Buffett-owned utility warns of strained liquidity from wildfire trials

Core Viewpoint - PacifiCorp, a utility owned by Berkshire Hathaway, is facing potential liquidity issues and the risk of losing its investment-grade status due to accelerated trials related to the 2020 Labor Day weekend wildfires in Oregon [1][3]. Financial Implications - The company has set aside $2.85 billion for lawsuits, including $100 million in Q3, related to claims totaling $55 billion for damages from the wildfires that affected over 2,000 structures and 500,000 acres [1][4]. - A judge's decision to increase the trial pace could significantly strain PacifiCorp's liquidity and credit metrics, with dozens of trials scheduled for 2026 and over 100 more in 2027 and 2028 [3]. Legal Challenges - PacifiCorp is facing $52 billion in claims from the James litigation, with 109 plaintiffs awarded $589 million in mini-trials [4]. - The utility has agreed to pay over $1.5 billion to wildfire claimants, including a recent $125 million settlement with 93 Oregon wineries and vineyards [4]. Management Commentary - Berkshire Hathaway's leadership acknowledged past mistakes in managing wildfire liabilities for PacifiCorp, emphasizing the challenge of balancing service continuity during wildfire threats with financial responsibilities [5].