Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a net income of $403 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2026, translating to $2.44 per diluted share, which is a 9.4% increase compared to the prior year quarter [4][10] - Capital expenditures for the first quarter totaled $1 billion, with over 85% focused on enhancing safety and reliability [4][5] - The rebased fiscal 2026 earnings per share guidance is set in the range of $8.15-$8.35 per share [4][14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Atmos Pipeline-Texas division completed significant projects, including the installation of approximately 55 miles of pipeline and enhancements to the Bethel Salt Dome storage facility [5][6] - Rate increases across operating segments contributed an additional $68 million to operating income [10] - APT's through system revenues, net of Rider REV, increased by about $7 million, although through system volumes declined by approximately 2 Bcf due to maintenance [10][11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company added nearly 54,000 new customers over the 12 months ending December 31, 2025, with 42,000 in Texas [7] - Customer satisfaction ratings reached 98% for the quarter, and Atmos Energy was recognized for customer satisfaction in the South and Midwest regions [8][9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company continues to focus on system modernization and safety, aiming to be the safest provider of natural gas services [3] - The strategy includes significant capital investments, with a planned capital spending of $4.2 billion for fiscal 2026 [14] - The company is actively engaging in regulatory discussions regarding affordability and reliability, emphasizing the importance of investments for system performance [32] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving the rebased earnings guidance and highlighted the positive impact of recent projects and customer growth [10][14] - The company noted that the recent Winter Storm Fern had minimal impact on supply and operational performance compared to previous storms [24] Other Important Information - The company has $4.6 billion in available liquidity, including $1.1 billion in net proceeds from existing forward sale agreements [13][14] - The company is pursuing additional regulatory filings for annualized operating income increases, seeking approximately $400 million [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Discussion on the $35 million benefit for the quarter - Management indicated that the benefit will be influenced by spending timing and operational activities, maintaining guidance of $8.15-$8.35 per share [16][17] Question: Financial impacts from Winter Storm Fern - Management stated that the storm's impact was not as significant as previous storms, with minimal supply issues and effective gas supply plans in place [23][24] Question: Affordability pressures in regulatory proceedings - Management confirmed that affordability is a continuous topic with regulators, who understand the need for investment to maintain reliability [31][32] Question: Opportunities in gas power and storage - Management noted ongoing inquiries for large loads and power generation, with evaluations for potential gas storage needs post-winter [55][56] Question: Impact of recent political changes in Texas - Management emphasized an apolitical stance, focusing on collaboration with all stakeholders to promote the importance of natural gas [38][39] Question: Mississippi rate case outcomes - Management indicated that the plan remains unchanged, focusing on safety and reliability investments regardless of regulatory outcomes [40][41]

Atmos Energy (NYSE:ATO) Q1 2026 Earnings call February 04, 2026 09:00 AM ET Speaker7Thank you. I would now like to turn the call over to Dan Meziere, Vice President of Investor Relations and Treasurer. You may begin.Speaker1Thank you, Jeannie. Good morning, everyone, and thank you for joining us. With me today are Kevin Akers, President and Chief Executive Officer, and Chris Forsythe, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Our earnings release and conference call slide presentation, which we wil ...

Core Viewpoint - Northwest Natural Holding Company has declared a quarterly dividend of 49.25 cents per share, with an annual dividend rate of $1.97 per share, reflecting its commitment to returning value to shareholders [1]. Group 1: Company Overview - Northwest Natural Holding Company is headquartered in Portland, Oregon, and has been in operation for over 167 years, owning several subsidiaries including NW Natural Gas Company, SiEnergy Operating, NW Natural Water Company, and NW Natural Renewables [1]. - The company provides critical energy and essential water and wastewater services to over one million meters across seven states, emphasizing safety, environmental stewardship, and community care [2]. Group 2: Utility Services - NW Natural Gas Utility serves approximately 2 million people in over 140 communities through about 806,000 meters in Oregon and Southwest Washington, boasting one of the most modern pipeline systems in the nation and 21.6 Bcf of underground gas storage capacity [3]. - SiEnergy Gas Utility is one of the fastest-growing natural gas distribution utilities in the U.S., serving around 87,000 meters in the metropolitan areas of Houston, Dallas, and Austin, Texas [4]. - NWN Water Utility provides water distribution and wastewater services to communities in the Pacific Northwest, Texas, Arizona, and California, serving an estimated 197,000 people through approximately 79,000 meters and managing an additional 38,000 connections [5]. Group 3: Commitment to Ethics and Customer Satisfaction - NW Natural Holdings has been recognized by Ethisphere® as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies® for four consecutive years, highlighting its commitment to ethical business practices [2]. - The company consistently achieves high customer satisfaction scores as reported by J.D. Power & Associates, indicating strong performance in customer service [2].

