USA pression Partners(US:USAC)2025-08-06 16:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a record-setting quarter for revenues and average revenue per horsepower, with average pricing reaching $21.31 per horsepower, a 1% increase sequentially and a 5% increase year-over-year [13][5] - Second quarter net income was $28.6 million, operating income was $76.6 million, and net cash provided by operating activities was $124.2 million [13][12] - Adjusted gross margins for the second quarter were 65.4%, with average utilization remaining consistent at 94.4% [13][14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The total fleet horsepower at the end of the quarter was approximately 3.9 million horsepower, unchanged from the prior quarter [14] - Average active horsepower remained flat at 3.55 million, while the company anticipates Q4 active horsepower to exceed 3.6 million, setting a new record [10][14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted significant growth in natural gas demand driven by AI and cloud services, with major tech firms expected to spend over $265 billion on infrastructure this year [6][7] - The July EIA short-term energy outlook projected a 6% annualized gas growth in the Permian, with natural gas production from the Northeast and Haynesville also expected to grow [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is optimistic about the future, citing a strong pipeline of RFQs and expected growth from top customers, who comprise over 45% of revenues [6][5] - The shared services model with Energy Transfer is expected to yield benefits, including licensing savings and enhanced IT functionality [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged bearish macroeconomic factors but expressed confidence in the company's execution and customer resolve to maintain production levels [5] - The company anticipates a meaningful increase in contracted horsepower in the Northeast and sees strong demand across various basins [38][5] Other Important Information - The company maintained its 2025 guidance for adjusted EBITDA in the range of $590 million to $610 million and distributable cash flow between $350 million and $370 million [15] - The company is exploring refinancing options for its September 2027 notes and expects to extend its ABL facility [16][41] Q&A Session Summary Question: Gross margin trends - Management indicated that gross margins have fluctuated between 65% to 67% over the past four years and expect them to align with historical averages as staffing improves [21][22] Question: Contracted horsepower in the Northeast - Approximately 25% to 30% of business in the Northeast is on month-to-month contracts, with expectations for better dollar per horsepower revenue in the future [24] Question: Update on sold or retired equipment - There were no material sales of equipment during the quarter, and utilization was flat, with expectations for increased active horsepower in Q4 [31][32] Question: G&A costs and shared services - G&A costs were lower due to shared services, but management cautioned against making long-term forecasts as they are still early in the process [33][34] Question: Demand for compression services - Demand is increasing across oil and gas producing basins, particularly in dry gas basins, with expectations for more contracting in the coming months [38] Question: Electric motor drive market - There has been a shift back to natural gas engine-driven compressors, with less focus on electric drive opportunities [40] Question: Capital allocation and distribution - The company aims to maintain its distribution while reducing leverage, with plans to refinance its ABL and potentially increase cash for business growth [41][42] Question: CapEx and new horsepower costs - The cost to acquire new horsepower has increased, but the company is still able to achieve necessary margins for new equipment [46][47]