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Eversource(ES) - 2025 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript
EversourceEversource(US:ES)2025-08-01 14:00

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Eversource reported second quarter earnings of $0.96 per share, slightly up from $0.95 per share in the previous year, indicating solid earnings growth [22][24] - The company reaffirmed its 2025 EPS guidance range of $4.67 to $4.82 per share, with a long-term EPS growth projection of 5% to 7% through 2029 [7][33] - The FFO to debt ratio improved to 11.5% as of the first quarter, with expectations to reach approximately 14% by year-end [29][40] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Transmission earnings increased to $0.02 per share due to higher revenues from continued investments and lower interest expenses [22][23] - Electric distribution earnings also rose to $0.02 per share, benefiting from rate increases in New Hampshire and Massachusetts [23] - Natural gas segment earnings improved by $0.02 per share, primarily due to base distribution rate increases [23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Electric demand is expected to rise, with load growth through 2025 exceeding 2%, nearly double the rate observed last year [6] - The company noted that the accelerating electrification of transportation and heating sectors is driving this upward trend [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Eversource is focused on being a pure play regulated utility, with a commitment to infrastructure modernization and renewable energy integration [5][15] - The company announced a 10% increase in its five-year infrastructure investment plan, now totaling $24.2 billion [6][28] - The company is also working on strategic upgrades and new developments to meet rising electric demand [6] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the regulatory environment, particularly in Connecticut, following the passage of Senate Bill 4, which aims to make electric bills more affordable [11][12] - The company is optimistic about the ongoing recovery of storm costs and the potential for cash flow stabilization through regulatory changes [30][31] - Management emphasized the importance of maintaining strong relationships with union partners and stakeholders [14] Other Important Information - Eversource's annual sustainability report highlights innovative projects, including a geothermal pilot and the Cambridge Underground Substation [10][17] - The company is progressing well with the Aquarion divestiture process and expects to close the sale by the end of the year [12][98] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you walk us through the confidence levels in hitting the 14% FFO to debt level by year-end? - Management expressed high confidence, citing recovery of deferrals and the impact of the Aquarion transaction as key drivers [38][40] Question: How could the securitization of storm costs impact long-term FFO to debt levels? - Management indicated that securitization could reduce equity needs, but further clarity on timing is needed [41][43] Question: What are the updated metrics for Moody's and S&P regarding FFO to debt? - Management confirmed strong positions with both agencies, expecting continued improvement [49][50] Question: What are the implications of the Connecticut Court's clarification around prudency standards? - Management noted that the ruling supports investment decisions made based on current facts, preventing retrospective scrutiny [104][106] Question: Will there be additional equity needs in 2025? - Management clarified that while there may not be significant equity needs this year, they will monitor the situation closely [114][116]