placement will be up to six million dollars. Pursuant to this agreement, the Company agreed to issue cashless warrants with an exercise period of five years to ViewTrade entitling ViewTrade to acquire an amount equal to 15% of value of the securities sold under the same terms as the Private Placement. From July 30, 2013 through December 24, 2013, the Company issued ViewTrade cashless warrants with a term of five years to purchase 570,750 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $.50 per share and cashless warrants with a term of five years to purchase 570,750 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $.75 per share as compensation for Securities sold. On January 28, 2014, the Company issued 399,525 shares of common stock upon the cashless exercise of 570,500 warrants to purchase shares of common stock for $0.75 per share based on a current market value of $2.50 per share as determined under the terms of the warrant. Using a Black-Sholes valuation model these warrants had a value of $475,307 of which $263,053 was recorded as debt issuance costs and will be amortized over the life of the Securities sold in the Private Placement and $212,254 was recorded as syndication costs reducing the paid in capital recorded for the sale of the Securities sold in the Private Placement.

From July 30, 2013 through December 24, 2013, the Company sold convertible notes and warrants to unaffiliated accredited investors totaling $1,902,500. The notes are convertible into one share of common stock, with the initial conversion ratio equal to $0.50 per share. The investor received a total of 3,805,000 warrants to purchase one share of common stock with an exercise price of $0.75 per share. These securities were sold in reliance upon the exemption provided by Section 4(2) of the Securities Act and the safe harbor of Rule 506 under Regulation D promulgated under the Securities Act. Using a Black-Sholes valuation model these warrants had a value of $841,342 which was recorded as a discount on the notes payable and will be amortized over the life of the associated notes payable.

On September 19, 2013, pursuant to an agreement dated as of March 20, 2013, by and among the Company, John Simonelli and Larry Howell, upon a closing of the Private Placement, the Company issued to each of Mr. Simonelli and Mr. Howell, cashless warrants with a term of five years to purchase 500,000 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $.50 per share. The issuance of this warrant was exempt from registration requirements pursuant to Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Using a Black-Sholes valuation model these warrants had a value of $377,900 of which $217,937 was recorded as debt issuance costs and will be amortized over the life of the Securities sold in the Private Placement and $159,963 was recorded as syndication costs reducing the paid in capital recorded for the sale of the Securities sold in the Private Placement. On January 27, 2014, the Company issued 769,296 shares of common stock upon the cashless exercise of 983,000 of these warrants to purchase shares of common stock for $0.50 per share based on a current market value of $2.30 per share as determined under the terms of the warrant. After the exercise, Mr. Simonelli and Mr. Howell each have 8,500 of these warrants remaining.

On September 30, 2013, the Company granted Bedminster Financial Group, Ltd. (“Bedminster”), as consideration for fund raising services on behalf of the Company, a vested warrant with a term of two years to purchase 13,950 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $1.25 per share. The issuance of this warrant was exempt from registration requirements pursuant to Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Using a Black-Sholes valuation model these warrants had a value of $2,215 which was recorded as debt issuance costs and will be amortized over the life of the notes payables sold by Bedminster.
 
 
F-23

 

The following table summarizes information about common stock warrants outstanding at March 31, 2014:
 
Outstanding
   
Exercisable
 
Exercise Price
   
Number Outstanding
   
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (years)
   
Weighted Average Exercise Price
   
Number Exercisable
   
Weighted Average Exercise Price
 
$ 3.30       11,364       2.12     $ 3.30       11,364     $ 3.30  
  1.25       13,950       1.50       1.25       13,950       1.25  
  1.00       24,000       2.57       1.00       24,000       1.00  
  0.75       4,240,271       4.19       0.75       4,240,271       0.75  
  0.50       587,750       4.53       0.50       587,750       0.50  
$ 0.50 - $3.30       4,877,335       4.21               4,877,335          
 
Note 15 - Tax

For the quarter ended March 31, 2014, the Company had a net operating loss carryforward offset by a valuation allowance and, accordingly, no provision for income taxes has been recorded. In addition, no benefit for income taxes has been recorded due to the uncertainty of the realization of any tax assets. At March 31, 2014, the Company’s net operating loss carryforward was approximately $20,046,000. Our deferred tax asset primarily related to accrued compensation and net operating losses. A 100% valuation allowance has been established due to the uncertainty of the utilization of these assets in future periods. As a result, the deferred tax asset was reduced to zero and no income tax benefit was recorded. The net operating loss carryforward, if not utilized, will begin to expire in 2025.

