TORONTO, May 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- LNG Energy Group Corp. (TSXV: LNGE) (TSXV: LNGE.WT) (OTCQB: LNGNF) (FWB: E26) (the “Company” or “LNG Energy Group”) announces that, further to the news release dated May 7, 2025, the Ontario Securities Commission (the “OSC”), has notified the Company that it has issued a failure-to-file cease trade order (“FFCTO”), under Multilateral Instrument 11-103 – Failure-to-File Cease Trade Orders in Multiple Jurisdictions against the Company (“MI 11-103”). The FFCTO was issu ...

Core Viewpoint - Ormat Technologies Inc. reported strong first-quarter 2025 results, with adjusted earnings per share exceeding expectations, although total revenues fell slightly short of estimates. The company continues to face challenges in its electricity segment but showed significant growth in its product and energy segments [1][2][4]. Financial Performance - Adjusted earnings per share for Q1 2025 were 68 cents, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 58 cents by 17.2% and increasing 4.6% from 65 cents in the prior year [1]. - Total revenues reached $229.8 million, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $233 million by 1.4%, but reflecting a year-over-year increase of 2.5% [2]. - GAAP earnings were reported at 66 cents, compared to 64 cents in the year-ago quarter [1]. Segmental Performance - Electricity segment revenues were $180.2 million, down 5.8% year over year due to energy curtailments and maintenance issues [3]. - Product segment revenues increased by 27.9% to $31.8 million, attributed to timing of revenue recognition and a higher backlog [4]. - Energy segment revenues surged 119.7% to $17.8 million, driven by strong performance in the PJM merchant market due to cold weather [4]. Operational Update - Total operating expenses were $24.6 million, up 1.6% from the previous year [5]. - Operating income declined 3.2% year over year to $50.9 million [5]. - Total cost of revenues increased by 7.9% year over year to $156.8 million [5]. - Net interest expenses rose 11.3% year over year to $34.5 million [5]. Financial Condition - As of March 31, 2025, cash and cash equivalents stood at $112.7 million, up from $94.4 million as of December 31, 2024 [6]. 2025 Guidance - The company reiterated its revenue guidance for 2025, expecting between $935 million and $975 million, with the Zacks Consensus Estimate at $953.6 million [7]. - Electricity segment revenues are anticipated in the range of $710 million to $725 million, product segment revenues between $172 million and $187 million, and energy storage segment revenues between $53 million and $63 million [8]. - Annual adjusted EBITDA is expected to be in the range of $563 million to $593 million [9].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - BKV reported a net loss of $79 million or a loss of $0.93 per diluted share for Q1 2025, while adjusted net income was $35 million or a positive $0.41 per diluted share [30] - Combined adjusted EBITDAX was just over $100 million, with $90 million from upstream operations and $10 million from the power segment [29] - Cash and cash equivalents at the end of Q1 were approximately $15 million, with net leverage standing at less than 0.7 times net debt to adjusted EBITDAX [32] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The upstream business produced 761 million cubic feet equivalent per day, exceeding guidance, with development CapEx at $48 million, 26% below the midpoint of guidance [15][16] - Power joint venture adjusted EBITDA was $20 million, with BKV's share at $10 million, driven by higher pricing due to cold weather [27] - The carbon capture business is on track with significant milestones, including a partnership with Comstock Resources and a $500 million investment commitment from Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners [11][12] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - ERCOT revised its 2031 load forecast higher by 68 gigawatts, a 45% increase from 2024 projections, primarily driven by data centers [26] - The demand for low carbon gas is expected to grow, supported by decarbonization efforts and the increasing need for power driven by cloud computing and AI [4][5] Company Strategy and Development Direction - BKV is focused on vertical integration across its four business lines: upstream, midstream, carbon capture, and power generation, aiming to create premium margins and differentiated products [5] - The company is leveraging its position in the Barnett Shale, which has over 15 years of inventory and is strategically located near LNG export markets and data centers [8][15] - BKV aims to deliver decarbonized energy solutions and capitalize on the growing demand for carbon capture and storage [12][36] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the robustness of the 45Q tax credit and the bipartisan support for carbon capture initiatives [45] - Despite macroeconomic headwinds, BKV's proactive supply chain management is expected to minimize disruptions and cost impacts [5] - The company anticipates a ramp-up in production in the second half of 2025, with natural gas pricing remaining elevated [18] Other Important Information - BKV's CCUS strategy is validated by recent partnerships and project advancements, with a goal of achieving a 1 million ton per year CO2 injection rate by the end of 2027 [23][60] - The company has a disciplined capital investment framework, with expectations for total CapEx in Q2 2025 