OGE Energy (OGE) 5 Nov 24 2024 Q3 Earnings call transcript

OGE Energy Corp. unveiled a robust performance in the third quarter of 2024, marking a significant milestone in its strategic growth trajectory. The company, led by its Chairman, President, and CEO, Sean Trauschke, and Interim CFO, Chuck Walworth, demonstrated a strong financial foundation and a clear vision for the future. The earnings call offered a glimpse into the company's operational excellence, financial health, and strategic plans.

Financial Performance and Guidance

OGE Energy Corp. reported consolidated earnings of $1.09 per share, driven by a solid demand for energy across all sectors and continued customer growth, outpacing historical norms. The company's exceptional operational excellence and increased digital self-service technologies have played a crucial role in its growth. With its solid performance this quarter, OGE now expects to surpass its original earnings guidance of $2.06 to $2.18 per share.

Load Growth and Regulatory Updates

The company's focus on energy efficiency and demand response strategies has been a key driver of its success, with demand growth remaining strong at the top of the revised range of 4% to 6%. OGE has seen growth across all customer classes, led by commercial and extraordinarily strong residential growth. The company's investments in reliability and system growth, such as the $536 million investment at Horseshoe Lake, are expected to continue driving economic prosperity in Oklahoma and Western Arkansas.

Investor Questions and Future Outlook

During the Q&A session, analysts probed into the company's plans for SPP, CapEx updates, and resource mix. OGE's leadership provided insights into its flexible approach to investments, emphasizing its commitment to serving its customers and maintaining low rates. The company is poised to continue its focus on reliability, affordability, and sustainability, with plans to file for approval in the first half of 2025 for its generation capacity RFPs.

Storm Response and Community Engagement

The call highlighted OGE's resilience in the face of recent storms and its commitment to community engagement. The company's swift response to restore power to tens of thousands of customers and support local election officials showcased its dedication to serving its customers without favor. These efforts underscore OGE's long-term vision of delivering safe, reliable, affordable, and resilient electricity to its customers.

Investor Takeaways

OGE Energy Corp.'s Q3 2024 earnings call provided a comprehensive overview of its financial health, strategic plans, and operational achievements. The company's focus on load growth, regulatory updates, and investor engagement underscores its commitment to sustainable growth and customer-centricity. With a strong financial foundation and a clear vision for the future, OGE Energy Corp. is well-positioned to continue its growth trajectory and deliver consistent yearly consolidated EPS growth of 5% to 7%.