Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In 2025, the company achieved an adjusted net income of $283.9 million, an increase of 8.7% from $261.2 million in 2024, exceeding guidance by nearly $9 million [26][27] - Adjusted earnings per diluted share from continuing operations rose nearly 19% from $3.07 in 2024 to $3.65 in 2025 [25] - The adjusted return on equity for the year was 8.3%, supported by utility optimization efforts and effective cost management [6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The utility's substantial net income growth was primarily driven by positive regulatory outcomes and strong economic activity in the service area [11] - Rate relief and continued customer growth contributed approximately $0.30 per share to EPS, while increased depreciation and amortization, along with higher interest expenses, partially offset these gains [25][27] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company anticipates significant earnings per share growth of 12%-14% from 2025 to 2030, driven by improvements in the regulatory environment and the Great Basin project [8][41] - The expected revenue increase in the Arizona rate case is over $100 million, with a proposed rate base of $3.9 billion [17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company has transitioned to a fully regulated natural gas business following the successful disposition of Centuri, allowing for a stronger balance sheet and focus on core operations [4] - The strategic priorities for 2026 include improving returns, advancing customer-focused investments, and strengthening regulatory frameworks [9][10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about future growth opportunities, particularly with the anticipated improvements in regulatory frameworks in Arizona and Nevada [8][41] - The company plans to maintain a disciplined strategy focused on investing in capital plans while sustaining responsible annual dividend growth [9][39] Other Important Information - The board approved a 4% increase in the annual dividend, bringing it to an annualized $2.58 per share for 2026 [39] - The company has a cash balance of nearly $600 million, expected to fund current year dividend payments and be redeployed into utility business investments [11][33] Q&A Session Summary Question: Discussion on equity timing and engagement with rating agencies - Management indicated that they do not anticipate equity needs in 2026 and plan to utilize holding company leverage capacity to minimize equity requirements [50][53] Question: Inquiry about the Great Basin project capacity and customer interest - Management confirmed strong demand for the Great Basin project, with nearly 800 MCF subscribed, and indicated potential for future open seasons to capture additional interest [56][58] Question: Clarification on earnings uplift cadence and regulatory lag reduction - Management highlighted that upcoming rate cases in Arizona and Nevada are expected to be catalysts for reducing regulatory lag and improving earnings visibility [60][62] Question: Earnings contribution from Great Basin post-in-service - Management projected that the Great Basin project would contribute an incremental margin of approximately $215 million-$245 million once in service [70] Question: Progress in Nevada workshops and ROE considerations - Management reported positive progress in Nevada workshops and indicated that recent regulatory decisions could provide a constructive framework for future rate cases [76][79]

For the fourth quarter, EOG posted net income of $701 million, or $1.30 per share, compared with $1.25 billion, or $2.23 per share, in the same period a year earlier. Adjusted net income was $1.22 billion, or $2.27 per share. Results included $689 million in GAAP impairments, primarily tied to the write-down of natural gas and crude oil assets in the Barnett Shale and Woodford Oil Window. Total revenue was $5.64 billion. Net cash provided by operating activities reached $2.61 billion, while adjusted cas ...

