Avista(AVA) - 2024 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Consolidated earnings for Q4 2024 were $0.84 per diluted share, down from$1.08 in Q4 2023 [6] - Full year consolidated earnings were $2.29 per diluted share, slightly up from$2.24 in the previous year [6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Utility earnings improved nearly 5% from 2023, despite higher costs [7] - Avista Utilities delivered earnings near the midpoint of the original guidance range for the segment [19] - AEL&P's results were on target, contributing positively to overall performance [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Washington Commission increased the return on equity to 9.8% [8] - The company recognized a pre-tax expense of $8 million under the energy recovery mechanism due to poor hydro and power supply costs [20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company invested a record$510 million in Avista Utilities to enhance customer service [11] - The North Plains Connector project aims to improve regional reliability and resource adequacy [11] - The company plans to issue an all-source RFP for up to 375 megawatts of generation targeted for 2029 [12] - A focus on wildfire risk mitigation was highlighted, with legislative efforts underway [13][14] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the regulatory outcomes and the potential for growth in 2025 [10][34] - The company initiated earnings guidance for 2025 in the range of $2.52 to$2.72 per diluted share [16] - Expected annual increases in O&M expenses are projected to be closer to 4% going forward [30] Other Important Information - The board increased the dividend for shareholders by just over 3% to $1.96 per share [17] - Capital expenditures for 2025 are projected at$525 million, with a long-term expectation of nearly 3 billion from 2025 to 2029 [25] Q&A Session Summary Question: Guidance for 2025 and growth rate expectations - Management established guidance at a midpoint of 2.62, with a focus on achieving the midpoint of the growth rate [39][40] Question: Idaho rate case details - The procedural schedule is being established, with a potential technical hearing in late July [43] Question: Long-term growth rate consistency - Management expects to generally remain within the 4% to 6% growth range, barring inflation or significant investment opportunities [48] Question: Contribution from non-utility businesses - Management indicated that contributions from non-utility businesses are expected to be near zero moving forward [56] Question: Inclusion of energy recovery mechanism in guidance - The company is including a $0.12 negative impact from the energy recovery mechanism in its guidance for 2025 [59]