Core Viewpoint - Black Hills Corp. has received approval for new natural gas rates in Nebraska, which will support the recovery of over $453 million in system investments and operational costs, benefiting over 304,000 customers [1][2]. Financial Impact - The new rates will generate approximately $23.9 million in new annual revenues and will migrate about $18.5 million in annual rider revenue to base rates, resulting in a total annual base rate revenue increase of $42.4 million [2]. - The rates are based on a return on equity of 9.85% and a capitalization structure of 50.5% equity and 49.5% debt [2]. Implementation Details - The new rates will take effect on January 1, 2026, replacing interim rates that have been in place since August 1, 2025 [2]. - The approved settlement includes a five-year System Safety and Integrity Rider for accelerated pipeline replacement, a new insurance tracker, a manufactured gas plant tracker, and a weather normalization pilot program [3]. Company Overview - Black Hills Corp. is a growth-oriented utility company serving 1.35 million natural gas and electric utility customers across eight states, including Nebraska [4].

Core Viewpoint - Black Hills Corp. has filed a rate review application with the Arkansas Public Service Commission, seeking $29.4 million in new annual revenue to cover capital infrastructure and operational costs for its natural gas utility serving over 189,000 customers in Arkansas [1][2]. Summary by Sections Rate Review Application - The company is requesting $29.4 million in new annual revenue to recover necessary costs for safe and reliable natural gas service [1]. - This request is based on a capital structure of 50.2% equity and 49.8% debt, with a targeted return on equity of 10.5% [3]. Infrastructure Investments - Black Hills Corp. aims to recover approximately $147 million invested in safety, reliability, and system integrity for its natural gas pipeline infrastructure since the last general rate filing in 2023 [2]. - These investments are essential for system growth and compliance with state and federal regulations [2]. Company Overview - Black Hills Corp. serves 1.35 million natural gas and electric utility customers across eight states, including Arkansas, Colorado, and South Dakota [4]. - The company emphasizes its commitment to providing safe and reliable natural gas service while supporting growth through critical infrastructure investments and prudent cost management [3].

Core Viewpoint - New Jersey Resources (NJR) is positioned as a strong investment option in the Zacks Utility Gas Distribution industry due to its infrastructure investments and growing customer base [1] NJR's Growth Outlook & Surprise History - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for fiscal 2025 earnings per share (EPS) has increased by 1.9% to $3.28 over the past 60 days [2] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for fiscal 2025 sales is projected at $1.98 billion, indicating a year-over-year increase of 10% [2] - NJR has consistently surpassed expectations in the last four reported quarters, achieving an average earnings surprise of 54.96% [2] NJR's Return on Equity - NJR's return on equity (ROE) stands at 17.08%, significantly higher than the industry average of 9.08%, demonstrating effective fund utilization [3][9] NJR's Strategic Spending & Service Reach - NJR plans to invest between $650 million and $770 million in capital expenditures for fiscal 2025, and between $655 million and $835 million for fiscal 2026 to enhance infrastructure [4][9] - As of June 30, 2025, NJR provided services to approximately 588,300 customers, an increase from about 583,000 customers as of September 30, 2024 [5] NJR's Return to Shareholders - NJR has a history of increasing shareholder value through regular dividend payments, having paid quarterly dividends since 1952 and raised dividends for 30 consecutive years [6] - On September 10, 2025, NJR's board authorized a quarterly dividend increase to 47.5 cents per share from 45 cents, marking a 5.6% increase and bringing the annualized dividend to $1.90 [7] Overview of NJR's Debt Structure - NJR's total debt to capital ratio is 58.26%, which is better than the sector's average of 59.64% [10] - The time-to-interest earned ratio at the end of the fiscal third quarter of 2025 was 5, indicating the company's strong ability to meet future interest obligations [10] NJR Stock Price Performance - Over the past month, NJR shares have increased by 2.1%, outperforming the sector's growth of 0.1% [11]

Core Viewpoint - ONE Gas, Inc. (OGS) is positioned as a strong investment option in the utility sector due to its 100% regulated operations, customer base expansion, and strategic investments aimed at improving infrastructure and service efficiency [1] Group 1: Growth Projections - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for OGS's 2025 earnings per share (EPS) has risen by nearly 1.2% over the past 90 days to $4.32 [2] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 sales is projected at $2.43 billion, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 16.6% [2] - OGS's long-term earnings growth rate is estimated at 5.56% over the next three to five years [2] Group 2: Dividend History - OGS plans to reward shareholders with an average annual dividend increase of 1-2% through 2029, contingent on board approval [3] - The current quarterly dividend stands at 67 cents per share, leading to an annualized dividend of $2.68 [3] - OGS's current dividend yield is 3.57%, significantly higher than the Zacks S&P 500 composite's yield of 1.16% [3] Group 