between $75 million and $100 million [31] Q&A Session Summary Question: Thoughts on the resiliency of the 45Q tax credit and momentum in CCUS projects - Management believes the 45Q tax credit is robust and enjoys bipartisan support, which is critical for energy competitiveness in the U.S. [45][46] - There is strong momentum in carbon capture, particularly in natural gas processing, with several projects in the pipeline [49] Question: Clarification on CapEx for CCUS and project timing - Management indicated that while the overall CapEx for CCUS remains robust, the timing may shift as they optimize capital spending with their JV partner [58][60] Question: Upstream production growth inclination - Management remains committed to disciplined capital investment, with a focus on commodity price ranges, and anticipates production growth in the latter half of 2025 [65][66] Question: Details on the Comstock partnership and project development - Management explained that the partnership with Comstock will follow a phased approach, capturing CO2 from their plants as production grows [73] Question: Macroeconomic conditions affecting the power segment - Management highlighted inflation in construction costs and bullish sentiment for data center investments as key factors influencing the power business [75][77] Question: Funding mechanisms for the new JV with CIP - Management confirmed that there is an upfront capital component to the JV, which will be drawn down as projects are deployed over the next 12 to 24 months [84]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - BKV reported a net loss of $79 million or a loss of $0.93 per diluted share for Q1 2025, while adjusted net income was $35 million or a positive $0.41 per diluted share [30] - Combined adjusted EBITDAX was just over $100 million, with $90 million from upstream operations and $10 million from the power segment [29] - Accrued capital expenditures for the quarter were $58 million, significantly below the low end of the guidance range of $75 million [30] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The upstream business produced 761 million cubic feet equivalent per day, exceeding the midpoint of guidance [15] - Development capital expenditures for upstream were $48 million, 26% below the midpoint of the guided range [16] - Power joint venture adjusted EBITDA was $20 million, with BKV's share being $10 million, driven by higher pricing due to cold weather [27] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - ERCOT revised its 2031 load forecast higher by 68 gigawatts, a 45% increase from 2024 projections, primarily driven by data centers [26] - Power prices averaged $54.52 per megawatt hour, with an average realized spark spread of $25.39 per megawatt hour [28] Company Strategy and Development Direction - BKV is focused on vertical integration across its four business lines: upstream, midstream, carbon capture, and power generation, aiming to create premium margins [5] - The company is leveraging its position in the Barnett Shale, which has over 15 years of inventory and is geographically advantaged for natural gas supply [8] - BKV is actively pursuing partnerships to enhance its carbon capture business, including a significant investment from Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners [11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the robustness of the 45Q tax credit and the ongoing demand for low carbon gas amid global decarbonization efforts [4] - The company anticipates continued strong demand growth in the power sector, particularly in Texas, driven by data centers and industrial growth [9] - Despite macroeconomic headwinds, BKV's proactive supply chain management is expected to minimize disruptions and cost impacts [5] Other Important Information - BKV's CCUS strategy is gaining momentum, with multiple projects on track for CO2 injection in the coming years [20][21] - The company has a strong balance sheet with net leverage of less than 0.7 times net debt to adjusted EBITDAX [32] Q&A Session Summary Question: Thoughts on the resiliency of the 45Q tax credit and momentum behind CCUS projects - Management believes the 45Q tax credit is robust and enjoys bipartisan support, which is critical for energy competitiveness in the U.S. [45] - There is strong momentum in carbon capture, particularly for natural gas processing projects, with BKV positioned as a leader in this space [47] Question: Clarification on CapEx for CCUS and project timing - Management indicated that while the overall CapEx for CCUS remains robust, the timing may shift as they optimize capital spending with their JV partner [58] Question: Upstream production growth inclination - Management reiterated a disciplined approach to capital investment, with a commitment to 2% to 3% growth in production by Q4 2025 compared to Q4 2024 [66] Question: Details on the Comstock partnership and project development - Management explained that the partnership with Comstock will follow a phased approach, allowing BKV to grow with Comstock's production [75] Question: Insights on the power business and macroeconomic conditions - Management highlighted that inflation in construction costs could impact power prices, but there is a bullish outlook for data center investments in the U.S. [78]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - BKV reported a net loss of $79 million or a loss of $0.93 per diluted share for Q1 2025, while adjusted net income was $35 million or a positive $0.41 per diluted share after removing unrealized derivative losses [27] - Combined adjusted EBITDAX was just over $100 million, with $90 million from upstream operations and $10 million from the Power joint venture [26][30] - Accrued capital expenditures for the quarter were $58 million, significantly below the low end of the guidance range of $75 million [27] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The upstream business produced 761 million cubic feet equivalent per day, exceeding the midpoint of guidance, with development CapEx spending at $48 million, 26% below the midpoint of the guided range [13][14] - The Power joint venture's adjusted EBITDA was $20 million for the quarter, with BKV's implied 50% share being $10 million, driven by higher pricing due to cold weather [24] - The carbon capture business is on track with significant milestones, including a partnership with Comstock Resources and a $500 million investment commitment from Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners [10][11][20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - ERCOT revised its 2031 load forecast higher by 68 gigawatts, a 45% increase from 2024 projections, primarily driven by data centers [23] - Power prices averaged $54.52 per megawatt hour, with an average realized spark spread of $25.39 per megawatt hour [25] Company Strategy and Development Direction - BKV is focused on vertical integration across its four business lines: upstream, midstream, carbon capture, and power generation, aiming to create premium margins and differentiated products [5] - The company is leveraging its position in the Barnett Shale, which is experiencing a renaissance, to optimize capital expenditures and enhance operational efficiencies [12][13] - BKV aims to capitalize on the growing demand for decarbonized energy solutions, particularly in the context of data centers and the broader energy transition [11][20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the robustness of the 45Q tax credit and the bipartisan support for carbon capture initiatives, which are expected to drive growth in the CCUS sector [4][43] - The company anticipates continued strong demand for natural gas and power, particularly in Texas, driven by economic development and the expansion of data centers [8][23] - Management remains cautious about macroeconomic headwinds, including inflation and potential tariffs, but believes in the resilience of its business model [5][30] Other Important Information - BKV's cash and cash equivalents at the end of Q1 were approximately $15 million, with a net leverage ratio of less than 0.7 times [28] - The company has a strong balance sheet and increased its borrowing base to $850 million, reflecting confidence in its financial position [29] Q&A Session Summary Question: Thoughts on the resiliency of the 45Q tax credit and momentum behind CCUS projects - Management believes the 45Q tax credit is robust and enjoys bipartisan support, which is critical for energy competitiveness in the U.S. [43][44] - There is strong momentum in carbon capture, particularly for natural gas processing projects, with BKV positioned as a leader in this space [45][46] Question: CapEx for CCUS and potential changes - Management indicated that while the internal CapEx for CCUS remains unchanged, the timing may shift as they optimize capital spending with their new JV partner [54][55] Question: Upstream production growth inclination - Management reiterated a disciplined approach to capital investment, with a commitment to 2% to 3% growth in production by Q4 2025 compared to Q4 2024, while monitoring macroeconomic conditions [60][62] Question: Differences in project timing with Comstock - Management explained that the development of projects with Comstock will follow a phased approach, allowing for growth as Comstock increases production [68][70] Question: Funding mechanisms for the new JV with CIP - Management confirmed that there is an upfront capital component associated with the JV, which will be drawn down over the next 12 to 24 months as projects are deployed [82][83] Question: Willingness to pay a premium for decarbonized power and gas - Management noted that while not all customers are willing to pay a premium, there is a segment, particularly large tech companies, that are very interested in decarbonized energy solutions [85][86]

Business Strategy and Operations - BKV is the largest producer in the Barnett and a top 5 gas producer in Texas, with approximately 13 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) of production from other smaller operators in the play[15] - BKV has a highly contiguous position with opportunities for growth in acreage[18] - BKV has taken an early lead in the Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) space[21] - BKV has a strategic joint venture with Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) for CCUS projects, with CIP covering 100% of JV expenses until their contributions equal 49% of the total value[27, 33] - BKV manages and consolidates the JV, initially receiving pro-rata distributions, which increase to 60% after CIP achieves minimum return targets[33] Power and Market Position - BKV-BPP Power Joint Venture supplies power to the ERCOT market[35] - The ERCOT (Texas) market has a power capacity of 6,082 MW[38, 99] - BKV has a 2.5 MWac solar facility jointly owned through a JV with Banpu Power US[92] - ERCOT forecasts substantial demand growth, with a projected increase of +67% for Oil and Gas and +132% for Industrial/Hydrogen from 2025 to 2031[97] Financial Performance - The company's financial highlights for the first quarter of 2025 include $689.8 million in revenue and $653.6 million in adjusted EBITDAX[105] - The company's financial strategy focuses on disciplined growth and shareholder returns[107] - The company's Barnett development has an average 1st Year Decline of 45% for New Drill D&C and 58% for Refracs[53]