Section 382 of the Internal Code allows post-change corporations to use pre-change net operating losses, but limit the amount of losses that may be used annually to a percentage of the entity value of the corporation at the date of the ownership change. The applicable percentage is the federal long-term tax-exempt rate for the month during which the change in ownership occurs.

Note 16 - Discontinued Operations

Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, on June 21, 2011, the Company ceased operations of the following entities: Youth Media (BVI) Limited, Youth Media (BVI) Limited, Youth Media (Hong Kong) Limited and Youth Media (Beijing) Limited. These entities were dissolved during the year ended December 31, 2012. Rebel Crew Films, Inc. is now dormant while the Company evaluates its future usefulness to the Company.

As of March 31, 2014, the Company owes Jay Rifkin a current director who is also a former officer of the Company, $250,000 for unpaid consulting fees accrued prior to the Merger.

Note 17 - Subsequent Events

On April 8, 2014 the Company entered into an agreement with Acorn Management Partners, LLC to provide financial advisory, strategic business planning and professional relations services. The agreement is for one year and can be terminated an any time by either party. Compensation under the agreement includes $50,000 of restricted common stock issued quarterly with the number of shares issued determined by dividing $50,000 by the closing price on the first day of each quarter the contract is in force. On April 22, 2014, the Company issued 38,760 shares of common stock based on a current market value of $1.29 per share as determined under the terms of the agreement.
 
 
F-24

 

From April 21, 2014 to May 8, 2014, the Company sold securities to unaffiliated accredited investors totaling $1,050,260. The securities consist of units, where each unit consists of: (i) one share of common stock of the Issuer, par value $0.001 per share, and (ii) a warrant to purchase one shares of common stock of the Issuer at an exercise price of $1.10 per share. The price of each unit was $1.10 and 954,782 units were sold. These securities were sold in reliance upon the exemption provided by Section 4(2) of the Securities Act and the safe harbor of Rule 506 under Regulation D promulgated under the Securities Act.

On April 29, 2014, the Company issued nonqualified stock options to acquire 250,000 shares of the Company’s common stock to Chris Greenberg, a current director of the Company, under the Company's Equity Plan. The options granted are exercisable at $1.50 per share, representing the fair market value of the common stock as of the date of the grant as determined under the Equity Plan. The options are fully vested and exercisable as of the date of grant and will expire five years thereafter. Based on a Black-Sholes valuation model these options are valued at $265,833 in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718.

On May 1, 2014, the Company issued nonqualified stock options to acquire 25,000 shares each of the Company’s common stock to Chris Greenberg, Jay Rifkin and John Norris, current directors of the Company, under the Company's Equity Plan. The options granted are exercisable at $1.49 per share, representing the fair market value of the common stock as of the date of the grant as determined under the Equity Plan. The options are fully vested and exercisable as of the date of grant and will expire five years thereafter. Based on a Black-Sholes valuation model these options are valued at $85,122 in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718.

On May 1, 2014, the Company issued nonqualified stock options to acquire 10,000 shares each of the Company’s common stock to Chris Greenberg and Jay Rifkin and nonqualified stock options to acquire 25,000 shares of the Company’s common stock John Norris, current directors of the Company, under the Company's Equity Plan. The options granted are exercisable at $1.49 per share, representing the fair market value of the common stock as of the date of the grant as determined under the Equity Plan. The options are fully vested and exercisable as of the date of grant and will expire five years thereafter. Based on a Black-Sholes valuation model these options are valued at $51,073 in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718.

On April 21, 2014, the Company entered into an amended and restated letter agreement with ViewTrade Securities Inc. to act as a placement agent for the Company in connection with its private placement offering that was opened on March 19, 2014. Pursuant to this agreement, the Company agreed to issue cashless warrants with an exercise period of five years to ViewTrade entitling ViewTrade to acquire an amount equal to 8% of the shares of common stock sold to investors that are introduced to the Company by ViewTrade. On May 8, 2014, the Company issued ViewTrade cashless warrants with a term of five years to purchase 2,000 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $1.10 per share as compensation for the shares of common stock sold to such investors. The agreement was terminated on May 14, 2014.
 
