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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies | 12 Months Ended
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Dec. 31, 2018
Accounting Policies [Abstract] |
Summary Significant Accounting Policies | Summary of Significant Accounting Policies We were incorporated in the state of Washington in 1977, and are a technology company, offering end-to-end solutions to enhance productivity and efficiency, primarily focused on utilities and municipalities around the globe. Our solutions generally include robust industrial grade networks, smart meters, meter data management software, and knowledge application solutions, which bring additional value to the customer. Our professional services help our customers project-manage, install, implement, operate, and maintain their systems. We operate under the Itron brand worldwide and manage and report under three operating segments: Device Solutions, Networked Solutions, and Outcomes. Financial Statement Preparation The consolidated financial statements presented in this Annual Report include the Consolidated Statements of Operations, Comprehensive Income (Loss), Equity, and Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017, and 2016 and the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 of Itron, Inc. and its subsidiaries, prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). On January 1, 2018, we adopted ASC 606 using the modified retrospective method applied to those contracts that were not completed. Results for reporting periods beginning after January 1, 2018 are presented under ASC 606, while prior period amounts are not adjusted and continue to be reported in accordance with our historic accounting under ASC 605, Revenue Recognition (ASC 605). The cumulative impact of adoption was a net decrease to accumulated deficit of $10.9 million as of January 1, 2018, with the impact primarily related to multiple element arrangements that contain software and software related elements. As we had not established vendor specific objective evidence of fair value for certain of our software and software related elements, we historically combined them as one unit of account and recognized the combined unit of account using the combined services approach. Under ASC 606, these software and software related elements are generally determined to be distinct performance obligations. As such, we are able to recognize revenue as we satisfy the performance obligations, either at a point in time or over time. For contracts that were modified prior to January 1, 2018, we have reflected the aggregate effect of all modifications prior to the date of initial adoption in order to identify the satisfied and unsatisfied performance obligations, determine the transaction price, and allocate the transaction price to satisfied and unsatisfied performance obligations. Refer to the updated Revenue Recognition accounting policy described below and "Note 18: Revenues" for additional disclosures regarding our revenues from contracts with customers and the adoption of ASC 606. Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Examples of significant estimates include revenue recognition, warranty, restructuring, income taxes, business combinations, goodwill and intangible assets, defined benefit pension plans, contingencies, and stock-based compensation. Due to various factors affecting future costs and operations, actual results could differ materially from these estimates. Basis of Consolidation We consolidate all entities in which we have a greater than 50% ownership interest or in which we exercise control over the operations. We use the equity method of accounting for entities in which we have a 50% or less investment and exercise significant influence. Entities in which we have less than a 20% investment and where we do not exercise significant influence are accounted for under the cost method. Intercompany transactions and balances are eliminated upon consolidation. Noncontrolling Interests In several of our consolidated international subsidiaries, we have joint venture partners, who are minority shareholders. Although these entities are not wholly-owned by Itron, we consolidate them because we have a greater than 50% ownership interest or because we exercise control over the operations. The noncontrolling interest balance is adjusted each period to reflect the allocation of net income (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to the noncontrolling interests, as shown in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) as well as contributions from and distributions to the owners. The noncontrolling interest balance in our Consolidated Balance Sheets represents the proportional share of the equity of the joint venture entities which is attributable to the minority shareholders. Cash and Cash Equivalents We consider all highly liquid instruments with remaining maturities of three months or less at the date of acquisition to be cash equivalents. Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents that are contractually restricted from operating use are classified as restricted cash and cash equivalents. On December 22, 2017, we issued $300 million aggregate principal amount of 5.00% senior unsecured notes due in 2026 (Notes). The proceeds of the Notes plus prepaid interest and a premium for a special mandatory redemption option were deposited into escrow, where the funds remained until all the escrow release conditions were satisfied, specifically the closing of the acquisition of Silver Spring Networks, Inc. (SSNI) on January 5, 2018. We have recognized the balance in escrow as restricted cash in our consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2017. See "Note 6: Debt" for further details. The following table provides a reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash reported within the Consolidated Balance Sheets that sum to the total of the same such amounts shown in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows:
| Year Ended December 31,
| 2018 |  | 2017 |  | 2016
| (in thousands)
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 120,221 |  |  | $ | 176,274 |  |  | $ | 133,565 |
Current restricted cash included in other current assets | 51 |  |  | 51 |  |  | — |
Long-term restricted cash | 2,056 |  |  | 311,010 |  |  | — |
Total cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash: | $ | 122,328 |  |  | $ | 487,335 |  |  | $ | 133,565 |
