UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
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| ☒ | ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024
OR
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| ☐ | TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
For the transition period from to
Commission file number: 001-8966
SJW GROUP
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
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| Delaware | | 77-0066628 |
| (State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) | | (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) |
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| 110 West Taylor Street, | San Jose, | CA | | 95110 |
| (Address of principal executive offices) | | (Zip Code) |
(408) 279-7800
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
Not Applicable
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
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| Title of each class | | Trading Symbol(s) | | Name of each exchange on which registered |
| Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share | | SJW | | Nasdaq Global Select Market |
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes ☐ No ☒
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or emerging growth company. See definition of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company,” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer ☒ Accelerated filer ☐ Non-accelerated filer ☐ Smaller reporting company ☐ Emerging growth company ☐
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. ☒
If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the correction of an error to previously issued financial statements. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the registrant’s executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to §240.10D-1(b) ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐ No ☒
As of June 28, 2024, the aggregate market value of the registrant’s common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant was approximately $1.7 billion based on the closing sale price as reported on the New York Stock Exchange.
As of February 20, 2025, 33,671,362 shares of the registrant’s common stock, par value, $0.001 per share, were outstanding.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Portions of the registrant’s Proxy Statement relating to the registrant’s Annual Meeting of Stockholders are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Form 10-K where indicated.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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| PART I |
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| Item 1. | | |
| Item 1A. | | |
| Item 1B. | | |
| Item 1C. | | |
| Item 2. | | |
| Item 3. | | |
| Item 4. | | |
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| PART II |
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| Item 5. | | |
| Item 6. | | |
| Item 7. | | |
| Item 7A. | | |
| Item 8. | | |
| Item 9. | | |
| Item 9A. | | |
| Item 9B. | | |
| Item 9C. | | |
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| PART III |
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| Item 10. | | |
| Item 11. | | |
| Item 12. | | |
| Item 13. | | |
| Item 14. | | |
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| PART IV |
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| Item 15. | | |
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PART I
Forward-Looking Statements
This report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws relating to future events and future results of SJW Group and its subsidiaries that are based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts, and projections about SJW Group and its subsidiaries and the industries in which SJW Group and its subsidiaries operate and the beliefs and assumptions of the management of SJW Group. Some of these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “believes,” “expects,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “seeks,” “approximately,” “intends,” “plans,” “estimates,” “projects,” “strategy,” or “anticipates,” or the negative of those words or other comparable terminology. These forward-looking statements are only predictions and are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual results may differ materially and adversely from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, those discussed in this report under Item 1A, “Risk Factors,” and Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” and elsewhere, and in other reports and documents SJW Group files with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), specifically the most recent Form 10-Q and reports on Form 8-K filed with the SEC, each as it may be amended from time to time.
The accuracy of such statements is subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions including, but not limited to, the following factors:
•the effect of water, utility, environmental and other governmental policies and regulations, including regulatory actions concerning rates, authorized return on equity, authorized capital structures, capital expenditures, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (“PFAS”) and other decisions;
•changes in demand for water and other services;
•unanticipated weather conditions and changes in seasonality including those affecting water supply and customer usage;
•the effect of the impacts of climate change;
•unexpected costs, charges or expenses;
•our ability to successfully evaluate investments in new business and growth initiatives;
•contamination of our water supplies and damage or failure of our water equipment and infrastructure;
•the risk of work stoppages, strikes and other labor-related actions;
•catastrophic events such as fires, earthquakes, explosions, floods, ice storms, tornadoes, hurricanes, terrorist acts, physical attacks, cyber-attacks, epidemic or similar occurrences;
•changes in general economic, political, business and financial market conditions;
•the ability to obtain financing on favorable terms, which can be affected by various factors, including credit ratings, changes in interest rates, compliance with regulatory requirements, compliance with the terms and conditions of our outstanding indebtedness, and general market and economic conditions; and
•legislative and general market and economic developments.
Actual results are subject to other risks and uncertainties that relate more broadly to our overall business, including those more fully described in our filings with the SEC, including our most recent reports on Form 10-K, Form 10-Q and Form 8-K. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance, and speak only as of the date made, and SJW Group undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements except as required by law.
