Consolidated Quarterly Results and Guidance Affirmation
Q1 2026 earnings of $80.8 million, or $0.39 per share, compared to Q1 2025 earnings of $82.0 million, or $0.40 per share (consolidated EPS decline of ~2.5%; total earnings decline of ~1.5%). Company affirmed full-year 2026 EPS guidance of $0.93 to $1.00 and reiterated long-term EPS growth target of 6%–8% and targeted dividend payout ratio of 60%–70%.
Strong Commercial Interest for Bakken East Pipeline
Binding open season produced ~1.4 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) of interest; ~40% of that interest is under signed precedent agreements (~0.56 Bcf/d signed). Included in signed agreements is a firm $50 million annual commitment for 10 years from the state of North Dakota. Project design estimates released and projected incremental capex range of $2.7 billion to $3.2 billion (would be incremental to existing $3.1 billion capital forecast).
Data Center Load Growth and Capital-Light Strategy
580 megawatts under signed electric service agreements (ESAs). 180 MW online since mid-2023 (~31% of signed MW); additional 50 MW online and 50 MW ramping; 150 MW expected later in 2026 (~26% of signed MW), 100 MW in 2027 (~17%), and 50 MW in 2028 (~9%). Current capital-light approach yields an approximate $70/year bill credit for average retail customer today, with potential to increase to over $200/year when all volumes are fully online.
Regulatory and Project Milestones
Wyoming electric rate case approved effective April 1, 2026; Montana interim rates approved for an annual $10.4 million increase effective April 1 (subject to refund); Idaho gas rates effective January 1 added ~$13 million annually; Washington year-two rates added ~$10.8 million effective March 1. FERC Section 7(c) application filed in March for Align Section 32 expansion (~$70 million capex included in $3.1 billion plan).
Retail Customer Growth and Demand Trends
Combined utility retail customer growth of 1.4% year-over-year, within the company's target band of 1%–2%, supporting customer-driven growth projects and long-term EPS growth objectives.
Balance Sheet and Financing Options
Company reports a strong balance sheet and ample access to working capital. In March 2026, 4.3 million new common shares were issued from forward sale settlements for proceeds of approximately $81.3 million, enhancing liquidity. Management indicates all financing options are being considered for large projects (balance-sheet financing, partnerships, and other structures).