American States Water pany(AWR) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported earnings of $3.37 per share for 2025, an increase of $0.20 per share compared to 2024, or $0.33 per share higher when adjusted [5][17] - Adjusted earnings for 2024 were $3.04 per share, compared to $3.37 per share for 2025, representing a 10.9% increase [6][17] - Consolidated revenue for the fourth quarter increased by $21.2 million compared to 2024, with water segment revenue increasing by $17.4 million due to new rates [12][13] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Golden State Water reported earnings of $0.50 per share for Q4 2025, down from $0.52 per share in 2024, but adjusted earnings increased by $0.11 per share due to new water rates and lower interest expenses [10] - The electric segment reported earnings of $0.11 per share for Q4 2025, down from $0.13 per share in 2024, but adjusted earnings increased by $0.04 per share due to rate increases [11] - ASUS contributed earnings of $0.16 per share for Q4 2025, up from $0.11 per share in the same quarter last year, reflecting higher construction activities [12][35] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company invested $210.9 million in infrastructure at regulated utilities in 2025, reflecting strong execution of its capital plan [6] - ASUS was awarded $29.4 million in new capital upgrade construction projects during 2025, expected to be completed through 2028 [8][35] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to expand its regulated water operations and has completed transactions to own and operate water and wastewater systems for new planned communities [6][7] - The company is preparing for its next water rate case, expected to be filed by July 1, 2026, transitioning to a modified rate adjustment mechanism [20][21] - The company raised its quarterly cash dividend by 8.3%, marking the 71st consecutive year of annual dividend increases [8][36] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the regulatory outcomes and the ability to invest in utility infrastructure for reliable services [5] - The company noted a nearly 4% decrease in water consumption compared to adopted levels, but this did not materially impact earnings due to favorable water supply source mix [21] - Management projected ASUS to contribute $0.63-$0.67 per share in 2026, indicating confidence in competing for new military base contract awards [36] Other Important Information - The company raised proceeds of $67 million under its at-the-market offering program during the year, with a remaining balance of $40.7 million available [19] - The company anticipates a robust growth in its rate base, with a compound annual growth rate of 11.3% from 2021 to 2026 [29] Q&A Session Summary - There were no questions during the Q&A session, and the call concluded without any inquiries from participants [38]