Core Points - TC Energy Corporation held its 2025 annual meeting of shareholders where 13 nominees were elected as directors, with voting results showing a high level of support for each nominee [1] Group 1: Election Results - Scott Bonham received 677,017,619 votes (99.84% for, 0.16% against) [1] - Cheryl F. Campbell received 673,225,982 votes (99.28% for, 0.72% against) [1] - Michael R. Culbert received 673,422,055 votes (99.31% for, 0.69% against) [1] - William D. Johnson received 665,190,544 votes (98.10% for, 1.90% against) [1] - Susan C. Jones received 673,349,772 votes (99.30% for, 0.70% against) [1] - John E. Lowe received 663,231,215 votes (97.81% for, 2.19% against) [1] - Dawn Madahbee Leach received 677,045,840 votes (99.85% for, 0.15% against) [1] - François L. Poirier received 673,662,897 votes (99.35% for, 0.65% against) [1] - Una Power received 666,886,403 votes (98.35% for, 1.65% against) [1] - Mary Pat Salomone received 669,245,147 votes (98.70% for, 1.30% against) [1] - Siim A. Vanaselja received 665,004,883 votes (98.07% for, 1.93% against) [1] - Thierry Vandal received 668,886,158 votes (98.64% for, 1.36% against) [1] - Dheeraj "D" Verma received 671,156,491 votes (98.98% for, 1.02% against) [1] Group 2: Company Overview - TC Energy operates a unique network of natural gas infrastructure assets, providing energy solutions across North America and globally through LNG exports [2] - The company employs over 6,500 energy professionals dedicated to connecting the world to necessary energy resources [2] - TC Energy's common shares are traded on both the Toronto (TSX) and New York (NYSE) stock exchanges under the symbol TRP [3]

Core Viewpoint - Cheniere Energy is conducting its first quarter 2025 earnings conference call, highlighting its financial performance and strategic direction for the upcoming period [1][3]. Company Participants - The conference call features key executives including Jack Fusco (President and CEO), Anatol Feygin (EVP and Chief Commercial Officer), and Zach Davis (EVP and CFO) [1][3]. Conference Call Structure - The call is structured to include a presentation followed by a Q&A session, with a reminder that forward-looking statements may be included, which could differ from actual results [4][5]. Financial Measures - The discussion may reference non-GAAP financial measures such as consolidated adjusted EBITDA and distributable cash flow, with reconciliations provided in the presentation appendix [5].

Core Insights - The potential changes in sanctions on Russian gas could significantly impact U.S. LNG investments, with a possible effect on up to $120 billion and 29 MMtpa of future projects [1][4][5] Scenario Analysis - **Current Trend Scenario**: U.S. LNG liquefaction project final investment decisions (FIDs) are projected at 33.7 MMtpa, with a direct expenditure of $138 billion from 2025 to 2040 [7] - **Opening the Taps Scenario**: If sanctions on Russian gas are lifted, U.S. LNG FIDs would drop to 16.5 MMtpa, leading to a $67 billion investment reduction [8] - **Phasing Down Scenario**: This scenario anticipates U.S. LNG FIDs increasing to 45.5 MMtpa, resulting in a direct expenditure of $186 billion from 2025 to 2040 [9] Investment Implications - The "Opening the Taps" scenario could curtail over 17 MMtpa in new U.S. LNG projects, equating to a $70 billion investment loss compared to the "Current Trend" scenario [2][4] - Conversely, the "Phasing Down" scenario could enable an additional 12 MMtpa in U.S. LNG projects, representing an extra $48 billion in investment [3][4] Market Dynamics - U.S. LNG is positioned as a balancing supply in global markets, making it particularly sensitive to changes in price signals and market share due to shifts in Russian gas flows [5] - The study indicates that new LNG contracts are essential to address the growing European gas supply gap, driven by demand recovery and declining domestic production [7]

Core Insights - Cheniere Energy reported $5.44 billion in revenue for Q1 2025, a 28% year-over-year increase, exceeding the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $4.47 billion by 21.72% [1] - The company's EPS for the same period was $1.57, down from $2.13 a year ago, reflecting a surprise of -44.13% compared to the consensus estimate of $2.81 [1] Revenue Breakdown - LNG revenues were $5.31 billion, surpassing the average estimate of $4.29 billion by analysts, marking a 31.4% increase year-over-year [4] - Other revenues totaled $105 million, falling short of the $148.90 million average estimate, representing a 42.3% decline year-over-year [4] - Regasification revenues were $34 million, slightly above the estimated $33.37 million, with no change compared to the previous year [4] Stock Performance - Cheniere Energy's shares have returned +9.6% over the past month, while the Zacks S&P 500 composite increased by +11.3% [3] - The stock currently holds a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold), indicating expected performance in line with the broader market in the near term [3]