Core Insights - Essential Utilities Inc. (WTRG) reported first-quarter 2025 operating earnings per share (EPS) of $1.03, exceeding the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 80 cents by 28.8% and showing a year-over-year improvement of 41.1% [1] - Total operating revenues reached $784 million, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $691 million by 13.3% and reflecting a year-over-year increase of 28.1% [2] - The regulated Water segment generated revenues of $300.8 million, a 7.5% increase from $279.9 million in the first quarter of 2024, driven by higher rates and surcharges [2] - The regulated Natural Gas segment reported revenues of $470.8 million, up from $324.3 million in the first quarter of 2024, primarily due to higher purchased gas costs and increased delivery volumes from colder weather [3] Financial Performance - Operating income totaled $338.9 million, marking a 46.9% year-over-year increase, while operation and maintenance expenses rose slightly by 0.7% to $137.8 million [4] - Interest expenses increased by 12% to $82.1 million from $73.3 million in the prior-year quarter [4] - Current assets were $494.5 million as of March 31, 2025, compared to $485.9 million as of December 31, 2024, while long-term debt rose to $7.52 billion from $7.36 billion [5] Future Outlook - The company reaffirmed its 2025 EPS guidance in the range of $2.07-$2.11, with the Zacks Consensus Estimate at $2.10, exceeding the midpoint of the projected range [6] - Management anticipates a 2-3% expansion in the customer base for the water segment through acquisitions and organic growth [6] - Essential Utilities plans to invest $1.4-$1.5 billion in infrastructure in 2025 and a total of $7.8 billion from 2025 to 2029 to enhance water and natural gas systems and improve customer service [7]

Essential Utilities (WTRG) Q1 2025 Earnings Call May 12, 2025 11:00 AM ET Company Participants Brian Dingerdissen - Vice President of Investor Relations & TreasurerChristopher Franklin - Chairman & CEOMichael Huwar - President of Peoples Natural GasDaniel Schuller - Executive VP & CFODurgesh Chopra - Managing Director Conference Call Participants None - AnalystTravis Miller - AnalystGregg Orrill - AnalystRyan Connors - Senior Managing Director and Research Analyst Operator Thank you for standing by, and wel ...