HEI(US:HE)2026-02-27 22:32Financial 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 and other factors [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The utility's core net income decreased due to higher operational expenses, including deferred consulting and legal fees, and higher interest expenses [15] - The holding company reported a core net loss of $28.2 million, an improvement from a loss of $56.4 million in 2024, attributed to lower interest expenses and higher interest income [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The utility achieved a 37% renewable portfolio standard (RPS) in 2025, remaining on track to meet the 40% RPS requirement by 2030 [8][9] - Customer bills remained stable in 2025 despite significant investments in wildfire safety and resilience [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on advancing key initiatives related to wildfire safety, legislative measures, and financial stability in the face of severe weather events [4][7] - 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][11] - 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 progress made in key initiatives 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 and increased its revolver to $600 million to support financial flexibility [8] - An executive transition is planned, with Scott DeGhetto resigning as CFO effective April 2, 2026, and Paul Ito returning to the role [12][13] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the chances the Hawaii Supreme Court will take up the insurers' appeal? - Management noted that the only remaining item is the appeal, and previous decisions by the courts have been supportive of the settlements [21] Question: What are the latest thoughts on financing the second settlement payment? - Management indicated a preference for convertible debt for financing and stated that no financing would occur until after the settlement is approved [22][23] Question: How much of the $250 million ATM program will be used for financing? - Management stated that the ATM program is available for opportunistic use, depending on market conditions [24] Question: What is the timing for the divestment of the remaining stake in American Savings Bank? - Management confirmed plans 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 adjustments, PIM redesign, and ensuring targets are within the company's control [31][32] Question: What are the milestones for the Wildfire Recovery Fund and liability cap process? - Management outlined that the PUC rulemaking process for the liability cap is expected to take 18-24 months, with critical milestones tied to this process [41][42]