Accounts Receivable, net Accounts receivable are recognized for invoices issued to customers in accordance with our contractual arrangements. Interest and late payment fees are minimal. Unbilled receivables are recognized when revenues are recognized upon product shipment or service delivery and invoicing occurs at a later date. We recognize an allowance for doubtful accounts representing our estimate of the probable losses in accounts receivable at the date of the balance sheet based on our historical experience of bad debts and our specific review of outstanding receivables. Accounts receivable are written-off against the allowance when we believe an account, or a portion thereof, is no longer collectible. Inventories Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value using the first-in, first-out method. Cost includes raw materials and labor, plus applied direct and indirect costs. Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the normal course of business, minus the cost of completion, disposal and transportation. Derivative Instruments All derivative instruments, whether designated in hedging relationships or not, are recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value as either assets or liabilities. The components and fair values of our derivative instruments are determined using the fair value measurements of significant other observable inputs (Level 2), as defined by GAAP. The fair value of our derivative instruments may switch between an asset and a liability depending on market circumstances at the end of the period. We include the effect of our counterparty credit risk based on current published credit default swap rates when the net fair value of our derivative instruments are in a net asset position and the effect of our own nonperformance risk when the net fair value of our derivative instruments are in a net liability position. For any derivative designated as a fair value hedge, the changes in the fair value of the derivative and of the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk are recognized in earnings. For any derivative designated as a cash flow hedge, the effective portions of changes in the fair value of the derivative are recognized as a component of other comprehensive income (loss) (OCI) and are recognized in earnings when the hedged item affects earnings. For a hedge of a net investment, the effective portion of any unrealized gain or loss from the foreign currency revaluation of the hedging instrument is reported in OCI as a net unrealized gain or loss on derivative instruments. Upon termination of a net investment hedge, the net derivative gain/loss will remain in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (AOCI) until such time when earnings are impacted by a sale or liquidation of the associated operations. We classify cash flows from our derivative programs as cash flows from operating activities in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. Derivatives are not used for trading or speculative purposes. Our derivatives are with credit worthy multinational commercial banks, with whom we have master netting agreements; however, our derivative positions are not recognized on a net basis in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. There are no credit-risk-related contingent features within our derivative instruments. Refer to "Note 7: Derivative Financial Instruments" and "Note 14: Shareholders' Equity" for further disclosures of our derivative instruments and their impact on OCI. Property, Plant, and Equipment Property, plant, and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, generally 30 years for buildings and improvements and three years to ten years for machinery and equipment, computers and software, and furniture. Leasehold improvements are capitalized and depreciated over the term of the applicable lease, including renewable periods if reasonably assured, or over the useful lives, whichever is shorter. Construction in process represents capital expenditures incurred for assets not yet placed in service. Costs related to internally developed software and software purchased for internal uses are capitalized and are amortized over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Repair and maintenance costs are recognized as incurred. We have no major planned maintenance activities. We review long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate the carrying amount of an asset group may not be recoverable. Assets held for sale are classified within other current assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets, are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell, and are no longer depreciated. Gains and losses from asset disposals and impairment losses are classified within the Consolidated Statements of Operations according to the use of the asset, except those gains and losses recognized in conjunction with our restructuring activities, which are classified within restructuring expense. Prepaid Debt Fees Prepaid debt fees for term debt represent the capitalized direct costs incurred related to the issuance of debt and are recognized as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of the corresponding debt liability. We have elected to present prepaid debt fees for revolving debt within other long-term assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. These costs are amortized to interest expense over the terms of the respective borrowings, including contingent maturity or call features, using the effective interest method, or straight-line method when associated with a revolving credit facility. When debt is repaid early, the related portion of unamortized prepaid debt fees is written off and included in interest expense. Business Combinations On the date of acquisition, the assets acquired, liabilities assumed, and any noncontrolling interests in the acquiree are recognized at their fair values. The acquiree's results of operations are also included as of the date of acquisition in our consolidated results. Intangible assets that arise from contractual/legal rights, or are capable of being separated, as well as in-process research and development (IPR&D), are measured and recognized at fair value, and amortized over the estimated useful life. IPR&D is not amortized until such time as the associated development projects are completed or terminated. If a development project is completed, the IPR&D is reclassified as a core technology intangible asset and amortized over its estimated useful life. If the development project is terminated, the recognized value of the associated IPR&D is immediately recognized. If practicable, assets acquired and liabilities assumed arising from contingencies are measured and recognized at fair value. If not practicable, such assets and liabilities are measured and recognized when it is probable that a gain or loss has occurred, and the amount can be reasonably estimated. The residual balance of the purchase price, after fair value allocations to all identified assets and liabilities, represents goodwill. Acquisition-related costs are recognized as incurred. Integration costs associated with an acquisition are generally recognized in periods subsequent to the acquisition date, and changes in deferred tax asset valuation allowances and acquired income tax uncertainties, including penalties and interest, after the measurement period are recognized as a component of the provision for income taxes. Our acquisitions may include contingent consideration, which require us to recognize the fair value of the estimated liability at the time of the acquisition. Subsequent changes in the estimate of the amount to be paid under the contingent consideration arrangement are recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. We estimate the preliminary fair value of acquired assets and liabilities as of the date of acquisition based on information available at that time utilizing either a cost or income approach. The determination of the fair value is judgmental in nature and involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions. Contingent consideration is recognized at fair value as of the date of the acquisition with adjustments occurring after the purchase price allocation period, which could be up to one year, recognized in earnings. Changes to valuation allowances on acquired deferred tax assets that occur after the acquisition date are recognized in the provision for, or benefit from, income taxes. The valuation of these tangible and identifiable intangible assets and liabilities is subject to further management review and may change materially between the preliminary allocation and end of the purchase price allocation period. Any changes in these estimates may have a material effect on our consolidated operating results or financial position. Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill and intangible assets may result from our business acquisitions. Intangible assets may also result from the purchase of assets and intellectual property in a transaction that does not qualify as a business combination. We use estimates, including estimates of useful lives of intangible assets, the amount and timing of related future cash flows, and fair values of the related operations, in determining the value assigned to goodwill and intangible assets. Our finite-lived intangible assets are amortized over their estimated useful lives based on estimated discounted cash flows, generally three years to ten years for core-developed technology and customer contracts and relationships. Finite-lived intangible assets are tested for impairment at the asset group level when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable. Indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested for impairment annually, when events or changes in circumstances indicate the asset may be impaired, or at the time when their useful lives are determined to be no longer indefinite. Goodwill is assigned to our reporting units based on the expected benefit from the synergies arising from each business combination, determined by using certain financial metrics, including the forecasted discounted cash flows associated with each reporting unit. Each reporting unit corresponds with its respective operating segment. We test goodwill for impairment each year as of October 1, or more frequently should a significant impairment indicator occur. As part of the impairment test, we may elect to perform an assessment of qualitative factors. If this qualitative assessment indicates that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit, including goodwill, is less than its carrying amount, or if we elect to bypass the qualitative assessment, we would then proceed with the quantitative impairment test. The impairment test involves comparing the fair values of the reporting units to their carrying amounts. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit's goodwill exceeds the fair value of the reporting unit, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to the excess. Determining the fair value of a reporting unit is judgmental in nature and involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions. We forecast discounted future cash flows at the reporting unit level using risk-adjusted discount rates and estimated future revenues and operating costs, which take into consideration factors such as existing backlog, expected future orders, supplier contracts, and expectations of competitive and economic environments. We also identify similar publicly traded companies and develop a correlation, referred to as a multiple, to apply to the operating results of the reporting units. These combined fair values are then reconciled to the aggregate market value of our common stock on the date of valuation, while considering a reasonable control premium. Contingencies A loss contingency is recognized if it is probable that an asset has been impaired, or a liability has been incurred, and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. We evaluate, among other factors, the degree of probability of an unfavorable outcome and our ability to make a reasonable estimate of the amount of the ultimate loss. Loss contingencies that we determine to be reasonably possible, but not probable, are disclosed but not recognized. Changes in these factors and related estimates could materially affect our financial position and results of operations. Legal costs to defend against contingent liabilities are recognized as incurred. Bonus and Profit Sharing We have various employee bonus and profit sharing plans, which provide award amounts for the achievement of financial and nonfinancial targets. If management determines it is probable that the targets will be achieved, and the amounts can be reasonably estimated, a compensation accrual is recognized based on the proportional achievement of the financial and nonfinancial targets. Although we monitor and accrue expenses quarterly based on our progress toward the achievement of the targets, the actual results may result in awards that are significantly greater or less than the estimates made in earlier quarters. Warranty We offer standard warranties on our hardware products and large application software products. We accrue the estimated cost of new product warranties based on historical and projected product performance trends and costs during the warranty period. Testing of new products in the development stage helps identify and correct potential warranty issues prior to manufacturing. Quality control efforts during manufacturing reduce our exposure to warranty claims. When testing or quality control efforts fail to detect a fault in one of our products, we may experience an increase in warranty claims. We track warranty claims to identify potential warranty trends. If an unusual trend is noted, an additional warranty accrual would be recognized if a failure event is probable and the cost can be reasonably estimated. When new products are introduced, our process relies on historical averages of similar products until sufficient data is available. As actual experience on new products becomes available, it is used to modify the historical averages to ensure the expected warranty costs are within a range of likely outcomes. Management regularly evaluates the sufficiency of the warranty provisions and makes adjustments when necessary. The warranty allowances may fluctuate due to changes in estimates for material, labor, and other costs we may incur to repair or replace projected product failures, and we may incur additional warranty and related expenses in the future with respect to new or established products, which could adversely affect our financial position and results of operations. The long-term warranty balance includes estimated warranty claims beyond one year. Warranty expense is classified within cost of revenues. Restructuring We recognize a liability for costs associated with an exit or disposal activity under a restructuring project in the period in which the liability is incurred. Employee termination benefits considered postemployment benefits are accrued when the obligation is probable and estimable, such as benefits stipulated by human resource policies and practices or statutory requirements. One-time termination benefits are recognized at the date the employee is notified. If the employee must provide future service greater than 60 days, such benefits are recognized ratably over the future service period. For contract termination costs, we recognize a liability upon the termination of a contract in accordance with the contract terms or the cessation of the use of the rights conveyed by the contract, whichever occurs later. Asset impairments associated with a restructuring project are determined at the asset group level. An impairment may be recognized for assets that are to be abandoned, are to be sold for less than net book value, or are held for sale in which the estimated proceeds less costs to sell are less than the net book value. We may also recognize impairment on an asset group, which is held and used, when the carrying value is not recoverable and exceeds the asset group's fair value. If an asset