NiSource(US:NI)2025-08-06 16:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - NiSource reported second quarter adjusted EPS of $0.22, bringing the year-to-date total to $1.19, which is an increase of $0.13 from the same period last year [6][24] - The company narrowed its 2025 adjusted EPS guidance to the upper half of the previously stated range of $1.85 to $1.89 [7][25] - The company reaffirmed long-term financial commitments, projecting 6% to 8% annual adjusted EPS growth and 8% to 10% rate base growth through 2029 [25][30] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Strong performance was noted in both the NIPSCO and Columbia segments, which continue to outperform expectations [24] - The operational excellence initiatives, including Project Apollo and WAM, have enabled consistent and high-quality results across the business [25] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Customer growth was observed at nearly 1% in the electric business and 0.6% in the gas business, both surpassing forecasts [26] - Metro growth in Columbus, Ohio was reported to be 38% higher than the national average last year, indicating strong economic tailwinds [26] Company Strategy and Development Direction - NiSource's strategy focuses on disciplined capital deployment, operational excellence, and fostering constructive regulatory relationships [5][6] - The company is advancing its internal AI capabilities to enhance operational efficiency and create a sustainable competitive edge [7][8] - Regulatory achievements include a $40.7 million revenue increase in Virginia and a $257 million revenue uplift in Indiana, reinforcing stakeholder relationships [11][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the demand for data centers in Northern Indiana and emphasized a disciplined approach to executing this opportunity [34][35] - The company remains focused on maximizing opportunities for stakeholders, including existing customers and communities, while maintaining financial integrity [35][16] Other Important Information - NiSource's five-year capital plan is valued at $19.4 billion, with 48% allocated to gas system hardening [22] - The company is actively engaging in commercial development of over $2 billion in identified upside projects [23] Q&A Session Summary Question: How is NiSource thinking about the data center opportunity in NIPSCO territory? - Management highlighted strong demand for data centers and emphasized a disciplined approach to execution, ensuring existing customers are protected while serving new ones [34][35] Question: How do the Genco application and counterparty negotiations relate to each other? - Management clarified that the Genco declination process and counterparty negotiations are separate but ongoing, with confidence in achieving a positive outcome [39][40] Question: What is the status of coal plant retirements and their impact on supply? - Management confirmed plans to retire the Schaeffer plant by the end of the year while working closely with state officials to align on capacity needs [58][59] Question: How does the financing strategy relate to the Genco structure? - Management indicated flexibility in financing strategies and emphasized the importance of strengthening the balance sheet to support future operations [62][64] Question: What is the timeline for the Genco declination process? - Management confirmed that all final filings are due soon, with an order expected by the end of the third quarter [78]