Fortis(US:FTS)2025-08-01 13:32Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported second quarter earnings per share (EPS) of $0.76, a $0.09 increase compared to the same period last year [5][13] - Year-to-date EPS was $1.76, reflecting a $0.16 increase over the same period last year [13] - Net earnings for the quarter were $384 million [13] - Capital expenditures for the first half of the year were nearly $3 billion [5][7] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Central Hudson contributed a $0.04 increase in EPS, driven by rate-based growth and a higher allowed return on equity (ROE) effective July 1, 2024 [14] - EPS at UNS Energy remained unchanged from the previous year, with increased transmission revenue offset by regulatory lag [14] - Western Canadian Utilities saw a $0.30 increase in EPS, primarily due to rate base growth [14] - EPS for Fortis Alberta was tempered by the expiration of a PVR efficiency mechanism and a lower allowed ROE of 8.97% effective January 1, 2025 [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Tucson Electric Power (TEP) filed a general rate application seeking new retail rates effective September 1, 2026, with a proposed rate base of $4.3 billion, an increase of approximately $750 million since the last rate case [20][21] - The company achieved a 34% reduction in Scope 1 greenhouse gas emissions compared to 2019 levels through 2024 [6] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on delivering safe and reliable energy while advancing its growth strategy, with a projected rate base increase of approximately $14 billion to $53 billion by 2029, supporting average annual growth of 6.5% [7][8] - The company plans to convert approximately 800 megawatts of coal-fired generation at the Springerville generating station to natural gas by 2030, aiming to be coal-free by 2032 [9][10] - The company remains committed to annual dividend growth guidance of 4% to 6% through 2029 [12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in strong results for the first half of the year and progress on regulatory fronts, positioning the company well for the remainder of 2025 and beyond [23] - The company is preparing for its next integrated resource plan in Arizona, which will address changing load curves and resource needs [62] Other Important Information - Fitch assigned Fortis a first-time BBB+ credit rating, enhancing its credit profile and supporting cost-effective capital market funding options [19] - The company is pursuing various opportunities to support load growth and improve grid resilience [11] Q&A Session Summary Question: Regarding data center opportunity in Arizona - Management confirmed that the first 300 megawatts will utilize existing and planned capacity, with the second 300 megawatts expected to be in service by 2030 to 2031 [26][28] Question: Upside potential in Arizona and ITC - Management acknowledged significant upside potential in Arizona and ITC, with ongoing opportunities across the entire portfolio [29][30] Question: Springerville conversion costs - Management indicated that the costs of conversion are being evaluated in the context of the integrated resource plan, emphasizing affordability for customers [34][35] Question: Gas infrastructure outlook in BC - Management noted positive developments in LNG opportunities and ongoing regulatory processes for gas connections in BC [40][41] Question: Impact of recent legislation on Fortis - Management stated that while there are limited short-term impacts from recent legislation, longer-term implications on renewable energy and storage development will be assessed [50][54] Question: Need for interstate pipeline capacity into Arizona - Management confirmed discussions regarding gas supply for the Springerville repowering project, indicating a growing need for infrastructure in the long term [60][62]