group is considered a business, a portion of our goodwill balance is allocated to it based on relative fair value. If the sale of an asset group under a restructuring project results in proceeds that exceed the net book value of the asset group, the resulting gain is recognized within restructuring expense in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Defined Benefit Pension Plans We sponsor both funded and unfunded defined benefit pension plans for certain international employees. We recognize a liability for the projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets or an asset for plan assets in excess of the projected benefit obligation. We also recognize the funded status of our defined benefit pension plans on our Consolidated Balance Sheets and recognize as a component of OCI, net of tax, the actuarial gains or losses and prior service costs or credits, if any, that arise during the period but that are not recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost. If actuarial gains and losses exceed ten percent of the greater of plan assets or plan liabilities, we amortize them over the employees' average future service period. Share Repurchase Plan From time to time, we may repurchase shares of Itron common stock under programs authorized by our Board of Directors. Share repurchases are made in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions and in accordance with applicable securities laws. Under applicable Washington State law, shares repurchased are retired and not displayed separately as treasury stock on the financial statements; the value of the repurchased shares is deducted from common stock. Product Revenues and Service Revenues Product revenues include sales from standard and smart meters, systems or software, and any associated implementation and installation revenue. Service revenues include sales from post-sale maintenance support, consulting, outsourcing, and managed services. Revenue Recognition - ASC 606 (for 2018 results in Consolidated Statements of Operations) The majority of our revenues consist primarily of hardware sales, but may also include the license of software, software implementation services, cloud services and software-as-a-service (SaaS), project management services, installation services, consulting services, post-sale maintenance support, and extended or noncustomary warranties. We account for a contract when it has approval and commitment from both parties, the rights of the parties are identified, payment terms are identified, the contract has commercial substance, and collectability of consideration is probable. In determining whether the definition of a contract has been met, we will consider whether the arrangement creates enforceable rights and obligations, which involves evaluation of agreement terms that would allow for the customer to terminate the agreement. If the customer has the unilateral right to terminate the agreement without providing further consideration to us, the agreement would not be considered to meet the definition of a contract. Many of our revenue arrangements involve multiple performance obligations consisting of hardware, meter reading system software, installation, and/or project management services. Separate contracts entered into with the same customer (or related parties of the customer) at or near the same time are accounted for as a single contract where one or more of the following criteria are met:
• | The contracts are negotiated as a package with a single commercial objective;
• | The amount of consideration to be paid in one contract depends on the price or performance of the other contract; or
• | The goods or services promised in the contracts (or some goods or services promised in each of the contracts) are a single performance obligation.
Once the contract has been defined, we evaluate whether the promises in the contract should be accounted for as more than one performance obligation. This evaluation requires significant judgment, and the decision to separate the combined or single contract into multiple performance obligations could change the amount of revenue and profit recognized in a given period. For some of our contracts, the customer contracts with us to provide a significant service of integrating, customizing or modifying goods or services in the contract in which case the goods or services would be combined into a single performance obligation. It is common that we may promise to provide multiple distinct goods or services within a contract in which case we separate the contract into more than one performance obligation. If a contract is separated into more than one performance obligation, we allocate the total transaction price to each performance obligation in an amount based on the estimated relative standalone selling prices of the promised goods or services underlying each performance obligation. If applicable, for goods or services where we have observable standalone sales, the observable standalone sales are used to determine the standalone selling price. For the majority of our goods and services, we do not have observable standalone sales. As a result, we estimate the standalone selling price using either the adjusted market assessment approach or the expected cost plus a margin approach. Approaches used to estimate the standalone selling price for a given good or service will maximize the use of observable inputs and considers several factors, including our pricing practices, costs to provide a good or service, the type of good or service, and availability of other transactional data, among others. We determine the estimated standalone selling prices of goods or services used in our allocation of arrangement consideration on an annual basis or more frequently if there is a significant change in our business or if we experience significant variances in our transaction prices. Many of our contracts with customers include variable consideration, which can include liquidated damage provisions, rebates and volume and early payment discounts. Some of our contracts with customers contain clauses for liquidated damages related to the timing of delivery or milestone accomplishments, which could become material in an event of failure to meet the contractual deadlines. At the inception of the arrangement and on an ongoing basis, we evaluate the probability and magnitude of having to pay liquidated damages. We estimate variable consideration using the expected value method, taking into consideration contract terms, historical customer behavior and historical sales. In the case of liquidated damages, we also take into consideration progress towards meeting contractual milestones, including whether milestones have not been achieved, specified rates, if applicable, stated in the contract, and history of paying liquidated damages to the customer or similar customers. Variable consideration is included in the transaction price if, in our judgment, it is probable that a significant future reversal of cumulative revenue under the contract will not occur. In the normal course of business, we do not accept product returns unless the item is defective as manufactured. We establish provisions for estimated returns and warranties. In addition, we do not typically provide customers with the right to a refund. Hardware revenue is recognized at a point in time. Transfer of control is typically at the time of shipment, receipt by the customer, or, if applicable, upon receipt of customer acceptance provisions. We will recognize revenue prior to receipt of customer