Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported GAAP and recurring earnings of $1.5 per share for the first quarter, compared to $1.49 per share in the previous year, indicating a slight increase in earnings [18] - Higher utility earnings were largely offset by a decrease in parent and other earnings, with the natural gas segment showing improved results due to higher revenues from infrastructure investments [19][20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Electric transmission earnings increased by $0.04 per share due to increased revenues from system investments, while electric distribution earnings rose by $0.03 per share from grid modernization and rate increases in New Hampshire and Massachusetts [19] - The natural gas segment's earnings improved by $0.06 per share, primarily due to higher revenues from infrastructure investments and base distribution rate increases [19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is projecting an 8% growth in rate base over the next five years, with a strategic shift towards higher distribution spending in Massachusetts to meet electrification goals [8][9] - The company is examining opportunities related to ISO New England's new RFP for transmission operators to address future load growth [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to leverage its strengths in transmission and distribution investment opportunities, reaffirming its 2025 EPS guidance and long-term EPS growth rate of 5% to 7% through 2029 [6][17] - The company is focused on customer innovation and affordability, investing in advanced technologies to enhance reliability and efficiency [10][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to continue driving value for customers and shareholders, emphasizing a commitment to financial strength and sustainability [16][17] - The company is actively working with regulators and communities to address affordability and transparency in energy bills, particularly in response to high gas bills [12][13] Other Important Information - The company is divesting Aquarion Water, which is expected to close by the end of the year, and anticipates improvements in its FFO to debt ratio as a result [14][27] - The company has a five-year capital plan of $24.2 billion, reflecting a 10% increase over the last plan, with significant investments in transmission and distribution infrastructure [23][24] Q&A Session Summary Question: Tariff exposure related to offshore projects - Management confirmed that all necessary equipment has been procured for the offshore project, with no anticipated challenges related to tariffs [33][34] Question: Regulatory approval timeline for Aquarion divestment - Management expects the transaction to close in 2025, with a straightforward regulatory approval process anticipated [40][41] Question: Impact of securitization on equity needs - Management indicated that if securitization occurs, it would revisit its equity needs, but did not assume it in the current financing strategy [48][49] Question: Updates on AMI process - Management is seeking clarity on the recovery of expenditures related to the AMI program and is committed to spending as directed by Connecticut [51] Question: Thoughts on PURA composition and timing - Management is eager for a stable regulatory environment but could not predict the timing of filling the remaining seats on PURA [56][57] Question: FFO to debt improvement expectations - Management expects significant improvement in FFO to debt metrics, driven by enhanced cash flows from operations [60][61] Question: Upcoming Millstone recontracting rates - Management noted that it is too early to determine the impact of the Millstone contract, which is up in 2029 [72][73] Question: GSEP rule changes impact - Management stated that the recent GSEP decision would not have a major impact on their operations and they are supportive of exploring non-pipe alternatives [81][82] Question: Completion percentage of the Revolution project - Management did not provide a specific percentage of project completion but confirmed that construction is progressing well [83] Question: Regulatory under recoveries and future expectations - Management highlighted the RAM docket as significant for recovery, with timely adjustments expected in Massachusetts and New Hampshire [89][90]