National Fuel Gas pany(NFG) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - National Fuel Gas Company reported adjusted earnings per share of $1.22 for Q4 2025, a 58% increase from the previous year, and a 38% increase compared to fiscal 2024 [4][12] - The company achieved a consolidated production increase of 21% year over year, with total per unit operating expenses lower [13] - Adjusted earnings per share in the integrated upstream and gathering business increased by 70% year over year [13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The integrated upstream and gathering segment saw significant growth, with production increasing by approximately 20% since the EDA transition began in mid-2023 [4][5] - The company added approximately 220 prospective well locations in the Upper Utica formation, nearly doubling its inventory in the EDA [5] - Capital expenditures for the integrated upstream and gathering segment are expected to be $550-$610 million for fiscal 2026, down 3% at the midpoint compared to fiscal 2025 [26] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - NYMEX prices averaged approximately $3.75, with adjusted earnings expected to be within the range of $7.60-$8.10 per share for fiscal 2026 [14][17] - Approximately 85% of expected fiscal 2026 volumes are covered by physical firm sales and/or firm transportation, minimizing exposure to spot pricing [27] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on enhancing capital efficiency and operational excellence, with a strong emphasis on the development of its Tioga County assets [4][5] - National Fuel is pursuing the acquisition of CenterPoint's Ohio Gas Utility, which is expected to double its utility rate base and provide significant growth opportunities [10][20] - The company is optimistic about the future of natural gas as a reliable energy source, advocating for an all-of-the-above energy approach [11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's long-term growth potential, citing strong operational performance and a solid outlook for fiscal 2026 [12][20] - The company anticipates generating $300-$350 million in free cash flow for fiscal 2026, which will support dividend payments and balance sheet strengthening [17] - Management highlighted the importance of firm transportation agreements to ensure market access for production growth [6][27] Other Important Information - The company streamlined its segment reporting by combining exploration and production with gathering into one integrated segment [14] - National Fuel's sustainability efforts were recognized, with improvements in ECHO origin ratings reflecting its commitment to environmental stewardship [30] Q&A Session Summary Question: Details on Upper Utica inventory and economics - Management indicated that the Upper Utica zone has been under examination for years, with confidence in the 220 locations based on extensive testing and production history [34][35] Question: Outlook for in-basin demand and project interest - Management noted strong interest from data center developers and other entities, emphasizing the advantages of integrated operations in discussions with potential partners [36][37] Question: Upper Utica's role in future plans - Management confirmed that Upper Utica wells will be incorporated into future plans, with a gradual increase in their proportion relative to Lower Utica wells [40][41] Question: Debt allocation with CenterPoint acquisition - Management explained that financing decisions are made at the parent company level, considering overall cash flows and capital structures across segments [42] Question: Supply Corp rate case returns - Management indicated that typical rate-making returns for Supply Corp are in the low double digits, with potential for higher returns based on capital structure [45][46]