acceptance for hardware in cases where the customer acceptance provision is determined to be a formality. Transfer of control would not occur until receipt of customer acceptance in hardware arrangements where such provisions are subjective or where we do not have history of meeting the acceptance criteria. Perpetual software licenses are considered to be a right to use intellectual property and are recognized at a point in time. Transfer of control is considered to be at the point at which it is available to the customer to download and use or upon receipt of customer acceptance. In certain contracts, software licenses may be sold with professional services that include implementation services that include a significant service of integrating, customizing or modifying the software. In these instances, the software license is combined into single performance obligation with the implementation services and recognized over time as the implementation services are performed. Hardware and software licenses (when not combined with professional services) are typically billed when shipped and revenue recognized at a point-in-time. As a result, the timing of revenue recognition and invoicing does not have a significant impact on contract assets and liabilities. Professional services, which include implementation, project management, installation, and consulting services are recognized over time. We measure progress towards satisfying these performance obligations using input methods, most commonly based on the costs incurred in relation to the total expected costs to provide the service. We expect this method to best depict our performance in transferring control of services promised to the customer or represents a reasonable proxy for measuring progress. The estimate of expected costs to provide services requires judgment. Cost estimates take into consideration past history and the specific scope requested by the customer and are updated quarterly. We may also offer professional services on a stand-ready basis over a specified period of time, in which case revenue would be recognized ratably over the term. Invoicing of these services is commensurate with performance and occurs on a monthly basis. As such, these services do not have a significant impact on contract assets and contract liabilities. Cloud services and SaaS arrangements where customers have access to certain of our software within a cloud-based IT environment that we manage, host and support are offered to customers on a subscription basis. Revenue for the cloud services and SaaS offerings are generally recognized over time, ratably over the contact term commencing with the date the services are made available to the customer. Services, including professional services, cloud services and SaaS arrangements, are commonly billed on a monthly basis in arrears and typically result in an unbilled receivable, which is not considered a contract asset as our right to consideration is unconditional. Certain of our revenue arrangements include an extended or noncustomary warranty provisions that covers all or a portion of a customer's replacement or repair costs beyond the standard or customary warranty period. Whether or not the extended warranty is separately priced in the arrangement, such warranties are considered to be a separate good or service, and a portion of the transaction price is allocated to this extended warranty performance obligation. This revenue is recognized, ratably over the extended warranty coverage period. Hardware and software post-sale maintenance support fees are recognized over time, ratably over the life of the related service contract. Support fees are typically billed on an annual basis, resulting in a contract liability. Shipping and handling costs and incidental expenses billed to customers are recognized as revenue, with the associated cost charged to cost of revenues. We recognize sales, use, and value added taxes billed to our customers on a net basis. Payment terms with customers can vary by customer; however, amounts billed are typically payable within 30 to 90 days, depending on the destination country. We do not make a practice of offering financing as part of our contracts with customers. We incur certain incremental costs to obtain contracts with customers, primarily in the form of sales commissions. Where the amortization period is one year or less, we have elected to apply the practical expedient and recognize the related commissions expense as incurred. Otherwise, such incremental costs are capitalized and amortized over the contract period. Capitalized incremental costs are not material. Revenue Recognition - ASC 605 (for 2016 and 2017 results in Consolidated Statements of Operations) Revenues consist primarily of hardware sales, software license fees, software implementation, project management services, installation, consulting, and post-sale maintenance support. Revenues are recognized when (1) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, (2) delivery has occurred or services have been rendered, (3) the sales price is fixed or determinable, and (4) collectability is reasonably assured. Many of our revenue arrangements involve multiple deliverables, which combine two or more of the following: hardware, meter reading system software, installation, and/or project management services. Separate contracts entered into with the same customer that meet certain criteria such as those that are entered into at or near the same time are evaluated as one single arrangement for purposes of applying multiple element arrangement revenue recognition. Revenue arrangements with multiple deliverables are divided into separate units of accounting at the inception of the arrangement and as each item in the arrangement is delivered. If the delivered item(s) has value to the customer on a standalone basis and delivery/performance of the undelivered item(s) is probable the total arrangement consideration is allocated among the separate units of accounting based on their relative fair values and the applicable revenue recognition criteria are then considered for each unit of accounting. The amount allocable to a delivered item is limited to the amount that we are entitled to collect and that is not contingent upon the delivery/performance of additional items. Revenues for each deliverable are then recognized based on the type of deliverable, such as (1) when the products are shipped, (2) services are delivered, (3) percentage-of-completion for implementation services, (4) upon receipt of customer acceptance, or 5) transfer of title and risk of loss. The majority of our revenue is recognized when products are shipped to or received by a customer or when services are provided. Hardware revenues are generally recognized at the time of shipment, receipt by the customer, or, if applicable, upon completion of customer acceptance provisions. Under contract accounting where revenue is recognized using percentage of completion, the cost to cost method is used to measure progress to completion. Revenue from OpenWay network software and services are recognized using the units-of-delivery method of contract accounting, as network design services and network software are essential to the functionality of the related hardware (network) for certain contracts. This methodology results in the deferral of costs and revenues as professional services and software implementation commence prior to deployment of hardware. In the unusual instances when we are unable to reliably estimate the cost to complete a contract at its