 
F-25

 
 
ITEM 2 – MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
Background

We are a Development Stage Company that develops and employs patented and proprietary technologies to remove mercury from coal-fired power plant air emissions. The U.S. EPA MATS rule requires that all coal and oil-fired power plants in the U.S., larger than 25MWs, must limit mercury in its emissions to below certain specified levels, according to the type of coal burned and the plant design. In general, MATS requires EGUs to remove about 90% of the mercury from their emissions. Our technology has been shown to be able to achieve mercury removal levels compliant with MATS and at a lower cost and plant impact than the most widely used approach of PAC or BAC injection. As is typical in this market, we are paid by the EGU based on how much of our material is injected to achieve the needed level of mercury removal. Our current client pays and we expect future clients will pay us periodically (monthly or as material is delivered) based on their actual use of our injected material. Clients will use our material whenever their EGUs operate, but they do not operate all the time. EGUs typically are not operated due to maintenance reasons or when the price of power in the market is less than their cost to produce that power. Thus, our revenues from EGU clients will not typically be a consistent stream but will fluctuate, especially seasonally as the market demand for power fluctuates.
 
Results of Operations
 
In the first quarter of 2014, the Company has entered into Mercury and Air Toxic Standards compliance contracts on 11 electric generating units in the Southwestern United States, utilizing its patented Sorbent Enhancement Additive technology. These customer contracts span three electric utility customers, one major utility and two electric cooperatives. The Company estimates annual revenues from these new contracts to be approximately $13 million in fiscal year 2015, and increasing to approximately $30 million in fiscal year 2016. These utility customers have agreed to contracts that carry incremental system installation revenues to the Company over the coming two years of approximately $10 million in the aggregate, with initial system installations beginning in this second quarter of 2014. Per these agreements, the Company has billed customers a total of $1,075,000 for progress billings related to the fabrication, delivery and installation of new equipment. This amount is included in unearned revenue as of March 31, 2014 and will be shown as revenue when the equipment is delivered and commissioned for use by the customer. 2015 is the year that MATS compliance begins, and our goal is to enter into long-term supply agreements, with utilities seeking to cost effectively achieve MATS compliance.  As MATS allows for states to grant one year extensions, we foresee 2015 as a year of building our supply contracting further, with utilities who succeeded in pushing compliance out to 2016, by approval of the State in which they reside. Long term, we believe that as the market matures, our value proposition will prevail as highly competitive and new contracting opportunities will continue to emerge.
 
In December of 2013, MEEC and the Energy & Environmental Research Center Foundation (EERCF) signed Amendment 4 to their exclusive Licensing Agreement which expanded MEEC’s license to include two additional patents and two additional patent applications in mercury control that were not covered by the prior agreement. The License Agreement also eliminated certain contract provisions and compliance issues and restructured the fee payments and buyout provisions while providing EERCF with a small equity ownership in MEEC. With this agreement, MEEC now has exclusive U.S. and international rights to 25 patents or pending patents in its licensing portfolio, spanning numerous technologies in the area of mercury emissions control.
 
 
5

 
 
Beginning January 2014, Mr. Jim Trettel joined the Company as Vice President of Operations. Mr. Trettel’s addition to the team is critical to ensure our ongoing ability to execute the installation and operation of our systems for the ten new customer units the Company has recently won contracts for, as well as on execution of future customer contracts for mercury emissions control that MEEC secures. Prior to joining the Company as the Vice President of Operations, Mr. Trettel acted as an independent contractor supporting numerous MEEC system demonstrations in 2013, and he is well-versed in the Company and its technology.
 
Revenues

Sales - We generated revenues for delivered product of approximately $0 and $55,000 for the quarters ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. During the quarter ended March 31, 2014, we billed customers a total of $1,075,000 for progress billings on new equipment contracts that are associated with new supply contracts. This amount is included in unearned revenue at March 31, 2014 and will be shown as revenue in the second half of 2014 when the equipment is delivered and commissioned for use by the customer. Anticipated revenue from new contracts for equipment signed in the quarter ended March 31, 2014 total approximately $8.4 million and the delivery of this equipment is scheduled to be completed during 2014 and 2015.

Cost and Expenses

Costs and expenses were $3,104,000 and $1,048,000 during the quarters ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The increase in costs and expenses from the prior year is primarily attributable to an increase in stock based compensation issued to employees and directors of approximately $2 million during the current quarter compared to the same period in the prior year.

Cost of goods sold during the quarters ended March 31, 2014 and 2013 was $0 and $28,000, respectively. The decrease in cost is attributable to the decrease in product sales in 2014.

Operating expenses during the quarters ended March 31, 2014 and 2013 were $21,000 and $29,000, respectively. These expenses are related to the Company’s first commercial customer.

