Alliant Energy(US:LNT)2026-02-20 16:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Alliant Energy reported ongoing earnings per share (EPS) growth of $0.18 for 2025 compared to 2024, driven by increased revenue requirements from rate-based increases and favorable temperature impacts on electric and gas sales [13][14] - The company achieved a 10-year compound annual EPS growth of 6.3%, with ongoing EPS growth of 6% in 2025, exceeding the midpoint of guidance [5][14] - A total shareholder return of over 13% was delivered for the year, marking the 22nd consecutive year of dividend increases [5] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Wisconsin, Alliant Energy completed 275 MW of energy storage investments and turbine upgrades, contributing to regulatory execution strength [6] - Electric sales increased by nearly 1% in 2025 compared to 2024, primarily driven by higher commercial and industrial sales [14] - The company has a backlog of opportunities to drive future growth, including four executed electric service agreements (EFAs) totaling 3 GW of peak load [9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is focused on capturing growth opportunities in both Iowa and Wisconsin, with a commitment to keep Iowa retail electric base rates flat for existing customers through the end of the decade [8] - Alliant Energy is actively engaged with customers to pursue 2-4 GW of additional large load growth opportunities beyond current projections [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to unlock the potential of customers and communities, with a focus on data centers as significant capital investments that benefit local tax bases [6][7] - Alliant Energy's strategy includes maximizing existing resources, extending asset life, and integrating renewables and energy storage facilities to maintain reliability [11] - The company emphasizes a proactive approach to economic development, ensuring that customers benefit from data center growth without incurring additional costs [76] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted the importance of agility and disciplined decision-making in navigating the evolving energy landscape [10] - The company expects a compound annual earnings growth rate of 7%+ from 2027 to 2029, based on current projections for capital expenditure plans and data center load [18] - Management expressed confidence in the ability to execute projects within the updated capital expenditure plan, supported by a strong liquidity position [19] Other Important Information - Alliant Energy's four-year capital plan remains on track, with a total expected common equity need of approximately $2.4 billion, of which $1 billion has already been raised [20] - The company achieved several constructive regulatory decisions throughout the year, aligning its regulatory agenda with capital investment plans [21] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the minimum take agreements for the 3 GW of data centers? - Management confirmed that any additional demand from hyperscalers would be accretive to current planning assumptions [30] Question: How are conversations with hyperscalers evolving, especially regarding Wisconsin and Iowa? - Management noted that Iowa has strategic advantages, and they are committed to ensuring Wisconsin remains open for business, despite local challenges [32] Question: What is the path to construction for the relocated QTS data center? - Management indicated that they are pleased with their ability to pivot quickly and are working on the necessary permitting and zoning approvals [42] Question: What are the expectations for retail sales growth in 2026? - Management expects retail sales growth of approximately 1%, with most data center load anticipated to come in 2027 and beyond [53] Question: How does the shift in renewables and gas generation relate to the QTS project? - Management clarified that the shift is part of a consistent investment plan, with adjustments made to accommodate the relocated load [57]