inception, we use the completed contract method of contract accounting. Revenues and costs are recognized upon substantial completion when remaining costs are insignificant and potential risks are minimal. Change orders and contract modifications entered into after inception of the original contract are analyzed to determine if change orders or modifications are extensions of an existing agreement or are accounted for as a separate arrangement for purposes of applying contract accounting. If we estimate that the completion of a contract component (unit of accounting) will result in a loss, the loss is recognized in the period in which the loss becomes evident. We reevaluate the estimated loss through the completion of the contract component and adjust the estimated loss for changes in facts and circumstances. A few of our larger customer arrangements contain clauses for liquidated damages, related to delays in delivery or milestone accomplishments, which could become material in an event of failure to meet the contractual deadlines. At the inception of the arrangement and on an ongoing basis, we evaluate if the liquidated damages represent contingent revenue and, if so, we reduce the amount of consideration allocated to the delivered products and services and recognize it as a reduction in revenue in the period of default. If the arrangement is subject to contract accounting, liquidated damages resulting from failure or expected failure to meet milestones are estimated and are accounted for as a reduction of revenue in the period in which the liquidated damages are deemed probable of occurrence and are reasonably estimable. Our software customers often purchase a combination of software, software-related services, and post contract customer support (PCS). PCS includes telephone support services and updates or upgrades for software as part of a maintenance program. For these types of arrangements, revenue recognition is dependent upon the availability of vendor specific objective evidence (VSOE) of fair value for any undelivered element. We determine VSOE by reference to the range of comparable standalone sales or stated renewals. We review these standalone sales or renewals on at least an annual basis. If VSOE is established for all undelivered elements in the contract, revenue is recognized for delivered elements when all other revenue recognition criteria are met. Arrangements in which VSOE for all undelivered elements is not established, we recognize revenue under the combined services approach where revenue for software and software related elements is deferred until all software products have been delivered, all software related services have commenced, and undelivered services do not include significant production, customization or modification. This will also result in the deferral of costs for software and software implementation services until the undelivered element commence. Revenue would be recognized over the longest period that services would be provided, which is typically the PCS period. Cloud services and SaaS arrangements where customers have access to certain of our software within a cloud-based IT environment that we manage, host and support are offered to customers on a subscription basis. Revenue for the cloud services and SaaS offerings are generally recognized ratably over the contact term commencing with the date the services is made available to customers and all other revenue recognition criteria have been satisfied. For arrangements where cloud services and SaaS is provided on a per meter basis, revenue is recognized based on actual meters read during the period. Certain of our revenue arrangements include an extended or noncustomary warranty provision that covers all or a portion of a customer's replacement or repair costs beyond the standard or customary warranty period. Whether or not the extended warranty is separately priced in the arrangement, a portion of the arrangement's total consideration is allocated to this extended warranty deliverable. This revenue is deferred and recognized over the extended warranty coverage period. Extended or noncustomary warranties do not represent a significant portion of our revenue. We allocate consideration to each deliverable in an arrangement based on its relative selling price. We determine selling price using VSOE, if it exists, otherwise we use third-party evidence (TPE). We define VSOE as a median price of recent standalone transactions that are priced within a narrow range. TPE is determined based on the prices charged by our competitors for a similar deliverable when sold separately. If neither VSOE nor TPE of selling price exists for a unit of accounting, we use estimated selling price (ESP) to determine the price at which we would transact if the product or service were regularly sold by us on a standalone basis. Our determination of ESP involves a weighting of several factors based on the specific facts and circumstances of the arrangement. The factors considered include historical contractual sales, market conditions and entity specific factors, the cost to produce the deliverable, the anticipated margin on that deliverable, our ongoing pricing strategy and policies, and the characteristics of the varying markets in which the deliverable is sold. We analyze the selling prices used in our allocation of arrangement consideration on an annual basis. Selling prices are analyzed on a more frequent basis if a significant change in our business necessitates a more timely analysis or if we experience significant variances in our selling prices. Unearned revenue is recognized when a customer pays for products or services, but the criteria for revenue recognition have not been met as of the balance sheet date. Unearned revenue of $77.0 million and $114.3 million at December 31, 2017 and 2016 related primarily to professional services and software associated with our smart metering contracts, extended or noncustomary warranty, and prepaid post-contract support. Deferred costs are recognized for products or services for which ownership (typically defined as title and risk of loss) has transferred to the customer, but the criteria for revenue recognition have not been met as of the balance sheet date. Deferred costs were $14.4 million and $34.4 million at December 31, 2017 and 2016 and are recognized within other assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Hardware and software post-sale maintenance support fees, such as post contract support or extended warranty are recognized ratably over the life of the related service contract. Shipping and handling costs and incidental expenses billed to customers are recognized as revenue, with the associated cost charged to cost of revenues. We recognize sales, use, and value added taxes billed to our customers on a net basis. Product and Software Development Costs Product and software development costs primarily include employee compensation and third-party contracting fees. We do not capitalize product development costs, and we do not generally capitalize development expenses for computer software to be sold, leased, or otherwise marketed as the costs incurred are immaterial for the relatively short period of time between technological feasibility and the completion of software development. Stock-Based Compensation We grant various stock-based compensation awards to our officers, employees and Board of Directors with service, performance, and market vesting conditions, including stock options, restricted stock units, phantom stock units, and unrestricted