License Maintenance Fees were $75,000 and $50,000 for the quarters ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. In December 2013, the Company executed Amendment No. 4 of its "Exclusive Patent and Know-How License Agreement Including Transfer of Ownership" with the Energy and Environmental Research Center Foundation, a non-profit entity (“EERCF”) which increased the annual maintenance fee paid to the EERCF from $200,000 to $300,000 starting in 2014.

Marketing and development expenses were $63,000 and $90,000 for the quarters ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The decrease in marketing and development expenses is primarily attributed to a decrease in fees paid to consultants for technical services related to our sales efforts in 2013.

Selling, general and administrative expenses were $485,000 and $397,000 for the quarters ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The increase in selling, general and administrative expenses is primarily attributed to communications costs associated with stock issued to an investor relations company.

Depreciation and amortization expenses were $44,000 and $45,000 for the quarters ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The decrease from the prior year is attributable to certain assets that were fully depreciated as of the year ended 2013.

Professional fee expenses were $233,000 and $219,000 for the years March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The increase in professional fee expenses is attributed to an increase in professional fees related to the maintenance, expansion and defense of our intellectual property.
 
 
6

 

Stock based compensation was $2,189,000 and $189,000 for the quarters ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. In the quarter ended March 31, 2014, these costs were associated with stock options issued to officers, directors and consultants. In the quarter ended March 31, 2013, these costs were associated with the amortization of stock awards included in the employment agreements of officers.

Other Income and Expenses

Interest expense related to the financing of capital was $298,000 and $123,000 during the quarters ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
 
Net Loss

For the quarters ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, we had a net loss from operations of approximately $3,402,000 and $1,116,000, respectively. The increased net loss is primarily attributed increased stock based compensation expense and interest expense in the current quarter from the prior year.

Taxes

As of March 31, 2014, our deferred tax assets are primarily related to accrued compensation and net operating losses. A 100% valuation allowance has been established due to the uncertainty of the utilization of these assets in future periods. As a result, the deferred tax asset was reduced to zero and no income tax benefit was recorded. The Company's net operating loss carryforward will begin to expire in 2025.

Section 382 of the Internal Code allows post-change corporations to use pre-change net operating losses, but limit the amount of losses that may be used annually to a percentage of the entity value of the corporation at the date of the ownership change. The applicable percentage is the federal long-term tax-exempt rate for the month during which the change in ownership occurs.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Our principal source of liquidity is cash generated from financing activities. As of March 31, 2014, our cash and cash equivalents were $272,000. We had a working capital deficit of approximately $2.8 million at March 31, 2014 and we continue to have recurring losses. We anticipate cash needs for working capital and capital expenditures for the next twelve months of approximately $3.0 million. In the past, we have primarily relied upon financing activities and loans from related parties to fund our operations. No assurances can be given that the Company can obtain sufficient working capital through financing activities, borrowings or that the continued implementation of its business plan will generate sufficient revenues in the future to sustain ongoing operations. Success in our fund raising efforts is crucial. We are actively seeking sources of additional financing in order to maintain and expand our operations and to fund our debt repayment obligations. Due to these efforts, we could dilute current shareholders and the dilution could be significant. Even if we are able to obtain funding, there can be no assurance that a sufficient level of sales will be attained to fund such operations or that unbudgeted costs will not be incurred. Our current cash flow needs for general overhead, sales and operations is approximately $250,000 per month with additional funds often needed for demonstrations of our technology on potential customer units. With our expected gross margins on customer contracts, we anticipate that we will be at break-even on a cash flow basis when our revenues reach approximately $12 million annually. This break-even target is subject to achieving sales at that level with our expected gross margins, and no assurance can be made that we will be able to achieve this target.

Total assets were $3,963,000 at March 31, 2014 versus $1,924,000 at December 31, 2013. The change in total assets is primarily attributable to the increases in inventory and customer acquisition costs associated with the signing of three new customers during the quarter ended March 31, 2014 and the associated costs of beginning to fabricate the equipment our customers will need to install at their individual sites.
 
 
7

 

Operating activities used $246,000 of cash during the quarter ended March 31, 2014 compared to $225,000 during the quarter ended March 31, 2013. The change in cash used for operating activities is primarily attributable to the increase in inventory associated with the fabrication of equipment for our new customer installations.

Investing activities used zero during both the quarters ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. 
 