Item 1.Business
General Development of Business
SJW Group, a Delaware corporation, was initially incorporated as SJW Corp. in the state of California in 1985. SJW Group is a holding company that conducts its business through the following wholly owned subsidiaries:
•San Jose Water Company (“SJWC”), with its headquarters located at 110 West Taylor Street in San Jose, California 95110, was originally incorporated under the laws of the State of California in 1866. As part of a reorganization in 1985, SJWC became a wholly owned subsidiary of SJW Group. SJWC is a public utility in the business of providing water service in the metropolitan San Jose, California area.
•SJWNE LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, was formed in 2019, and is a wholly owned subsidiary of SJW Group. SJWNE LLC is a special purpose entity established to hold SJW Group’s investment in Connecticut Water Service, Inc. Connecticut Water Service, Inc. with its headquarters located in Clinton, Connecticut, was incorporated in 1974 in the State of Connecticut. As part of the merger transaction between SJW Group and Connecticut Water Service, Inc. in 2019, Connecticut Water Service, Inc. and its subsidiaries (“CTWS”) became a wholly owned subsidiary of SJWNE LLC. Connecticut Water Service, Inc. is a holding company with four wholly owned subsidiaries. The Connecticut Water Company (“CWC”) and The Maine Water Company (“MWC”) are public utilities in the business of providing water service throughout Connecticut and Maine. The remaining two subsidiaries are Chester Realty, Inc., a real estate company in Connecticut, and New England Water Utility Services, Inc. (“NEWUS”), which provides contract water and sewer operations and other water-related services.
•SJWTX Holdings, Inc., a Texas corporation, formed in 2021, is the holding company for SJWTX, Inc., doing business as The Texas Water Company (“TWC”), Texas Water Operation Services, LLC (“TWOS”) and Texas Water Resources, LLC (“TWR”). TWC is a public utility in the business of providing water service in Bandera, Blanco, Comal, Hays, Kendall, Medina and Travis Counties in the growing region between San Antonio and Austin, Texas. TWC additionally provides wastewater service in Comal and Kendall counties. TWC also holds a 25% equity interest in Acequia Water Supply Corporation (“Acequia”). Acequia has been determined to be a variable interest entity within the scope of Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 810—“Consolidation,” with TWC as the primary beneficiary. As a result, Acequia has been consolidated with TWC. TWOS was created for non-tariffed service operations and TWR was formed to hold wholesale water supply assets.
•SJW Land Company was incorporated in 1985. SJW Land Company owns undeveloped land in California.
•National Water Utility Services, LLC (“NWU”) is the contracting entity for shared services among the SJW Group affiliates formed in 2024.
Together, SJWC, excluding the City of Cupertino (“Cupertino”) service concession arrangement operations, CWC, MWC and TWC are referred to as “Water Utility Services,” which is our single reportable segment.
Other business activities that are not separately reportable segments are SJWC’s Cupertino service concession arrangement operations, TWOS, TWR, NEWUS, SJW Land Company and Chester Realty, Inc. and are collectively referred to as “Other Services.”
Regulation and Rates
Water Utility Services, excluding non-tariffed activities, are subject to rate regulation based on cost recovery and meets the criteria of accounting guidance for rate-regulated operations, which affects the timing of the recognition of certain revenues and expenses. SJW Group’s consolidated financial statements reflect the actions of regulators in the rate-making process. The rate-making process is intended to provide revenues sufficient to recover normal operating expenses, provide funds for replacement of water infrastructure and produce a fair and reasonable return on stockholder common equity. SJW Group’s regulated operations financing activities are designed to achieve capital structures consistent with regulatory guidelines in the locations
where the companies operate. The following summarizes each state’s authorized rates and capital structure as of December 31, 2024:
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| California | | Connecticut | | Texas (a) | | Maine (b) |
| Authorized capital structure (debt/equity) | 45% / 55% | | 47% / 53% | | 42% / 58% | | 49% / 51% |
| Authorized return on equity (c) | 9.81% | | 9.30% | | 10.88% | | 9.50% |
| Authorized rate base (in millions) | $1,203.0 | | $744.1 | | $57.6 | | $139.7 |
| Estimated rate base at year-end (in millions) (d) | $1,288.5 | | $791.6 | | $169.8 | | $187.1 |
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(a)Estimated by management.