stock units (awards). We measure and recognize compensation expense for all awards based on estimated fair values. For awards with only a service condition, we expense stock-based compensation using the straight-line method over the requisite service period for the entire award. For awards with service and performance conditions, if vesting is probable, we expense the stock-based compensation on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for each separately vesting portion of the award. For awards with a market condition, we expense the fair value over the requisite service period. We have elected to account for forfeitures of any awards in stock-based compensation expense prospectively as they occur. The fair value of stock options is estimated at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. Options to purchase our common stock are granted with an exercise price equal to the market close price of the stock on the date the Board of Directors approves the grant. Options generally become exercisable in three equal annual installments beginning one year from the date of grant and expire 10 years from the date of grant. Expected volatility is based on a combination of the historical volatility of our common stock and the implied volatility of our traded options for the related expected term. We believe this combined approach is reflective of current and historical market conditions and is an appropriate indicator of expected volatility. The risk-free interest rate is the rate available as of the award date on zero-coupon U.S. government issues with a term equal to the expected term of the award. The expected term is the weighted average expected term of an award based on the period of time between the date the award is granted and the estimated date the award will be fully exercised. Factors considered in estimating the expected term include historical experience of similar awards, contractual terms, vesting schedules, and expectations of future employee behavior. We have not paid dividends in the past and do not plan to pay dividends in the foreseeable future. The fair value of a restricted stock unit is the market close price of our common stock on the date of grant. Restricted stock units vest over a maximum period of three years. After vesting, the restricted stock units are converted into shares of our common stock on a one-for-one basis and issued to employees. Certain restricted stock units are issued under the Long-Term Performance Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement and include performance and market conditions. The final number of shares issued will be based on the achievement of financial targets and our total shareholder return relative to the Russell 3000 Index during the performance periods. Due to the presence of a market condition, we utilize a Monte Carlo valuation model to determine the fair value of the awards at the grant date. Expected volatility is based on the historical volatility of our common stock for the related expected term. We believe this approach is reflective of current and historical market conditions and is an appropriate indicator of expected volatility. The risk-free interest rate is the rate available as of the award date on zero-coupon U.S. government issues with a term equal to the expected term of the award. The expected term is the term of an award based on the period of time between the date of the award and the date the award is expected to vest. The expected term assumption is based upon the plan's performance period as of the date of the award. We have not paid dividends in the past and do not plan to pay dividends in the foreseeable future. Phantom stock units are a form of share-based award that are indexed to our stock price and are settled in cash upon vesting and accounted for as liability-based awards. Fair value is remeasured at the end of each reporting period based on the market close price of our common stock. Phantom stock units vest over a maximum period of three years. Since phantom stock units are settled in cash, compensation expense recognized over the vesting period will vary based on changes in fair value. The fair value of unrestricted stock awards is the market close price of our common stock on the date of grant, and awards are fully vested. We expense stock-based compensation at the date of grant for unrestricted stock awards. Excess tax benefits and deficiencies resulting from employee share-based payment are recognized as income tax provision or benefit in the Consolidated Statements of Operations, and as an operating activity on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. We also maintain an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) for our employees. Under the terms of the ESPP, employees can deduct up to 10% of their regular cash compensation to purchase our common stock at a 5% discount from the fair market value of the stock at the end of each fiscal quarter, subject to other limitations under the plan. The sale of the stock to the employees occurs at the beginning of the subsequent quarter. The ESPP is not considered compensatory, and no compensation expense is recognized for sales of our common stock to employees.Income TaxesWe account for income taxes using the asset and liability method of accounting. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized based upon anticipated future tax consequences, in each of the jurisdictions that we operate, attributable to: (1) the differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective income tax bases; and (2) net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured annually using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The calculation of our tax liabilities involves applying complex tax regulations in different tax jurisdictions to our tax positions. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax legislation and/or rates is recognized in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance is recognized to reduce the carrying amounts of deferred tax assets if it is not more likely than not that such assets will be realized. We do not recognize tax liabilities on undistributed earnings of international subsidiaries that are permanently reinvested.Foreign Exchange Our consolidated financial statements are reported in U.S. dollars. Assets and liabilities of international subsidiaries with non-U.S. dollar functional currencies are translated to U.S. dollars at the exchange rates in effect on the balance sheet date, or the last business day of the period, if applicable. Revenues and expenses for each subsidiary are translated to U.S. dollars using a weighted average rate for the relevant reporting period. Translation adjustments resulting from this process are included, net of tax, in OCI. Gains and losses that arise from exchange rate fluctuations for monetary asset and liability balances that are not denominated in an entity's functional currency are included within other income (expense), net in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Currency gains and losses of intercompany balances deemed to be long-term in nature or designated as a hedge of the net investment in international subsidiaries are included, net of tax, in OCI. Foreign currency losses, net of hedging, of $3.0 million, $5.1 million, and $0.3 million were included in other expenses, net, for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Fair Value Measurements For assets and liabilities measured at fair value, the GAAP fair value hierarchy prioritizes the inputs used in