Financing activities provided $8,000 during the quarter ended March 31, 2014 due to proceeds from the exercise of a warrant to purchase shares of common stock. Financing activities provided $105,000 during the quarter ended March 31, 2013 due to proceeds from the issuance of convertible promissory notes.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We do not have any off balance sheet arrangements that are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on our financial condition, revenues, results of operations, liquidity or capital expenditures.
 
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

Our discussion and analysis of our financial conditions and results of operation are based upon the accompanying consolidated financial statements which have been prepared in accordance with the generally accepted accounting principles in the U.S. The preparation of the consolidated financial statements requires that we make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses. Management evaluates on an on-going basis our estimates with respect to the valuation allowances for accounts receivable, income taxes, accrued expenses and equity instrument valuation, for example. We base these estimates on various assumptions and experience that we believe to be reasonable. The following critical accounting policies are those that are important to the presentation of our financial condition and results of operations. These policies require management’s most difficult, complex, or subjective judgments, often as a result of the need to make estimates of matters that are inherently uncertain.

The following critical accounting policies affect our more significant estimates used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements. In particular, our most critical accounting policies relate to the recognition of revenue, and the valuation of our stock-based compensation.

Accounts Receivable

Trade accounts receivable are stated at the amount the Company expects to collect. The Company maintains allowances for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of its customers to make required payments. Management considers the following factors when determining the collectability of specific customer accounts: customer credit-worthiness, past transaction history with the customer, current economic industry trends, and changes in customer payment terms. Past due balances over 90 days and other higher risk amounts are reviewed individually for collectability. If the financial condition of the Company’s customers were to deteriorate, adversely affecting their ability to make payments, additional allowances would be required. Based on management’s assessment, the Company provides for estimated uncollectible amounts through a charge to earnings and a credit to a valuation allowance. Balances that remain outstanding after the Company has used reasonable collection efforts are written off through a charge to the valuation allowance and a credit to accounts receivable.
 
 
8

 
 
Revenue Recognition
 
The Company records revenue from sales in accordance with ASC 605, Revenue Recognition (“ASC 605”). The criteria for recognition are as follows:
 
1. Persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists;
 
2. Delivery has occurred or services have been rendered;
 
3. The seller’s price to the buyer is fixed or determinable; and
 
4. Collectability is reasonably assured.

Determination of criteria (3) and (4) will be based on management’s judgments regarding the fixed nature of the selling prices of the products delivered and the collectability of those amounts. Provisions for discounts and rebates to customers, estimated returns and allowances, and other adjustments will be provided for in the same period the related sales are recorded.

The Company recorded customer acquisition costs totaling $1,120,500 during the quarter ended March 31, 2014. Supply and equipment agreements were signed with three new customers during this period. Pursuant to one agreement, $150,000 waived payment due for a demonstration performed in 2013. Customer credits towards future deliveries of product totaling $970,200 were accrued per the terms of the other two customer agreement. Customer acquisition costs will be amortized over the life of the new customer agreements.
 
Per these agreements, the Company billed two customers a total of $1,075,000 for progress billings related to the fabrication, delivery and installation of new equipment. This amount is included in unearned revenue at March 31, 2014 and will become revenue during 2014 and 2015 when the equipment is delivered and commissioned for use by the customer.

Income Taxes

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the consolidated financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets, including tax loss and credit carryforwards, and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Deferred income tax expense represents the change during the period in the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities. The components of the deferred tax assets and liabilities are individually classified as current and non-current based on their characteristics. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when, in the opinion of management, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.

The recognition, measurement and disclosure of uncertain tax positions recognized in an enterprise’s consolidated financial statements are based on a more-likely-than-not recognition threshold. The Company did not have any unrecognized tax benefits at March 31, 2014 or December 31, 2013. When necessary, the Company would accrue penalties and interest related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense.

The Company and its subsidiaries file a consolidated income tax return in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and three state jurisdictions. The Company is no longer subject to U.S. federal examinations for years prior to 2010 or state tax examinations for years prior to 2009. Prior to the Reverse Merger, MES, Inc. was taxed as an S corporation and income and losses were passed through to the stockholders.
 
