Black Hills (US:BKH)2025-05-08 16:02Financial 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 [9][10] - 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 [13][14] - O&M expenses increased by $0.24 per share, primarily due to higher employee costs, outside services, and insurance costs [15][16] 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 of new system investments [6][8] - The data center demand is expected to reach approximately 500 megawatts by the end of 2029, with EPS contribution from data centers projected to double to over 10% of total EPS in 2028 [12][21] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is experiencing strong customer growth, with new all-time customer peak loads in Wyoming Electric reflecting nearly a 10% increase over the previous peak [7][8] - The company is well-positioned to maximize growth opportunities due to favorable land prices, business climates, and a quality workforce [8][10] 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 [5][6] - The company is focusing on safety and system integrity projects, modernization programs, and infrastructure expansion to support growing demands [11][12] 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 a robust balance sheet and capital forecasts [10][11] - The company is optimistic about the impact of new legislation in Wyoming that provides liability protections related to wildfire mitigation [8][29] Other Important Information - The company plans to invest $4.7 billion over a five-year period through 2029, prioritizing safety and system integrity [11][12] - The company has a strong liquidity position with nearly $700 million available under its revolving credit facility [17][18] 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 [33][34][36] Question: What is the outlook for the franchise agreement in Pueblo? - Management noted that the franchise was retained through a vote and emphasized the importance of affordability and economic development in the area [37][39][40] Question: Can you elaborate on the timing of equity needs? - Management indicated that equity issuance is based on capital project timing and maintaining credit metrics, with expectations for lower annual equity needs in the future [42][45] Question: How are wildfire mitigation efforts progressing in Colorado and South Dakota? - Management anticipates similar outcomes in Colorado and South Dakota as seen in Wyoming, with ongoing legislative efforts [48][49] Question: Is there interest in capital light strategies in South Dakota? - Management confirmed ongoing interest from large customers in Colorado and South Dakota, with potential for customized tariffs based on customer needs [56][57]