(b)The authorized capital structure and return on equity shown are those of the largest division of MWC, the Biddeford and Saco division. This return on equity and capital structure will be used for any future Water Infrastructure Surcharge (“WISC”) calculations for all divisions until the Maine Public Utilities Commission (“MPUC”) has authorized or approved a different return on equity structure in a different proceeding.
(c)For California, the approved Water Cost of Capital Mechanism (“WCCM”)-adjusted return on equity is 10.01% less a 20-basis point reduction due to the reimplementation of the Water Conservation Memorandum Account (“WCMA”).
(d)An approximation of rate base which includes net utility plant not yet included in rate base pending rate case filings and outcomes.
California Regulatory Affairs
SJWC’s rates, service and other matters affecting its business are subject to regulation by the California Public Utilities Commission (“CPUC”).
Generally, there are three types of rate adjustments that affect SJWC’s revenue collection: general rate adjustments, cost of capital adjustments, and offset rate adjustments. General rate adjustments are authorized in general rate case decisions, which usually authorize an initial rate adjustment followed by two annual escalation adjustments. General rate applications are normally filed and processed during the last year covered by the most recent general rate case as required by the CPUC in order to avoid any gaps in regulatory decisions on general rate adjustments. Actual revenue received may be higher or lower than the revenue requirement due to a number of factors including actual customer counts, usage or other regulatory factors in force at the time.
Cost of capital adjustments are rate adjustments resulting from the CPUC’s usual tri-annual establishment of a reasonable rate of return for SJWC’s capital investments.
The purpose of an offset rate adjustment is to compensate utilities for changes in specific pre-authorized offsettable capital investments or expenses, primarily for purchased water, groundwater extraction, purchased power, pensions, and group health insurance. Pursuant to Section 792.5 of the California Public Utilities Code, a balancing account must be maintained for each expense item for which such revenue offsets have been authorized. Memorandum accounts track revenue impacts due to catastrophic events, certain unforeseen water quality expenses related to new federal and state water quality standards, energy efficiency, water conservation during periods of mandated water restrictions, water tariffs and other approved activities or as directed by the CPUC. The purpose of balancing and memorandum accounts is to track the under-collection or over-collection associated with such expense changes and activities for future recovery or refund considerations. Carrying balances of the balancing and memo accounts earn a rate of return based on treasury rates.
On June 29, 2023, the CPUC approved Decision No. 23-06-025 authorized a rate of return of 7.28% based on a return on equity of 8.80%, cost of debt of 5.46%, and a capital structure of approximately 45% debt and 55% equity. The CPUC also authorized continuation of the WCCM in the same decision. The WCCM provided for an adjustment to SJWC’s return on equity and cost of debt if the average Moody’s Aa utility bond index rate between October 1, 2021 and September 30, 2022 varies by more than 100 basis points when compared to the same period from the prior year. The index rate difference between those periods increased 103 basis points, thereby triggering the WCCM. Accordingly, SJWC filed Advice Letter No. 601 on October 13, 2023, to inform the CPUC that the WCCM authorized in Decision No. 23-06-025 required an update to SJWC’s authorized rate of return effective January 1, 2024. The filing requested an adjusted equity of 10.01%, a cost of debt of 5.28%, and a resulting authorized rate of return of 7.86%. Advice Letter No. 601 was approved with an effective date of January 1, 2024. Separate from the filing, the return on equity was further adjusted by a 20-basis point reduction for reimplementation of the WCMA resulting in an overall rate of return of 7.75%.
The CPUC approved the settlement of 2022 General Rate Case on October 6, 2022 and issued Decision No. 22-10-005 (“2022 GRC Decision”) on October 11, 2022. SJWC received authority for an increase of revenue requirement by $25.1 million or 6.03% in 2022, $13.0 million or 2.94% in 2023, and $16.1 million or 3.56% in 2024. The application included requests to recover $18.2 million from balancing and memorandum accounts and authorization for a $350 million capital budget. Additionally, it further aligned authorized and actual consumption, particularly for business customers, addressed the water
supply mix variability, and provided greater revenue recovery in the fixed charge. The approved revenue increase for 2022 was effective retrospectively to January 1, 2022.
SJWC filed Advice Letter No. 585 on November 10, 2022, to recover $20.6 million in the Interim Rates Memorandum Account in accordance with the 2022 GRC Decision. Advice Letter No. 585 was approved with an effective date of January 1, 2023.
