MDU Resources (US:MDU)2026-02-05 20:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In 2025, the company reported earnings of $190.4 million, or $0.93 per share, compared to $281.1 million, or $1.37 per share in 2024, reflecting a decrease in overall earnings [15] - Income from continuing operations was $191.4 million, or $0.93 per share diluted, compared to $181.1 million, or $0.88 per diluted share in 2024, indicating an increase in continuing operations [16] - The consolidated debt-to-capitalization ratio increased slightly to 49.1% due to the acquisition of Badger Wind Farm [20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The electric utility segment reported earnings of $64.9 million in 2025, down from $74.8 million in 2024, primarily due to higher operation and maintenance expenses [16] - The natural gas utility reported earnings of $56.1 million, a 19.6% increase from $46.9 million in 2024, driven by higher retail sales revenue and rate relief across multiple jurisdictions [17] - The pipeline business achieved record earnings of $68.2 million in 2025, slightly up from $68 million in 2024, supported by expansion projects and customer demand [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The utility experienced a combined retail customer growth of 1.5% compared to 2024, aligning with the targeted annual growth rate of 1%-2% [3] - The company has 580 MW of data center load under signed electric service agreements, with various phases of load coming online through 2027 [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on executing its capital investment plans, with a revised capital investment plan of $3.1 billion for 2026 through 2030 [4] - The company is pursuing additional discussions with potential data center customers and evaluating other capital projects to meet existing customer demand and enhance grid resiliency [9] - The company anticipates a long-term EPS growth rate of 6%-8% and targets a 60%-70% annual dividend payout ratio [13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the ability to execute long-term growth strategies and emphasized the importance of operational focus and financial discipline [13] - The company initiated earnings per share guidance for 2026 in the range of $0.93-$1.00 per share, reflecting strong performance across segments while accounting for equity financing [12] Other Important Information - The company completed a follow-on public offering of over 10.15 million shares at a price of $19.70 per share, which is expected to meet a significant portion of the company's 2026 equity issuance needs [20] - The company filed for recovery of the Badger Wind Farm investment in North Dakota, which was approved by the North Dakota Public Service Commission [5] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you elaborate on the 2026 guidance and year-over-year headwinds? - Management indicated that while they expect growth, the midpoint of the EPS range for 2026 may not meet the long-term growth rate of 6%-8% due to various factors including rate case activity and equity issuance [25][26] Question: What are the next steps for the Bakken East Pipeline project? - Management explained that they are currently in a binding open season until mid-March and are pleased with customer interest, with plans to finalize project design and execute customer agreements before making a final investment decision [27][28]