Core Viewpoint - NorthWestern Corporation has updated its five-year capital plan to $3.21 billion, reflecting a 17% increase, and initiated 2026 earnings guidance, indicating growth prospects despite various challenges. Financial Performance - For the fourth quarter, NorthWestern reported adjusted EPS of $1.17, up from $1.13 in the same quarter of 2024, with improved margins attributed to new rates and regulatory execution, offset by mild weather and increased operating costs [3] - The company reported full-year 2025 GAAP diluted EPS of $2.94 and non-GAAP diluted EPS of $3.58, with a 1.5% increase in quarterly dividend to $0.67 per share [5][8] - CFO noted that 2025 non-GAAP results showed 5.3% growth over 2024, despite headwinds such as merger-related costs and warm weather [4] Capital Plan and Investments - The five-year capital plan has been increased to $3.21 billion, including a $300 million South Dakota natural gas project, with expectations for equity financing beyond 2026 on a 50/50 debt-to-equity basis [1][7] - Management indicated that the base capital plan remains self-funded, but incremental investments in South Dakota will likely require additional equity [8] Merger and Regulatory Developments - NorthWestern has filed for an all-stock "merger of equals" with Black Hills, with shareholder votes scheduled for April 2, 2026, and expects the deal to close in the second half of 2026 [6][10] - Joint merger approval requests have been filed in multiple states, with hearings expected in the second quarter of 2026 [11] Large-load and Data Center Initiatives - The company is actively pursuing large-load and data center opportunities in Montana and South Dakota, with progress on letters of intent and development agreements [12][19] - NorthWestern plans to file a Montana large-load tariff in conjunction with signed electric service agreements to ensure fair cost distribution among large-load customers [13] Colstrip Ownership and Cost Recovery - NorthWestern has increased its ownership in Colstrip through acquisitions, enhancing its strategic influence and ability to serve large-load customers [15] - The company has filed for cost recovery measures related to its acquisitions, expecting to offset significant incremental operating costs [16]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported GAAP diluted EPS of $2.94 and non-GAAP diluted EPS of $3.58, reflecting a 5.3% growth from 2024 on a non-GAAP basis [7][9][15] - The quarterly dividend is being increased by 1.5% to $0.67 per share [7] - The company is initiating 2026 earnings guidance in the range of $3.68-$3.83 per share, representing a 5% growth at the midpoint from 2025 results [8][16] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The improved margin reflects new rates and regulatory execution, although it was offset by mild weather and higher operating costs [10][12] - Adjusted earnings for the fourth quarter were $1.17, compared to $1.13 in Q4 2024, despite unfavorable weather impacts [11][15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has made significant progress in data center growth opportunities, signing a third letter of intent for a 500+ MW data center and advancing with Sabey to a development agreement [7][24] - The company is actively pursuing large load customers in both Montana and South Dakota, with ongoing discussions and agreements in place [26][27] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company announced an all-stock merger agreement with Black Hills Corporation, expected to close in the second half of 2026, which aims to enhance scale and growth opportunities [4][20] - The updated five-year capital plan is set at $3.21 billion, a 17% increase over the prior plan, focusing on self-funded capital and maintaining high credit quality [8][17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the legislative outcomes in Montana, which support transmission investments and wildfire risk management [5][6] - The company is optimistic about its ability to serve large load customers and the benefits of the merger, which is expected to create long-term value for both shareholders and customers [20][22] Other Important Information - The company has filed joint requests for merger approval in multiple states and is preparing for hearings in the second quarter of 2026 [23] - The company is addressing environmental concerns related to Colstrip and is prepared to invest in necessary upgrades if required [81][83] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on large load tariff filing - The company plans to file a large load tariff once a signed ESA is in place, aiming for completion by the end of Q2 2026 [39][41] Question: Education plan for stakeholders regarding data centers - Management is focused on demonstrating the benefits of data centers and ensuring that they contribute fairly to system costs [42][45] Question: ESA strategy and financing implications - The company is working to ensure that ESAs protect customers while also addressing the unique needs of each data center [60][62] Question: Update on South Dakota plant and environmental upgrades - The South Dakota plant is expected to be completed by 2030, and the company is prepared to invest in environmental upgrades as necessary [78][81] Question: Concerns about merger regulatory delays - Management is confident in the timelines for both South Dakota and Montana, stating that the processes are progressing as expected [94][95]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved fourth quarter 2025 operating earnings of $1.19 per share, bringing full year 2025 operating earnings to $5.97 per share, exceeding the top end of the guidance range [9] - Total shareholder return for 2025 was 29%, one of the highest in the industry [9] - The company reaffirmed its 2026 full-year operating earnings guidance range of $6.15-$6.45 per share, with a long-term earnings growth rate of 7%-9% for 2026-2030 [10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The retail sales grew by 7.5% in 2025 compared to 2024, driven by significant commercial and industrial sales growth of nearly 10% [24] - The generation and marketing segment saw favorable energy margins and benefits from contract optimization [22] - The company reported a year-over-year increase in earned ROE on the regulated business to 9.1%, up 30 basis points from two years ago [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company now has 56 gigawatts of firm incremental contracted load additions, doubling the previous 28 gigawatts reported [11] - The growth in contracted load is primarily driven by data centers in Texas, Ohio, and Indiana, with 90% of the incremental PJM load supported by executed take or pay electric service agreements [25] - In ERCOT, AEP Texas has signed letters of agreement for 36 gigawatts with large industrial customers and data center developers [26] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on significant infrastructure investment to meet unprecedented customer demand across its 11-state regulated service territory [5] - AEP is deepening engagement with customers, regulators, and suppliers to align long-term goals and achieve favorable outcomes [6] - The company is exploring generation solutions, including small modular reactors and fuel cells, to support customer demand [12][13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted the importance of scale in mitigating supply chain risks and meeting massive system demand [6] - The company is committed to maintaining affordability for residential customers while supporting incremental load growth through innovative rate design [18] - Management expressed confidence in the execution of their robust plan and the ability to capitalize on unprecedented opportunities ahead for the grid [18] Other Important Information - The company has a large but conservative $72 billion five-year capital plan, yielding a 10% rate-based CAGR [10] - AEP is actively working on regulatory strategies to keep customer affordability top of mind, including tariff filings in multiple states [12][17] Q&A Session Summary Question: What could the doubling of signed contract load mean for CAGR? - Management indicated that the $72 billion five-year capital plan does not include the incremental load growth and will provide more definitive ideas around financing and growth rate in future calls [38][40] Question: What protections are in place for the ESAs? - Management expressed confidence in the financial security of counterparties and the take or pay component of the large load tariffs, ensuring that costs do not negatively impact existing customers [43][44] Question: Can you provide more details on transmission projects? - Management stated that there is approximately $5 billion associated with transmission projects, with specific amounts allocated to SPP, PJM, and MISO [58] Question: How do you view the contracted generation business? - Management sees contracted generation as complementary to their core business, providing solutions to customers for quicker connections [71][72] Question: What is the status of the 36 gigawatts in ERCOT? - Management confirmed that they are prepared to deliver on these projects and are closely monitoring the implementation of SB 6 [95]

Q4 2025 EARNINGS CONFERENCE CALL February 12, 2026 FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION Fortis includes forward-looking information in this presentation within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws and forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (collectively referred to as "forward-looking information"). Forward-looking information reflects expectations of Fortis management regarding future growth, results of operations, performance and business ...