SJWC filed Advice Letter No. 586 on November 18, 2022, to increase the authorized revenue requirement by $18.4 million or 4% for the escalation year increase in accordance with the 2022 GRC Decision. Advice Letter No. 586 was approved with an effective date of January 1, 2023.
SJWC filed Advice Letter No. 590 on April 6, 2023, to recover a $14.2 million under-collection in its Monterey Water Revenue Adjustment (“MWRAM”) Account as of March 31, 2023. SJWC proposed that this amount be recovered via a 12-month volume surcharge. Advice Letter No. 590 was approved with an effective date of May 8, 2023.
SJWC filed Advice Letter No. 591 on April 11, 2023, to discontinue its drought allocation surcharges and move from Stage 3 to Stage 1 of its Schedule 14.1. Advice Letter No. 591 was approved with an effective date of April 11, 2023.
SJWC filed Advice Letter No. 592 on April 20, 2023, to continue its WCMA and Water Conservation Expense Memorandum Account under Santa Clara Valley Water District’s (“Valley Water”) voluntary call for 15% conservation. On October 2, 2023, Advice Letter No. 592 was approved with an effective date of April 20, 2023.
SJWC filed Advice Letter No. 596 on May 31, 2023, to increase the authorized revenue requirement by $27.6 million to offset the increases to purchased potable water charges, the groundwater extraction fee, and purchased recycled water charges from its water wholesalers effective July 1, 2023. Advice Letter No. 596 was approved with an effective date of July 1, 2023.
SJWC filed Advice Letter No. 603 on November 14, 2023, to establish a Group Insurance Balancing Account to track the difference between the company’s authorized versus actual costs for medical, dental, and opt-out insurance expenses. Advice Letter No. 603 was approved with an effective date of January 1, 2024.
SJWC filed Advice Letter No. 605 on November 21, 2023, to increase the authorized revenue requirement by $21.3 million or 4.16% for the attrition year increase in accordance with the 2022 GRC Decision. Advice Letter No. 605 was approved with an effective date of January 1, 2024.
On December 15, 2023, SJWC, along with three other California water utilities, filed a joint request for a one-year deferment on the cost of capital filings which would otherwise be due on May 1, 2024. Postponing the filing a year alleviates administrative processing costs on the utilities as well as the CPUC staff and provides relief for both CPUC and utility resources already strained by numerous other proceedings. The request was conditioned on leaving the current WCCM in place such that any adjustments will be made to the respective utilities cost of capital during the one-year deferment based on the mechanism. The request was approved on February 2, 2024. Based on the change in the average Moody’s Aa utility bond index rate between the 12 months ended September 30, 2023 and September 30, 2024, there is no adjustment to SJWC’s cost of capital for 2025.
On January 2, 2024, SJWC filed General Rate Case Application No. 24-01-001 with the CPUC to increase rates charged for water service by $55.2 million or 11.11% in 2025, by $22 million or 3.99% in 2026, and by $25.8 million or 4.49% in 2027. The application proposed a $540 million three-year capital budget and also included requests to recover $23.5 million from balancing and memorandum accounts, further alignment between actual and authorized usage, and a shift to greater revenue collection in the service charge. On June 14, 2024, SJWC notified the CPUC that it had reached an all-party settlement agreement in principle with the Public Advocates Office and Water Rate Advocates for Transparency, Equity and Sustainability, also known as WRATES, in its 2025 through 2027 general rate case application on all but two policy issues. WRATES later notified the CPUC that it would not join in the settlement agreement on August 13, 2024. Per the procedural ruling, the formal settlement motion and agreement between SJWC and the Public Advocates Office was submitted on August 19, 2024, and updated on September 27, 2024. The settlement agreement provides for rate increases of $21.3 million or 3.91% in 2025, $14.4 million or 2.55% in 2026, and $17.4 million or 2.98% in 2027. The settlement agreement also provides a three-year capital budget of $450 million and recovery of $15.8 million in memorandum and balancing accounts. Briefs on the two policy issues were also submitted on August 19, 2024. On December 19, 2024, the CPUC approved the settlement agreement, but denied SJWC’s request with respect to the two policy issues not resolved in the settlement agreement through Decision No. 24-12-077.
