Durgesh Chopra's questions to Essential Utilities Inc (WTRG) leadership • Q1 2025
Question
Durgesh Chopra of Evercore ISI highlighted the strong Q1 EPS results and questioned if the company was being conservative by not raising full-year guidance. He also asked how the recent EPA announcement on PFAS regulations impacts the company's operational strategy and capital plans.
Answer
CFO Daniel Schuller responded that it is premature to adjust full-year guidance after only one quarter, acknowledging the strong start but noting that potential headwinds could emerge in the remaining three quarters. CEO Christopher Franklin addressed the PFAS topic, stating the company is proceeding "full speed ahead" with its $450 million capital plan to achieve compliance by 2028, as directed by state regulators, and sees no change to its strategy following the EPA announcement.