3: Debt Position - OGS's total debt to capital ratio is 40.44%, which is better than the industry average of 51.09% [4] - The time-to-interest earned ratio at the end of Q2 2025 was 3, indicating the company's strong ability to meet future interest obligations [4] Group 4: Systematic Investments & Customer Growth - OGS's capital investment for 2025, including asset removal costs, is expected to be $750 million, with nearly $180 million allocated for customer extensions [5][8] - The ongoing capital expenditures focus on pipeline integrity, service extensions, system capacity increases, and cybersecurity [5] - Since 2015, OGS has consistently increased its customer base, with a 0.8% year-over-year growth in Q2 2025, serving 2,302,000 customers [6][8] - An average annual customer growth of 0.9% is anticipated through 2028 [6][8] Group 5: Price Performance - OGS's stock has increased by 4% over the past six months, outperforming the industry's growth of 2.2% [7]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The trailing twelve-month return on equity (ROE) increased to 8.3% from 8% in the previous two years [7] - Full year net income guidance is reaffirmed at $265 million to $275 million [9][40] - The utility reported record net income for 2025 with modest increases in operating and maintenance (O&M) expenses compared to the previous year [9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The utility segment saw higher margins supported by rate relief and continued customer growth, with a $26.6 million increase in utility operating margin [28][30] - O&M expenses increased by $7 million, primarily due to higher labor and benefit costs [31] - Other income increased by $3.6 million, driven by gains from COLI policies and a one-time nonoperating gain [32] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Approximately 40,000 new meter sets were added over the last twelve months, indicating robust growth in the utility's service area [14][26] - The Great Basin expansion project received significant interest, with potential capacity requests estimated at 1.76 billion cubic feet per day [15][17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to position itself as a premier pure play, fully regulated natural gas business, focusing on operational and financial performance improvements [6] - The regulatory strategy includes pursuing alternative ratemaking in Nevada, which is expected to reduce regulatory lag and support price stability [7][22] - The company plans to invest approximately $4.3 billion over the next five years to support safety, reliability, and economic development [26][27] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the regulatory strategy and the positive economic outlook in service areas, which supports growth [40] - The company is optimistic about the impacts of the new legislation in Nevada and the completion of the Arizona rate case [20][21] - Management highlighted the importance of maintaining a strong balance sheet to support capital investments and stockholder value [13][38] Other Important Information - The company successfully executed two secondary public offerings of Century shares, generating over $470 million in net proceeds used to repay debt [10][34] - The company no longer expects to issue new equity under its ATM program in 2025 [13][35] - The balance sheet remains strong, with over $350 million in cash and more than $1 billion in liquidity [14][38] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on Great Basin expansion and return profile - Management confirmed that the increase in the project cost range is purely volume-driven from additional shipper requests for capacity [45][46] Question: Timeline for Nevada rate case and alternative rate making - Management indicated that the Nevada rate case and the new legislation could work complementarily, and they do not see an advantage in delaying the next rate case [50][51] Question: Duration and cadence of Arizona rate case - Management is evaluating the timing of the next Arizona rate case and the potential for formula rates, considering ongoing rate cases in the state [60][61] Question: Clarification on COLI gains and interest savings - Management confirmed that the COLI gains contributed positively to the corporate segment, and interest savings from debt repayment will continue to benefit the company [64][65] Question: Confidence in Great Basin project and CPCN filing - Management expressed confidence in proceeding with the CPCN filing once sufficient precedent agreements are signed, indicating strong project viability [68][70]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported record net income for the first quarter of 2025, with a trailing twelve-month return on equity (ROE) of 8.2% [9][10] - The net income guidance for the full year is reaffirmed at $265 million to $275 million [35] - Operating margin increased by $38.9 million, driven by $27 million of combined rate relief and customer growth [27][30] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The utility segment benefited from rate relief in Nevada and Arizona, contributing to higher net income [25] - Approximately 40,000 new meter sets were added over the past twelve months, indicating strong customer growth [27][22] - Century's results improved due to higher volumes under master services agreements and lower interest expenses, although offshore wind project revenues decreased [26] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Economic activity and demand for natural gas service remain strong, particularly in Arizona and Nevada, with significant growth in