SJWC filed Advice Letter No. 609 on May 16, 2024, to increase the authorized revenue requirement by $28.3 million, or 5.3%, to offset the increases to purchased potable water charges, the groundwater extraction fee, and purchased recycled water charges from its water wholesalers effective July 1, 2024. Advice Letter No. 609 was approved with an effective date of July 1, 2024.
SJWC filed Advice Letter No. 610/610A on May 23, 2024, to increase the authorized revenue requirement by $0.8 million, or 0.14%, to recover revenue related to the plant additions for the Advanced Metering Infrastructure project. Advice Letter No. 610/610A was approved with an effective date of July 1, 2024.
On December 18, 2024, SJWC, along with three other California water utilities, filed a joint request for a one-year deferment on the cost of capital filings which would otherwise be due on May 1, 2025. Postponing the filing a year alleviates administrative processing costs on the utilities as well as the CPUC staff and provides relief for both CPUC and utility resources already strained by numerous other proceedings. The request was conditioned on leaving the current WCCM in place such that any adjustments will be made to the respective utilities cost of capital during the one-year deferment based on the mechanism. The request was approved on January 14, 2025.
SJWC filed Advice Letter No. 613 on December 20, 2024, to increase authorized revenue requirement by $21.3 million, or 3.91%, and implement new water rates and recover $15.8 million in memorandum and balancing accounts in accordance with Decision No. 24-12-077. This filing was approved with an effective date of January 1, 2025.
Connecticut Regulatory Affairs
CWC’s rates, service and other matters affecting its business are subject to regulation by the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority of Connecticut (“PURA”).
PURA allows the Connecticut regulated operations to add surcharges to customers’ bills in order to recover certain costs associated with approved eligible capital projects through the Water Infrastructure Conservation Adjustment (“WICA”) in between full rate cases, as well as approved surcharges or sur-credits for the Water Revenue Adjustment (“WRA”).
On January 26, 2023, CWC filed for a WICA increase of $3.3 million in annualized revenues for $27.8 million in completed projects. PURA approved CWC’s application on March 22, 2023.
On July 27, 2023, CWC filed for a WICA increase of $1.3 million in annualized revenues for $11.5 million in completed projects. PURA approved the application effective October 1, 2023.
On October 3, 2023, CWC filed an application with PURA in Connecticut to adjust customer rates. The proposal requested an increase in annual revenues of approximately $21.4 million, or 18.1%, over current authorized revenues. On June 28, 2024, PURA issued a final decision authorizing an increase in annual revenues of $6.5 million, or 5.5%, with the ability to earn additional revenue of $1.1 million through the annual WRA filing for achievement of certain performance metrics. In addition, the decision authorized a return on equity of 9.3% on a capital structure comprised of 53% equity and 47% long term debt. New rates became effective on July 1, 2024.
On November 14, 2023, CWC submitted an application to PURA for approval to issue unsecured notes in the amount of $25.0 million. A decision from PURA approving the application was received on January 10, 2024.
On February 26, 2024, CWC filed its 2023 WICA reconciliation with PURA. The reconciliation, approved by PURA on March 27, 2024 and effective for 12 months beginning April 1, 2024, replaced the expiring 2022 reconciliation credit of 0.16% with a credit of 0.13%. The cumulative WICA surcharge as of April 1, 2024 was 7.41%, collecting $7.8 million on an annual basis. In connection with the general rate case decision noted above, as of July 1, 2024, the base WICA surcharge was reset to zero; however, the credit of 0.13% for 2023 reconciliation will continue to apply into 2025.
On February 28, 2024, CWC filed its 2023 WRA. The mechanism reconciles 2023 revenues as authorized in the CWC’s most recent rate case. The 2023 WRA, as approved by PURA on March 11, 2024 and effective for 12 months beginning on April 1, 2024, imposed a 2.11% sur-credit on customer bills to refund the 2023 revenues over-collection.
On June 21, 2024, CWC submitted an application to PURA for the approval to issue unsecured notes in an amount of up to $150.0 million. PURA approved the application on August 14, 2024.
On July 26, 2024, CWC filed for a WICA increase of $4.3 million in annualized revenue for $41.9 million in completed infrastructure projects. PURA approved the application, and effective October 1, 2024, the cumulative WICA surcharge is 3.43%.