Core Insights - WEC Energy Group reported adjusted earnings of $5.27 per share for 2025, reflecting a year-over-year increase of $0.39, driven by utility operations and excluding a one-time charge related to a proposed settlement in Illinois [2][3][5] Financial Performance - The company emphasized solid results in customer satisfaction, financial performance, and execution of its capital plan [2] - Adjusted earnings for 2026 are projected to be between $5.51 and $5.61 per share, with a first-quarter estimate of $2.27 to $2.37 per share [4][20] - The annual dividend was increased by 6.7% to $3.81, marking the 23rd consecutive year of growth [4][22] Capital Plan and Growth Projections - WEC announced a five-year capital plan of $37.5 billion to support anticipated large-load growth of 3.9 GW, primarily driven by major data center projects [4][12][13] - The company aims for a long-term earnings-per-share compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7% to 8% from 2026 to 2030 [4][13] Regulatory Matters - In Wisconsin, the proposed Very Large Customer (VLC) tariff is under review, with a commission order expected soon [15] - In Illinois, a proposed settlement could resolve approximately $2.3 billion in open dockets, including a $130 million rate-base reduction and $125 million in customer credits over three years [17] Demand Growth and Infrastructure Investments - Retail electric deliveries in Wisconsin are projected to grow by 1.6% in 2026, with significant increases expected in the large commercial and industrial segments [6] - Major data center projects, including Microsoft's and Vantage's developments, are expected to significantly contribute to demand growth, with Microsoft alone adding 500 MW to the forecast [8][10] Financing Plans - WEC anticipates $4 billion to $5 billion in debt funding for 2026, alongside $900 million to $1.1 billion in equity issuance [21] - The company plans to fund incremental capital with 50% equity content, including investments tied to Microsoft-related projects [21]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported adjusted earnings of $5.27 per share for 2025, an increase of $0.39 per share compared to 2024 adjusted earnings [3][15] - Weather positively impacted utility earnings by approximately $0.35 relative to last year, with a favorable impact of $0.10 in 2025 compared to a $0.25 unfavorable impact in 2024 [15][16] - The company expects long-term earnings per share growth of 7%-8% annually from 2026 to 2030, with acceleration to the upper half of the range starting in 2028 [9][22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted earnings from utility operations increased by $0.63 in 2025 compared to 2024, driven by rate-based growth and weather impacts [15] - Earnings from the American Transmission Company increased by $0.02 due to continued capital investment [17] - The energy infrastructure segment saw a $0.10 increase in earnings from higher production tax credits associated with solar generation projects [17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Retail electric deliveries in Wisconsin increased by 1.1% year-over-year, with projections for 2026 indicating a growth of 1.6% from 2025 levels [16] - The company is projecting a total of 3.9 gigawatts of electric demand growth in its five-year plan, driven by expansions from Microsoft and Vantage Data Centers [8][21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on executing a $37.5 billion capital plan over the next five years to meet growing energy needs [9][10] - Investments include $7.4 billion in natural gas generation and LNG storage, and $12.6 billion in renewable energy projects [10] - The company aims to maintain a reliable generation mix while expanding its renewable energy capacity [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the ability to execute the capital plan and continue growth, citing strong economic growth in the region [4][22] - The company is addressing regulatory matters, including a proposed settlement in Illinois that would resolve several pending cases [12][20] - Management highlighted the importance of transparency and community engagement in attracting new customers, particularly in the data center sector [43] Other Important Information - The board increased the dividend by 6.7% to an annualized $3.81 per share, marking the 23rd consecutive year of dividend increases [20] - The company plans to issue between $900 million and $1.1 billion of common equity in 2026 [19] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on the 500 megawatts related to Microsoft and the additional capital expenditures? - Management indicated that Microsoft is expanding its data center operations, which is expected to add 500 MW of customer demand and $1 billion to the capital plan [24][25] Question: Are there other hyperscaler customers showing interest? - Management confirmed ongoing discussions with other potential customers and emphasized the importance of transparency in addressing community concerns [41][43] Question: What is the status of the very large customer tariff and general rate case? - Management stated that the tariff is undergoing a thorough vetting process and that the general rate case filing is on track for April [55][56] Question: How will the Microsoft ramp impact customer rates? - Management noted that as data center activity increases, it could lead to a reduction in the burden on other customers, but quantifying this impact will take