Higher production and prices boosted this oil stock’s 2010 earnings

Cenovus Energy Inc., symbol CVE on Toronto, operates three oil-sands properties in Alberta, and one in Saskatchewan. Cenovus ships the heavy bitumen from these projects to refineries in Illinois and Texas. ConocoPhillips (New York symbol COP) owns 50% of these refineries, as well as 50% of Cenovus’ two main oil-sands projects. Cenovus also owns conventional oil and natural gas properties. Cenovus split off from EnCana Corp. in December 2009.

In 2010, Cenovus earned $993.0 million, or $1.32 a share. That’s up 21.4% from $818.0 million, or $1.09 a share, in 2009.

The oil stock’s production rose, as did oil prices. These were the main reasons for the higher earnings. These gains were somewhat offset by higher costs for shipping oil due to problems along the Enbridge pipeline system, and costs to upgrade its U.S. refineries. The oil stock’s cash flow fell 15.1% in 2010, to $2.4 billion, or $3.21 a share, from $2.8 billion, or $3.79 a share in 2009. Lower volumes and selling prices for natural gas were the main reasons for the declines.

In 2010, the oil stock’s proven reserves of bitumen rose 33.0% to 1.2 billion barrels. The Foster Creek and Christina Lake oil sands operations account for about 47% of Cenovus’ revenue. Combined daily production at Foster and Christina rose 32.9%, to 59,045 barrels from 44,423 barrels a year earlier. These operations are a 50/50 venture with the U.S. energy giant ConocoPhilips.

You can get our latest analysis, including our clear buy/sell/hold advice, on Cenovus and dozens of other companies stocks you may be considering buying in The Successful Investor. What’s more, you can get one month free when you subscribe today. Click here to learn how.