New Jersey Resources(US:NJR)2025-05-06 15:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Q2 2025, the company reported an NFEPS of $1.78 per share, an increase from $1.41 per share in the previous year, reflecting higher NFE at New Jersey Natural Gas due to increased utility gross margin from a recent base rate case settlement [21] - The fiscal 2025 NFEPS guidance was raised by $0.10 to a range of $3.15 to $3.3 per share, exceeding the long-term growth target of 7% to 9% [10][12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - New Jersey Natural Gas continues to show consistent customer growth, driven by new construction, system expansions, and steady conversions, with $254 million invested this year, 46% of which provides near real-time returns [14][16] - Clean Energy Ventures added 31 megawatts of solar capacity this fiscal year and has a project pipeline exceeding one gigawatt, with 60 megawatts currently under construction [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The storage and transportation segment reported improved performance, particularly at Leaf River, which is undergoing a capacity recovery project [21][19] - The company is exploring the development of a fourth cavern at Leaf River, with encouraging interest from a recent nonbinding open season [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company emphasizes disciplined capital deployment, operational excellence, and strategic innovation across all business segments to ensure long-term sustainable growth [9][10] - The focus remains on affordability and reliability, with ongoing investments in utility infrastructure and clean energy initiatives [9][15] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's positioning against macroeconomic factors, particularly tariffs, noting that most gas supply comes from domestic sources, minimizing exposure [26][28] - The company is well-prepared for potential market dislocations, with a strong balance sheet and liquidity, and does not rely on equity issuances to fund its capital plan [28][29] Other Important Information - The company plans capital expenditures between $1.3 billion and $1.6 billion for fiscal 2025 and 2026, aligning with long-term growth targets [22][23] - The adjusted funds from operations to adjusted debt ratio is projected to be between 19% and 21% for fiscal 2025, maintaining a strong investment-grade credit rating [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: Timing and capital requirements for Leaf River expansion - Management indicated that the total capital costs for the Leaf River expansion are estimated between $175 million and $200 million, with no finite timeline set for advancing the project [33] Question: Cost exposure to tariffs for Clean Energy Ventures - Management acknowledged the fluid situation regarding tariffs but emphasized that existing contractual protections should mitigate risks [36][38] Question: Expected economics of Leaf River compared to existing caverns - Management stated that the decision to build would depend on securing appropriate returns and contracts, with a focus on ensuring safety factors in the investment [46] Question: Regulatory environment and affordability initiatives - Management expressed confidence in the regulatory landscape following the completion of a recent rate case, emphasizing ongoing efforts to maintain affordability for customers [49][51] Question: Customer growth fundamentals - Management highlighted that customer growth is driven by a predominantly residential service territory with attractive demographics, and ongoing energy efficiency programs are helping to save customers money [60][61]