HEI(US:HE)2026-02-27 22:30Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For the full year 2025, the company generated net income of $123.1 million, or $0.71 per share, compared to a net loss of approximately $1.4 billion in 2024 [14] - Consolidated core net income was $149.3 million or $0.86 per share, compared to core income from continuing operations of $124.3 million or $0.98 per share in 2024 [15] - Utility core net income for the year was $177.5 million compared to $180.7 million in 2024, driven by higher O&M expenses [15] - The holding company core net loss was $28.2 million compared to $56.4 million in 2024, attributed to lower interest expense and higher interest income [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The utility's financial performance was impacted by higher operational and maintenance expenses, primarily due to previously deferred consulting and legal fees, and higher interest expense [15] - The company achieved a 37% renewable portfolio standard (RPS) in 2025, remaining on track to meet the 40% by 2030 statutory requirement [8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company has approximately $16 million and $486 million of unrestricted cash on hand at the holding company and utility levels, respectively [16] - The holding company has approximately $530 million in combined liquidity available under its ATM program and credit facility capacity [16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on advancing key initiatives post-Maui wildfires, including wildfire safety improvements and legislative measures to support community resilience [4] - The company plans to submit a joint rebasing proposal with Ulupono Initiative by March 6, 2026, aiming for a non-traditional rate rebasing process [10] - The company is pursuing low-cost financing options to reduce impacts on customers from critical investments required for safety and resilience [11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the path ahead, highlighting significant progress made in 2025 and the importance of resolving outstanding appeals related to the tort settlement [12][14] - The company anticipates making its first $479 million settlement payment in the second half of 2026, contingent on resolving outstanding appeals [17] Other Important Information - The company successfully issued $500 million in utility debt last year, enhancing financial flexibility and liquidity [8] - An executive transition is planned, with Scott DeGhetto resigning as CFO effective April 2, 2026, and Paul Ito returning to the role [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the latest appeal by the insurers? - Management noted that the only remaining item is the appeal regarding the summary judgment that dismissed the insurers' claims, with no briefing scheduled yet [20][21] Question: What are your thoughts on financing the second settlement payment? - Management indicated a preference for convertible debt for financing, with plans to wait until after the settlement is approved before raising funds [22][23] Question: How do you plan to use the ATM program for financing? - Management stated that the ATM program is available for opportunistic use, depending on market conditions [24] Question: What is the status of the divestment of the remaining stake in American Savings Bank? - The company intends to divest the remaining 9.9% stake in 2026, subject to market conditions [25] Question: What are the key elements in the upcoming PBR rebasing proposal? - Management highlighted the focus on inflationary adjustment factors, PIM redesign, and expanding the scope of the Exceptional Project Recovery Mechanism [30][31] Question: What are the milestones for the Wildfire Recovery Fund? - Management indicated that the PUC rulemaking process for the liability cap is expected to take 18-24 months, with critical milestones tied to this process [39][40]