Natural Gas Services Q1 2025: Unpacking Key Contradictions on Demand, CapEx, and Monetization Plans

Demand environment and pricing, impact of electric units on CapEx, gross margin impact of high horsepower rental mix, demand environment and contract pricing, monetization plans and use of proceeds are the key contradictions discussed in Natural Gas Services' latest 2025Q1 earnings call.



Strong Financial Performance:
- Natural Gas Services Group reported total revenue of $41.4 million for Q1 2025, a 12% increase over the prior year quarter. Rental revenue hit a quarterly record of $38.9 million, up 15% year-over-year and 2% sequentially. Adjusted EBITDA was $19.3 million in the quarter.
- The growth was driven by higher average rented horsepower and continued pricing improvements, particularly from large horsepower units.

Fleet Expansion and Customer Diversification:
- The company has signed contracts and unit deliveries scheduled to add roughly 90,000 horsepower, most of which in 2025, with a significant number of signed contracts for unit deliveries in 2026.
- This expansion is focused on large horsepower, including an increase in electric motor drives, allocated to a key customer expected to become the second-largest, contributing over 10% of total revenue once units are set.

Asset Utilization and Margin Improvement:
- Days receivable improved from 118 days a year ago to 35 days at the end of Q4 2024 and stayed at 35 days at the end of Q1 2025. Rented adjusted gross margin reached 61.9%, up 80 basis points from the prior year and 150 basis points sequentially.
- Progress was made through monetization efforts, including the $11 million income tax receivable, and significant owned real estate, which are expected to improve capital efficiency and increase utilization.

Market Conditions and Strategic Positioning:
- Market demand for compression remains strong, with discussions with customers focused on growth in 2026. Natural gas prices are currently hovering in the mid-3s after peaking above four, with a broad range of 2026 forecasts.
- NGS continues to focus on technological innovation, high service levels, and a flexible balance sheet, which has enabled it to withstand market volatility and maintain its competitive position.