Eversource(ES) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported GAAP and recurring earnings of $1.5 per share for the first quarter, compared to$1.49 per share in the previous year, indicating a slight increase in earnings [16] - Higher utility earnings were largely offset by a decrease in parent and other earnings, with electric transmission earnings increasing by $0.04 per share due to increased revenues from system investments [17] - The natural gas segment saw improved results of$0.06 per share, primarily due to higher revenues from infrastructure investments [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Electric distribution earnings increased by $0.03 per share, benefiting from grid modernization and rate mechanisms in New Hampshire and Massachusetts [17] - Water earnings remained comparable year over year, as the first quarter is typically a low usage period [18] - Parent losses increased by$0.12 per share in 2025, primarily due to higher interest expenses and the absence of capitalized interest from the offshore wind investment [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is projecting an 8% rate base growth over the next five years, with a strategic shift towards higher distribution spending in Massachusetts to meet electrification goals [6] - The company is examining numerous opportunities related to the ISO New England's new RFP for transmission operators to address future load growth [7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to leverage its strengths in transmission and distribution investment opportunities, reaffirming its 2025 EPS guidance and long-term EPS growth rate of 5% to 7% through 2029 [5] - The company is focused on customer innovation and affordability, investing in advanced technologies to enhance reliability and efficiency [8] - The divestment of Aquarion Water is a key strategic initiative expected to close by the end of the year, which will improve the company's FFO to debt ratio [12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to drive value for customers and shareholders, emphasizing a commitment to sustained growth and strategic vision [14] - The management highlighted ongoing efforts to address affordability and stabilize rates in response to high gas bills due to increased demand [10] - The company is optimistic about its future growth opportunities, particularly in transmission and distribution, as well as customer-focused investments [28] Other Important Information - The company is actively working with state leaders to develop long-term solutions for rate stability and transparency [11] - The company has made significant progress in its AMI project, with 40% of the communication network deployment completed [9] - The company expects to see a 6% reduction in average residential customer rates in Connecticut due to the implementation of an annual rate adjustment mechanism [20] Q&A Session Summary Question: Tariff exposure related to offshore projects - Management confirmed that all necessary equipment has been procured and does not anticipate significant challenges related to tariffs for the Revolution project [32][34] Question: Regulatory approval timeline for Aquarion - Management expects the transaction to close in 2025, with no anticipated issues in the regulatory approval process [39][41] Question: Impact of securitization on equity needs - Management indicated that if securitization occurs, they would revisit their equity needs [46] Question: Update on AMI process - Management is seeking clarity on the recovery of expenditures related to the AMI process [47] Question: PURA composition and timing for certainty - Management expressed eagerness for a stable regulatory climate but could not predict the timing for filling the PURA seats [52] Question: FFO to debt improvement expectations - Management expects significant improvement in FFO to debt metrics due to enhanced cash flows from operations [60] Question: Millstone recontracting rates - Management noted that it is too early to determine the impact of the Millstone contract, which is up in 2029 [68] Question: GSEP rule changes impact - Management stated that the GSEP filing's impact is manageable and they continue to support safe and reliable gas services [76] Question: Completion percentage of the Revolution project - Management did not provide a specific percentage but confirmed that construction is progressing well [78]