Berry (bry)(US:BRY)2025-05-08 16:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Berry Corporation reported first quarter oil and gas sales of $148 million, with a realized oil price at 93% of Brent [18] - Adjusted EBITDA for the first quarter was $68 million, and operating cash flow was $46 million [18] - The company generated $7 million in free cash flow after working capital changes [18] - Total debt at the end of the quarter was $439 million, with a leverage ratio improved to 1.37 times [21] - Liquidity increased to $120 million, and the company paid down $11 million of debt during the quarter [21] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In California, production averaged 24,700 barrels per day, slightly below the prior quarter due to planned downtime [8] - The company drilled twice as many wells in Q1 compared to Q4 of the previous year [8] - The thermal diatomite projects are expected to generate rates of return exceeding 100% [9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Approximately 73% of oil production is hedged at $75 per barrel for the remainder of the year [6] - The average floor price for hedged production was raised by $6 per barrel for 2,300 barrels per day in 2026 and 2027 [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Berry Corporation aims to generate sustainable free cash flow, reduce debt, and return dividends while investing in high-return development projects [12][23] - The company is focused on executing its 2025 development projects and building inventory for 2026 [6][16] - The management emphasized the importance of navigating the regulatory environment in California as a competitive advantage [16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating current market volatility and reaffirmed full-year guidance [5] - The company highlighted a strong hedge position that protects cash flow [6] - Management noted a constructive shift in California's regulatory environment, which could facilitate increased in-state production [15] Other Important Information - Berry Corporation reported zero recordable incidents and zero lost time incidents during the first quarter, reflecting a commitment to safety and environmental standards [14] - The company plans to publish a comprehensive report on its performance metrics and emissions data in the summer [14] Q&A Session Summary Question: Scalability of the thermal diatomite program - Management indicated significant running room in the thermal diatomite program, with about 25 categorized as PUDs and additional future locations for drilling [27][28] Question: Initial production potential in Uinta - Management shared that the four well pad in the Uinta Basin was drilled ahead of schedule, with fracking operations expected to commence in June and initial production anticipated in August [30][32] Question: Navigating the regulatory environment in California - Management attributed their success in growing California production to their experienced teams and innovative strategies, particularly in sidetrack drilling [36][38] Question: Timeline for production data from Uinta - Management clarified that production from the newly drilled wells is expected to begin in late July, with significant production numbers anticipated in August [41]