time [74][90] Question: What are the plans for replacing the Point Beach PPA? - Management indicated that they are evaluating options for replacement generation and are confident in their ability to meet future energy needs [80][81]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported adjusted earnings of $5.27 per share for 2025, an increase of $0.39 per share compared to 2024 [3][15] - Adjusted earnings from utility operations increased by $0.63 per share, with weather positively impacting utility earnings by approximately $0.35 [15][16] - Overall, the company achieved an 8% year-over-year growth in adjusted EPS [18] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted earnings from the energy infrastructure segment increased by $0.10 due to higher production tax credits from solar projects [17] - The investment in American Transmission Company saw earnings increase by $0.02, driven by capital investments [17] - Retail electric deliveries in Wisconsin increased by 1.1% year-over-year, with projections for a 1.6% growth in 2026 [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is projecting a total of 3.9 GW of electric demand growth in the I-94 corridor and north of Milwaukee over the next five years [8][9] - The capital plan has been updated to $37.5 billion over the next five years, driven by increased demand from data centers [9][21] - The company expects long-term earnings per share growth of 7%-8% annually from 2026 to 2030 [9][22] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on executing its capital plan, which includes significant investments in natural gas generation and renewable energy [9][10] - The strategy includes maintaining a balanced generation mix and investing in modern, efficient energy solutions [9] - The company aims to enhance transparency and protect other customers through the proposed Very Large Customer tariff [11][43] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to execute its capital plan and continue its growth trajectory [10][22] - The economic growth in the region is driving demand, with significant investments from partners like Microsoft and Vantage Data Centers [4][6] - Management highlighted the importance of addressing affordability in light of upcoming rate cases and political considerations [62][64] Other Important Information - The company plans to issue between $900 million and $1.1 billion of common equity in 2026 [19] - A proposed settlement in Illinois is expected to resolve approximately $2.3 billion of open dockets, including a $130 million rate-based reduction [12][86] - The board approved a 6.7% increase in dividends, marking the 23rd consecutive year of dividend increases [20] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on the 500 MW related to Microsoft and the additional CapEx? - Management indicated that Microsoft is expanding its data center operations, which is expected to add 500 MW of demand and $1 billion to the capital plan [24][25] Question: How are negotiations for Point Beach progressing? - Management stated that they are in communication with NextEra and are considering options for replacement power as contracts end in 2030 and 2033 [32] Question: Are there additional interests from other hyperscaler customers? - Management confirmed ongoing discussions with other potential customers and emphasized the importance of transparency and community engagement [41][43] Question: What is the expected impact of the Very Large Customer tariff on general customers? - Management explained that the tariff aims to ensure large customers pay their fair share, which could help mitigate rate increases for other customers [54][87] Question: How does the Microsoft ramp impact customer rates? - Management noted that as data centers grow, corporate allocations will spread across a larger rate base, potentially benefiting other customers in the long term [90]

Core Viewpoint - American Electric Power Company, Inc. (AEP) is a leading U.S. electric utility with a market cap of $64.1 billion, serving approximately 5.6 million customers through a vast network of generation and distribution assets [1]. Group 1: Stock Performance - AEP shares have outperformed the broader market over the past 52 weeks, rising 22.6%, compared to a 14% increase in the S&P 500 Index [2]. - Year-to-date, AEP shares are up 4.1%, while the S&P 500 has seen only a marginal rise [2]. - AEP has also surpassed the State Street Utilities Select Sector SPDR ETF's (XLU) return of 11% over the same period [3]. Group 2: Financial Performance and Outlook - Despite reporting a weaker-than-expected Q3 2025 adjusted EPS of $1.80, AEP's shares increased by 6.1% following the announcement of a $72 billion five-year capital plan, which includes 28 GW of new customer-backed load and a projected 10% annual rate base growth to $128 billion by 2030 [6]. - AEP has set a long-term operating earnings growth target of 7% - 9% through 2030, with management projecting 2026 operating EPS between $6.15 and $6.45 [6]. - For the fiscal year ending December 2025, analysts expect AEP's adjusted EPS to grow nearly 5% year-over-year to $5.90, with a strong earnings surprise history [7]. Group 3: Analyst Ratings - Among 22 analysts covering AEP, the consensus rating is a "Moderate Buy," consisting of seven "Strong Buy" ratings, one "Moderate Buy," 13 "Holds," and one "Strong Sell" [7]. - Morgan Stanley analyst David Arcaro reaffirmed a "Buy" rating on AEP with a price target of $125 [8].