CNX Resources(US:CNX)2026-01-29 16:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a stable production profile throughout the year, with first-half capital expenditures (Capex) expected to account for about 60% of the total annual Capex [9] - Current production levels are generating approximately $30 million annually under the proposed guidance for the 45Z program [11] - The average drilling cost for Utica wells is approximately $1,700 per foot, with performance aligned with expectations [27] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The RMG business line has seen stable pricing in the PA Tier 1 REC market, with expectations for future price increases tied to stricter renewable energy standards [10] - The company is completing about 5 Utica laterals this year, indicating confidence in the Utica program despite a lower number of turn-in-lines than expected [17] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Coal mine methane volumes have experienced a modest year-over-year decline, primarily driven by underlying mining activity [30] - The company is approximately 60% hedged for 2027, targeting a weighted average NYMEX price of about $4, which is favorable for business performance [32][34] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on maintaining production levels while being responsive to material changes in gas prices, with plans to potentially add frac activity in the second half of 2026 [25][26] - Long-term strategies involve waiting for infrastructure and demand projects to materialize before increasing production volumes [40] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in operational preparedness during extreme cold weather events, indicating no expected disruptions to operations or volumes [19] - The company is cautious about increasing production without clear visibility on future gas prices, emphasizing a long-term approach rather than reacting to short-term market fluctuations [39] Other Important Information - The company is exploring new technologies, such as AutoStep, which has been adopted for flowbacks, but currently does not contribute materially to financial results [21] - The company has a remaining inventory of approximately 40,000-50,000 acres in the core Southwest PA Marcellus area, which is expected to last into the next decade [46] Q&A Session Summary Question: Inquiry about capital and production profile - Management indicated that first-half Capex would be about 60% of the total, allowing flexibility for potential acceleration in the second half [9] Question: Outlook on RMG business line pricing - Management noted that the PA Tier 1 REC market has stabilized, with future price increases dependent on stricter renewable energy standards [10] Question: Clarification on Utica program size - Management clarified that the smaller program size is due to timing, with confidence in the Utica program remaining strong [17] Question: Expectations for operational disruptions due to weather - Management confirmed that they do not expect any disruptions, as preparations have been made [19] Question: Update on new technology business - Management stated that while AutoStep technology is being adopted, it has not yet materially impacted financial results [21] Question: Hedging strategy for 2027 - Management confirmed they are approximately 60% hedged for 2027, targeting a favorable NYMEX price [32][34] Question: Incremental takeaway and infrastructure projects - Management noted that while some projects are proposed, there is currently no material movement off maintenance production levels [42]