RGC Resources(US:RGCO)2025-12-04 15:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a net loss of $204,000 or $0.02 per share in Q4 2025, compared to a net income of $141,000 or $0.01 per share in the same quarter of the previous year, reflecting higher expenses due to inflation [6][7] - For the full fiscal year 2025, net income was $13.3 million or $1.29 per share, a 15% increase from $11.8 million or $1.16 per share in fiscal 2024, driven by record gas deliveries and higher operating margins [8][9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company installed nearly five main miles of gas lines, a 50% increase from fiscal 2024, and connected over 700 new services, up from approximately 630 in fiscal 2024 [2][3] - Total gas volumes delivered increased by 8% in Q4 2025 compared to Q4 2024, with heating degree days up 18%, leading to a 14% increase in total volumes year-over-year [4][5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company expects to end the second quarter of fiscal 2026 with approximately 65,000 customers, despite seasonal disconnections during spring [3] - The company is optimistic about customer growth in the Roanoke Valley, averaging over 660 new customers per year, maintaining a steady growth rate of around 1% [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company filed an expedited rate case seeking a $4.3 million increase in annual revenues, expected to take effect on January 1, 2026, subject to commission review [13][14] - The capital budget for 2026 is projected at $22 million, focusing on system renewal and expansion opportunities as they arise [15][18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged that fiscal 2026 is expected to be more challenging than 2025 due to inflationary pressures and uncertainty in volume deliveries [19] - The company is optimistic about ongoing projects like the Southgate and Boost projects, which are expected to enhance cash flows and overall investment value [9][12] Other Important Information - The company successfully refinanced debt supporting its investment in the Mountain Valley Pipeline, extending maturity to 2032 [8][9] - The company plans to return certain tax credits to customers over the next 12 months, which will be reflected in regulatory liabilities [13] Q&A Session Summary Question: How is the weather tracking compared to last year? - Management noted that while October had unusual weather patterns, November turned warm before becoming cold around Thanksgiving, which is expected to positively impact gas volumes [21][22] Question: Any capital requirements from the EVP projects in 2026? - The CFO indicated that the refinancing included facilities to fund investments in the Boost and Southgate projects, estimating total investment of $4-$5 million over the next several years [23] Question: Updates on data centers and Google’s investment? - Management highlighted significant investments by Google in Virginia, which may lead to more precise announcements regarding their intentions in the region in 2026 [25][26]