 
9

 
 
Stock-Based Compensation

We have adopted the provisions of Share-Based Payments, which requires that share-based payments be reflected as an expense based upon the grant-date fair value of those grants. Accordingly, the fair value of each option grant, non-vested stock award and shares issued under our employee stock purchase plan, were estimated on the date of grant. We estimate the fair value of these grants using the Black-Scholes model which requires us to make certain estimates in the assumptions used in this model, including the expected term the award will be held, the volatility of the underlying common stock, the discount rate, dividends and the forfeiture rate. The expected term represents the period of time that grants and awards are expected to be outstanding. Expected volatilities were based on historical volatility of our stock. The risk-free interest rate approximates the U.S. treasury rate corresponding to the expected term of the option. Dividends were assumed to be zero. Forfeiture estimates are based on historical data. These inputs are based on our assumptions, which we believe to be reasonable but that include complex and subjective variables. Other reasonable assumptions could result in different fair values for our stock-based awards. Stock-based compensation expense, as determined using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model, is recognized on a straight-line basis over the service period, net of estimated forfeitures. To the extent that actual results or revised estimates differ from the estimates used, those amounts will be recorded as an adjustment in the period that estimates are revised.

Warrants

The Company utilized a Black-Scholes options pricing model to value the warrants sold and issued. This model requires the input of highly subjective assumptions such as the expected stock price volatility and the expected period until the warrants are exercised. When calculating the value of warrants issued, the Company uses a volatility factor of 1.0, a risk free interest rate and the life of the warrant for the exercise period.

ITEM 3 – QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

We are a smaller reporting company as defined by Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and are not required to provide the information under this item.
 
 
10

 
 
ITEM 4 – CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including the principal executive officer (“PEO”) and principal financial officer (“PFO”), we have evaluated the effectiveness, the design and operations of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and Rule 15d-15(e) of the Exchange Act) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, the PEO and the PFO determined that as of June 30, 2013, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

There have been no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended March 31, 2014 that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
 
 
11

 
 
PART II – OTHER INFORMATION
 
ITEM 1 – LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
 
On March 20, 2014, Michael Yurisic filed a breach of contract complaint against the Company in the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania. The complaint seeks a remedy of the delivery of 342,340 shares of the Company’s common stock. The Company intends to defend the allegations in Mr. Yurisic’s complaint. In addition, the Company believes that any obligation to Mr. Yurisic is properly the responsibility of Rick MacPherson, the founder of the Company and currently a director.

ITEM 1a – RISK FACTORS

We are a smaller reporting company as defined by Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and are not required to provide the information under this item.

ITEM 2 – UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

Not applicable.

ITEM 3 – DEFAULT UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

Not applicable.

ITEM 4 – MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not applicable.

ITEM 5 – OTHER INFORMATION

Not applicable.
 
 
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ITEM – 6 EXHIBITS
 
Exhibit Number
 
Description
     
10.1
 
Midwest Energy Emissions Corp. 2014 Equity Incentive Plan. (1)
10.2
 
Form of Option Award Agreement (2)
31.1*
 
Certification by Chief Financial Officer, required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a) of the Exchange Act
31.2*
 
Certification by Chief Financial Officer, required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a) of the Exchange Act
32.1*
 
Certification by Chief Executive Officer, required by Rule 13a-14(b) or Rule 15d-14(b) of the Exchange Act and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code
32.2*
 
Certification by Chief Financial Officer, required by Rule 13a-14(b) or Rule 15d-14(b) of the Exchange Act and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code
101*
 
The following financial information from our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the six months ended June 30, 2013 formatted in Extensible Business Reporting Language (XBRL): (i) the Consolidated Balance Sheets, (ii) the Consolidated Statements of Operations, (iii) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, and (v) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (3)
___________
*   Filed herewith.
 
(1)
Incorporated by reference to Form 8-K filed January 16, 2014.
   
(2)
Incorporated by reference to Form 8-K filed February 5, 2014.
   
(3)
In accordance with Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, the XBRL information in Exhibit 101 to this quarterly report on Form 10-Q shall not be deemed to be “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (“Exchange Act”), or otherwise subject to the liability of that section, and shall not be incorporated by reference into any registration statement or other document filed under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Exchange Act, except as shall be expressly set forth by specific reference in such filing.
 
 
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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 
 
  MIDWEST ENERGY EMISSIONS CORP.  
       
Dated: May 14, 2014
By:
/s/ R. Alan Kelley  
    R. Alan Kelley  
    Chief Executive Officer  
    (Principal Executive Officer)  
       
       
Dated: May 14, 2014
By:
/s/ Richard H. Gross  
    Richard H. Gross  
    Chief Financial Officer  
    (Principal Financial Officer)  
 
 
 
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