sectors like advanced manufacturing and data centers [21][22] - The Arizona Commission opened a docket to address resource adequacy of natural gas infrastructure due to increased demand [22] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on becoming a premier fully regulated natural gas utility and is committed to separating Century to enhance shareholder value [10][11] - A capital investment plan of approximately $4.3 billion over the next five years is expected to support safety, reliability, and economic development [24] - The company aims to maintain a flat O&M cost per customer trend while achieving net income growth through regulatory strategies [35] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the regulatory strategy and the positive outcomes from recent rate cases in Arizona and Great Basin [10][18] - The company anticipates continued robust capital spending driven by safety, reliability, and economic activity in service territories [9][35] - Management noted that the successful execution of separation options for Century is contingent on favorable market conditions [12] Other Important Information - The company has over $400 million in cash on hand and more than $1 billion in liquidity, providing flexibility for capital investments [13] - The balance sheet remains strong, with a commitment to maintaining an investment-grade profile [33][34] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the current status of your plans to exit Century? - Management reiterated their commitment to the separation of Century and mentioned the ability to file an S-three to facilitate market execution [42] Question: What are the financial implications of the SIM if the settlement is approved? - Management indicated that clarity on timing and projects would come once the SIM is approved, which represents about 40% of non-revenue producing infrastructure investment [43] Question: Has there been any change to Southwest Gas' internal controls or accounting processes? - Management confirmed that there have been no changes in internal controls related to the recent accounting issue that caused a delay in the earnings call [46] Question: Can you speak to the incremental CapEx investment opportunities from the influx of data centers? - Management stated that current guidance does not include material changes due to new demand but will monitor and adjust as necessary [49] Question: Is the Great Basin open season binding? - Management confirmed that the open season is binding and will provide better indications of future CapEx changes once it closes [53]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported adjusted net income of $91.8 million or $2.28 per share for Q1 2025, compared to $63.8 million or $1.69 per share for the same period in 2024, reflecting strong results across all business segments [12][25][26] - The combined utility customer growth rate was 9.6% for the twelve months ended March 31, 2025, primarily driven by the acquisition of Sea Energy, which added approximately 73,000 gas meters in Texas [13][26] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Northwest Natural Gas Utility segment saw net income increase by $21.5 million or $0.42 per share, with margin increasing by $38.7 million due to new rates effective November 1, 2024 [26] - Sea Energy contributed net income of $5.5 million or $0.14 per share for Q1 2025, meeting expectations for the quarter [27] - The Northwest Natural Water segment's net income increased by $2.4 million or $0.06 per share, driven by new rates and additional revenues from acquisitions [28] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company expects to invest approximately $60 million in water utilities in 2025 to replace aging infrastructure and improve treatment facilities [21] - The company anticipates a quarterly profile for 2025 to be similar to previous years, with the majority of revenues generated in the first and fourth quarters during winter heating months [29] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on expanding its customer base and enhancing service reliability through strategic acquisitions, such as the recent acquisition of Hughes Gas Resources for $60 million [18][19] - The company plans to refresh rates at multiple water utilities in 2025, primarily related to recovering critical infrastructure investments [21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving full-year guidance, reaffirming annual adjusted earnings guidance in the range of $2.75 to $2.95 per share [29] - The company highlighted the importance of its gas distribution and storage infrastructure in the Pacific Northwest, emphasizing its role in providing reliable and cost-effective energy solutions [24] Other Important Information - The company has a liquidity of over $600 million as of March 31, 2025, with significant availability on lines of credit and cash on hand [32] - The company completed a $325 million junior subordinated debenture issuance to secure financing for the Sea Energy transaction [33] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the outlook for water utilities in 2025? - Management indicated that the increase in Q1 results is largely driven by rate case activity from last year, with expectations for continued growth and earnings contribution from Northwest Natural Water [36][37] Question: Is the Hughes acquisition similar to Sea Energy in terms of customer base? - Management confirmed that the Hughes acquisition primarily consists of residential and commercial customers, similar to Sea Energy, and provides geographic overlap for operational synergies [39][40]