Sempra(SRE) - 2025 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported second quarter 2025 adjusted EPS of $0.89, consistent with the prior period's results [6][27] - Full year 2025 adjusted EPS guidance remains affirmed at $4.3 to $4.7, with 2026 EPS guidance of $4.8 to $5.3 [6] - Second quarter 2025 GAAP earnings were $461 million or $0.71 per share, compared to $713 million or $1.12 per share in the same quarter of 2024 [26] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Sempra California saw a $5 million increase primarily from higher regulatory awards and electric transmission margin, offset by lower CPUC base operating margin [28] - Sempra Texas reported $6 million of higher equity earnings due to increased invested capital and customer growth, despite higher operating and interest expenses [29] - Sempra Infrastructure experienced a $26 million increase in revenues, mainly from a contract modification and higher power volumes [29] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is focusing on regulatory compacts in Texas, with the recently passed House Bill 5247 expected to improve earned return on equity by 50 to 100 basis points over time [16][30] - The legislative environment in Texas is supportive of infrastructure expansion, which is critical for the company's growth strategy [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is transitioning towards a more utility-focused business model, with a capital plan targeting $13 billion in investments for 2025, primarily in U.S. Utilities [6][11] - The Fit for 2025 campaign aims to improve customer affordability by reducing internal costs and enhancing productivity [12] - The company is advancing its capital recycling initiatives and expects higher contributions from regulated utilities, improving overall credit and business risk profile [10][11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving solid financial performance for the year, with ongoing progress on value creation initiatives [27][30] - The company anticipates a notable increase in earnings contributions from regulated utilities, particularly in Texas, which is expected to enhance overall value [11][30] - Management highlighted the importance of legislative developments in Texas for future growth and profitability [16][30] Other Important Information - The company has made significant investments in operational excellence and safety measures, including wildfire mitigation efforts [13] - Sempra Infrastructure is advancing multiple construction projects, including ECA LNG Phase 1 and Port Arthur LNG Phase 1, which are expected to drive cash flow growth [21][23] Q&A Session Summary Question: Inquiry about KKR LOI and stake sales - Management indicated that the LOI with KKR contemplates an equity sale in the 15% to 30% range, with flexibility based on valuation [34][36] Question: Update on capital plan and execution confidence - Management confirmed that the incremental capital opportunities at Encore are outside the current base plan, with confidence in executing the capital plan due to supportive legislative developments [38][40] Question: LNG market and contracting opportunities - Management expressed a bullish view on LNG demand driven by energy security in Europe and growing needs in Asia, positioning Gulf Coast assets favorably [85][88] Question: Timing of UTM filings and ROE improvement - Management expects the first UTM filing in the first half of next year, anticipating a low-end impact on ROE this year, with potential for higher contributions in subsequent years [102][104]