MDU Resources (US:MDU)2025-08-07 19:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported second quarter earnings of $13.7 million or $0.07 per share, compared to $60.4 million or $0.30 per share in the same period of 2024 [12] - Income from continuing operations was $14.1 million for the second quarter or $0.07 per share, down from $20.2 million or $0.10 per share in 2024 [12] - The company narrowed its earnings per share guidance to a range of $0.88 to $0.95 per share from a previous range of $0.88 to $0.98 per share [10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The electric utility segment reported second quarter earnings of $10.4 million, down from $15.5 million in the same period in 2024, primarily due to higher payroll costs and planned outages [12][13] - The natural gas utility experienced a seasonal loss of $7.4 million in the second quarter, compared to a loss of $5 million in 2024, driven by increased operating expenses and lower volumes due to warmer weather [13] - The pipeline segment posted second quarter earnings of $15.4 million, down from a record $17.3 million in the prior year, impacted by higher operating expenses [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The utility experienced combined retail customer growth of 1.4% compared to the same time last year, aligning with the targeted annual growth rate of 1% to 2% [5] - The company has signed electric service agreements for 580 megawatts of data center load, with 180 megawatts currently online and additional capacity expected to come online in the coming years [7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on a capital investment of $3.1 billion over the next five years, targeting 7% to 8% compounded annual utility rate base growth and 1% to 2% annual customer growth [11] - The company plans to file general rate cases in Wyoming and Montana, and is refining wildfire mitigation plans across its electric service territory [6][8] - The company remains committed to investing in future expansion projects to meet customer demand, including the Minot expansion project which will add approximately 7 million cubic feet of natural gas transportation capacity per day [9] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management noted unfavorable weather and increased operating costs impacted second quarter results, but expressed confidence in the company's long-term growth strategy [4][10] - The company anticipates a long-term EPS growth rate of 6% to 8% while targeting a 60% to 70% annual dividend payout ratio [11] - Management emphasized the importance of operational excellence and customer focus as key components of their strategy moving forward [11] Other Important Information - The company maintains a strong balance sheet and ample access to working capital, with no equity needs in 2025 based on the current capital plan [16] - The binding open season for the Baker storage field enhancement project concluded in May, and the company is evaluating a smaller project based on customer interest [10] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact of lower storage project size on Bakken East pipeline - Management indicated that the Baker storage enhancement project does not have implications for the Bakken East project, and there may be opportunities for expansion if Bakken East proceeds [20][22] Question: Revised EPS guidance and its impact on long-term outlook - Management explained that the revision was due to weather impacts and higher operating expenses, but they do not expect these to be long-term trends [23][24] Question: North Dakota Industrial Commission meeting and its implications - Management confirmed the timing of the next meeting and indicated that state support would enhance the Bakken East project, but customer commitments are also crucial [29][30] Question: Quantifying drivers of guidance revision - Management provided insights on the planned outage and weather impacts, estimating a $1 million impact from weather alone in the quarter [33][34] Question: Capacity absorption for data centers before needing new infrastructure - Management stated that there is additional capacity available without new infrastructure, but they are willing to explore investments if necessary [36][38]