DT Midstream(DTM) - 2024 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported adjusted EBITDA of $969 million for 2024, a record high and a 5$235 million, with the pipeline segment performing in line with the prior quarter [24][25] - The company expects adjusted EBITDA for 2025 to range from $1.95 billion to$2.155 billion, representing an 18% growth from the original 2024 guidance [27][28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The pipeline segment experienced a 7% year-over-year growth, driven by new LEAP expansions and higher storage revenue [24][28] - The gathering segment saw a decrease of $6 million compared to the prior quarter due to production deferrals and an unplanned outage from a key producer [25][26] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted that cold weather has rebalanced the North American natural gas market, leading to strengthened prices and record high withdrawals from storage facilities [17][18] - The Haynesville system is expected to see LNG demand grow by 12 Bcf per day over the next decade, with basin supply increasing similarly [19][20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on organic growth projects and has increased its project backlog to approximately$2.3 billion, which includes high-probability organic growth opportunities [15][28] - The company aims to maintain a long-term organic growth rate of 5% to 7%, with pipeline projects comprising about 70% of the total opportunity set [15][28] - The company is well-positioned to capitalize on utility-scale power generation demand, with two new projects announced to serve this market [12][13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in delivering on full-year guidance for 2025 and early outlook for 2026, citing positive market fundamentals supporting the pipeline business [33] - The company anticipates a more constructive pricing environment in 2025, which is expected to enhance commercial project opportunities [12][18] Other Important Information - The company was upgraded to investment grade by Fitch in October 2024 and expects further upgrades from other rating agencies in 2025 [10][30] - A quarterly dividend increase to $0.82 per share was declared, representing a 12% increase, supported by higher adjusted EBITDA following the Midwest pipeline acquisition [29][30] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on new projects and their nature - Management confirmed that the two announced projects are utility-scale and in addition to previously discussed behind-the-meter opportunities [40][41] Question: Expected returns and economic terms for the backlog - Management indicated expected returns on projects are in the range of five to eight times multiple, consistent with previous disclosures [50][51] Question: Production recovery outlook - Management expects Haynesville volumes to ramp up throughout the year, while Appalachia volumes are anticipated to remain flat [54][56] Question: Capital plan and backlog expansion - Management expressed optimism about the backlog and indicated that the acquisition from One Oak has provided more opportunities than initially expected [62][63] Question: Update on CCS and regulatory progress - Management noted ongoing CCS discussions with developers and highlighted that the application requirements for the project have been finalized [82][106] Question: Market share growth in Haynesville - Management remains confident in their ability to grow market share in the Haynesville region, citing strong demand and infrastructure discussions [75][78]