Edison International's Q2 2025: Unraveling Contradictions in Wildfire Investigations and Financial Strategies

Eaton fire investigation and timeline, wildfire recovery compensation program and fund allocation, wildfire fund and utilities' financial health, policy environment and wildfire risk solutions, investor confidence and regulatory framework are the key contradictions discussed in Edison International's latest 2025Q2 earnings call.



Earnings and Financial Performance:
- Edison International reported second quarter core earnings per share of $0.97 compared to $1.23 a year ago.
- The year-over-year comparison is considered not meaningful due to the pending decision on SCE's 2025 General Rate Case.
- Despite this, Edison International maintains confidence in achieving their 2025 EPS guidance and a 5% to 7% core EPS CAGR through 2028.

Eaton Fire and Investigations:
- The investigations into the Eaton Fire by SCE and LA County Fire Department are ongoing, with no new disclosures on ignition or estimated costs at this point.
- SCE is not aware of evidence pointing to another possible source of ignition, indicating a probable involvement of its transmission equipment.
- Numerous lawsuits have been brought against SCE, and it is confident that, if associated with the fire, its actions would align with reasonable utility standards.

Regulatory Developments:
- SCE's 2025 DRC received a proposed decision with aligned revenue requirements of $9.8 billion, supporting significant capital investments.
- The decision includes reductions in proposed programs but affirms the need for effective wildfire mitigation strategies such as covered conductor and targeted undergrounding.
- SCE will seek revisions and advocate for adjustments in the final decision to better align with state climate objectives and stakeholder needs.

Wildfire Recovery Compensation Program:
- SCE announced a wildfire recovery compensation program to launch in the fall, offering direct payments to eligible individuals and businesses affected by the Eaton Fire.
- The program aims to facilitate quick claim resolution, reduce legal costs, and mitigate the impacts of interest expense and inflation.
- This step is taken in anticipation of a probable loss, ensuring community support while efficiently managing the wildfire fund.