Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is reaffirming its 2025 earnings guidance range of $4 to $4.2, representing a 5% growth rate at the midpoint over 2024 EPS [7][9] - Year-over-year earnings drivers for Q1 2025 included $0.29 per share of new margins, with $0.26 from new rates and rider recovery, and $0.03 from customer growth and usage [12][13] - O&M expenses increased by $0.24 per share, primarily due to higher employee costs, outside services, and insurance costs [13][14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has successfully implemented new rates through five rate reviews since early 2024, recovering over $1.3 billion in new system investments [5][6] - The data center demand is expected to contribute more than 10% of total EPS by 2028, with a forecast of approximately 500 megawatts of data center demand by the end of 2029 [11][19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is experiencing strong customer growth, with record peaks in demand, including a nearly 10% increase over the previous all-time peak in January 2024 [5][6] - The company’s multistate footprint provides valuable regulatory, weather, and customer diversification, supporting EPS stability and growth [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Key objectives for the year include achieving 5% year-over-year earnings growth, executing regulatory initiatives, and a $1 billion capital plan [4] - The company is strategically expanding its infrastructure to serve growing customer demands, particularly in data centers and blockchain operations [6][11] - The capital plan includes investing $4.7 billion over five years, prioritizing safety, system integrity, and infrastructure expansion [10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving the 2025 guidance and long-term EPS growth target of 4% to 6%, driven by strong customer demand and a robust pipeline of growth opportunities [9][28] - The company is well-positioned to mitigate risks and capitalize on opportunities due to favorable business and regulatory climates [6][9] Other Important Information - The company has a strong liquidity position with nearly $700 million available under its revolving credit facility [15] - The company has a history of 55 consecutive years of dividend payments, targeting a payout ratio of 55% to 65% [16] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the electric rate case and the request for rehearing? - Management confirmed an increase in new annual revenue of about half a million and is reviewing the decision for potential next steps [31][32] Question: What is the outlook for the franchise agreement in Pueblo? - The franchise agreement was voted to be kept in place, and management is focused on maintaining affordability and economic development in the area [34][36] Question: Can you elaborate on the equity raised this quarter? - The company raised approximately $46 million in equity, with plans to meet the $215 million to $235 million guidance for the year [38][40] Question: What is the status of wildfire mitigation efforts in Colorado and South Dakota? - Management anticipates similar outcomes in Colorado and South Dakota as seen in Wyoming, with ongoing legislative efforts [44][45] Question: Is there interest in capital light strategies in South Dakota? - There is significant interest from large customers in Colorado and South Dakota, and the tariff structure will be tailored to customer needs [52][53]