different valuation methodologies, assigning the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets and liabilities in actively traded markets (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). Level 2 inputs consist of quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in non-active markets; and model-derived valuations in which significant inputs are corroborated by observable market data either directly or indirectly through correlation or other means. Inputs may include yield curves, volatility, credit risks, and default rates. New Accounting Pronouncements In February 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) (ASU 2016-02), which requires substantially all leases be recognized by lessees on their balance sheet as a right-of- use asset and corresponding lease liability, including leases currently accounted for as operating leases. The new standard also will result in enhanced quantitative and qualitative disclosures, including significant judgments made by management, to provide greater insight into the extent of revenue and expense recognized and expected to be recognized from existing leases. The standard requires modified retrospective adoption and will be effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. In July 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-10, Codification Improvements to Topic 842, Leases (ASU 2018-10), to clarify, improve, and correct various aspects of ASU 2016-02, and also issued ASU 2018-11, Targeted Improvements to Topic 842, Leases (ASU 2018-11), to simplify transition requirements and, for lessors, provide a practical expedient for the separation of nonlease components from lease components. The effective date and transition requirements in ASU 2018-10 and ASU 2018-11 are the same as the effective date and transition requirements of ASU 2016-02. We currently believe the most significant impact relates to our real estate leases and the increased financial statement disclosures, with an increase to both total assets and total liabilities between $65 million and $85 million. In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326) (ASU 2016-13), which replaces the incurred loss impairment methodology in current GAAP with a methodology based on expected credit losses. This estimate of expected credit losses uses a broader range of reasonable and supportable information. This change will result in earlier recognition of credit losses. ASU 2016-13 is effective for annual reporting periods, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2019. We are currently evaluating the impact of this standard on our consolidated financial statements, including accounting policies, processes, and systems. In October 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-16, Income Taxes: Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory (Topic 740) (ASU 2016-16), which removes the prohibition in ASC 740 against the immediate recognition of the current and deferred income tax effects of intra-entity transfers of assets other than inventory. Under ASU 2016-16, the selling entity is required to recognize a current tax expense or benefit upon transfer of the asset. Similarly, the purchasing entity is required to recognize a deferred tax asset or deferred tax liability, as well as the related deferred tax benefit or expense, upon receipt of the asset. The resulting deferred tax asset or deferred tax liability is measured by computing the difference between the tax basis of the asset in the buyer's jurisdiction and its financial reporting carrying value in the consolidated financial statements and multiplying such difference by the enacted tax rate in the buyer's jurisdiction. ASU 2016-16 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017 with early adoption permitted. We adopted this standard effective January 1, 2018 using the modified retrospective transition method, recognizing a $0.8 million one-time decrease to accumulated deficit. In March 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-07, Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost (ASU 2017-07), which provides additional guidance on the presentation of net benefit costs in the income statement. ASU 2017-07 requires an employer to disaggregate the service cost component from the other components of net benefit cost and to disclose other components outside of a subtotal of income from operations. It also allows only the service cost component of net benefit costs to be eligible for capitalization. ASU 2017-07 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017 with early adoption permitted. We adopted this standard on January 1, 2018 retrospectively for the presentation of the service cost component of net periodic pension cost in the statement of operations, and prospectively for the capitalization of the service cost component of net periodic pension cost. For applying the retrospective presentation requirements, we elected to utilize amounts previously disclosed in our defined benefit pension plan footnote for the prior comparative periods as the estimation basis for applying the retrospective presentation. This resulted in a reclassification of an immaterial amount of net periodic pension benefit costs from operating income to other income (expense) in all periods presented on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. In August 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-12, Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities, which amends and simplifies existing guidance in order to allow companies to more accurately present the economic effects of risk management activities in the financial statements. This update expands and refines hedge accounting for both nonfinancial and financial risk components and aligns the recognition and presentation of the effects of the hedging instrument and the hedged item in the financial statements. Additionally, the amendments in ASU 2017-12 provide new guidance about income statement classification and eliminates the requirement to separately measure and report hedge ineffectiveness. ASU 2017-12 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. We adopted this standard on April 1, 2018 and it did not materially impact our consolidated results of operations, financial position, cash flows, or related financial statement disclosures. In October 2018 the FASB issued ASU 2018-16, Inclusion of the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) Overnight Index Swap (OIS) Rate as a Benchmark Interest Rate for Hedge Accounting Purposes and is effective for Itron for the first quarter of 2019. This update establishes OIS rates based on SOFR as an approved benchmark interest rate in addition to existing rates such as the LIBOR swap rate. In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-13, Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement (ASU 2018-13) which amends the disclosure requirements under ASC 820, Fair Value Measurements. ASU 2018-13 is effective for us beginning with our interim financial reports for the first quarter of 2020. In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-14, Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Defined Benefit Plans (ASU 2018-14) which amends the disclosure requirements under ASC 715-20, Compensation—Retirement Benefits—Defined Benefit Plans. ASU 2018-14 is effective for our financial reporting in 2020. We are currently evaluating the impact this standard will have on our financial statement disclosures for our defined benefit plan.

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