Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported consolidated earnings of $1.14 per share for Q3 2025, an increase from $1.09 per share in the same quarter last year [3][9] - Consolidated net income was $231 million, compared to $219 million in the previous year [9] - The electric company achieved net income of $243 million, or $1.20 per diluted share, compared to $225 million, or $1.20 per share last year [9][10] - The holding company reported a loss of $12 million, or $0.06 per diluted share, compared to a loss of $6 million, or $0.03 per share last year [10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The main driver for the increase in net income was the recovery of capital investments, despite higher O&M and income taxes [10] - Year-over-year customer growth was just under 1% in Q3, with weather-normalized load growth at 6.5% [10][11] - The company expects total retail normalized load growth of approximately 7.5% in 2025 [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted that Oklahoma customers will see a decrease in their monthly bill due to a reduction in the fuel cost adjustment, averaging $6.75 lower per month [5] - The unemployment rate in Oklahoma City remains below 4% for the 48th consecutive month, indicating strong local economic conditions [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on building 450 MW of natural gas generation, expected to be operational by 2029, and has 550 MW of combustion turbines under construction [4] - The updated capital plan includes a $250 million project for the Fort Smith to Muskogee transmission line, aimed at addressing reliability and capacity issues [11] - The company aims to maintain competitive low rates while supporting growth and reliability in its service area [12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in delivering results in the top half of the 2025 earnings guidance range, citing strong operational performance and favorable regulatory outcomes [3][9] - The company is optimistic about future growth opportunities, particularly in the data center sector, which is expected to contribute to load growth [7][9] Other Important Information - The company has reached a settlement regarding its Oklahoma pre-approval request, which may shift the planned rate review to the second half of next year [13] - The company is committed to maintaining a strong balance sheet, which is considered a competitive advantage [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: CapEx needs and RFP process - Management anticipates approval for the pre-approval request soon and plans to layer in updates as they progress with the RFP process [16][17] Question: Regulatory constructs and ROE lag - Management indicated that they have a good track record on minimizing ROE lag and will include benefits in the 2026 planning assumptions [18] Question: 2025 load growth outlook - Management confirmed that the load growth outlook of 7.5% for 2025 is at the low end of the prior range due to timing issues with customer load [26] Question: Dividend growth rate - The company targets a dividend growth rate of 65% to 70% payout ratio, with plans to reassess capital allocation once that target is reached [44] Question: Data center negotiations - Management confirmed they are in serious negotiations regarding data center projects and will file necessary approvals with the commission [54]