On January 28, 2025, CWC filed its 2024 WICA reconciliation with PURA. The reconciliation, if approved, would be effective for 12 months beginning April 1, 2025, replacing the expiring 2023 reconciliation credit of $0.1 million with a credit of $2.4 million on an annual basis. On January 28, 2025, CWC filed for a WICA increase of $1.6 million in annualized revenues for $15.7 million in completed projects. If approved, the cumulative WICA surcharge as of April 1, 2025, will be 4.90%, collecting $6.0 million on an annual basis.
On February 24, 2025, CWC filed its 2024 WRA. The mechanism reconciles 2024 revenues as authorized in the CWC’s most recent rate case as well as provides for recovery of certain amounts of executive compensation as the result of the achievement of performance metrics as prescribed by PURA. The 2024 WRA, if approved by PURA, will be effective for 12 months
beginning on April 1, 2025, and will impose a 3.62% surcharge on customer bills to collect the 2024 revenue shortfall.
Texas Regulatory Affairs
TWC’s rates are subject to the economic regulation of the Public Utilities Commission of Texas (“PUCT”). The PUCT may authorize rate increases after the filing of an Application for a Rate/Tariff Change. Rate cases may be filed as they become necessary, provided there is no current rate case outstanding. Furthermore, rate cases may not be filed more frequently than once every 12 months.
TWC has no current general rate case pending. However, it filed its application to establish a System Improvement Charge (“SIC”) with PUCT under Docket No. 54430 on December 30, 2022. SIC filings are used to include certain utility plant additions made from 2020 to present in its rate base, thereby increasing revenue and avoiding the immediate need for a general rate case. On March 21, 2024, the PUCT filed the final order approving TWC’s request to implement its SIC which applies to certain customers. As a result of this final order, the SIC is projected to increase TWC’s water revenue by $1.6 million and sewer revenue by $28 thousand within one year of the approval. On September 12, 2024, TWC filed its application to amend its SIC with the PUCT under Docket No. 56974. Its amended SIC will apply to all customers and seeks to increase its annual water revenue by $3.9 million and its annual sewer revenue by $0.2 million, in addition to the original SIC filed with the PUCT under Docket No. 54430 on December 30, 2022. On October 14, 2024, the PUCT notified TWC that the filing was administratively complete in order to establish a procedural schedule. TWC expects to receive the final approval from the PUCT in the first half of 2025. Additionally, TWC is required to file a general rate case on or before March 21, 2028. Notwithstanding any SIC filing, TWC will continue to file its annual adjustments for the Water Pass-through Charges (“WPC”) for Canyon Lake, Deer Creek, Kendall West, Clear Water Estates, and Saddleridge customers. All water supply cost increases are recoverable when the next annual WPC adjustment for each system is filed.
On April 10, 2023, TWC filed an application with the PUCT to acquire the Elm Ridge water system that serves 21 residential customers. TWC has asked to acquire the Elm Ridge customers using TWC’s existing rate. On December 12, 2023, the Administrative Law Judge filed Order No. 11, which allowed TWC to proceed and the acquisition closed on January 26, 2024. On July 23, 2024, the PUCT filed the final approval which allowed TWC to charge its existing rates to customers of Elm Ridge.
On July 24, 2023, the PUCT approved TWC's application to acquire KT Water Development Ltd. KT Water Development Ltd. provides service to approximately 570 residential water connections. On August 14, 2023, TWC closed on the acquisition. On March 7, 2024, the PUCT filed the final order which transferred the Certificate of Convenience and Necessity to TWC, approved the fair market value, and allowed TWC to charge its existing rates to the customers of KT Water Development.
On January 5, 2024, TWC filed an application with the PUCT to acquire the 3009 Water Company LLC water system that serves approximately 270 residential connections. TWC received the PUCT’s approval to proceed with the transaction. However, on February 24, 2025, TWC terminated the agreement since the seller was not able to meet the requirements of the related purchase and sale agreement.
Maine Regulatory Affairs
MWC’s rates, service and other matters affecting its business are subject to regulation by the MPUC. MPUC approves rates on a division-by-division basis in Maine and allows MWC to add surcharges to customers’ bills in order to recover certain costs associated with capital projects through the WISC in between general rate cases. Projects eligible for WISC surcharges include all infrastructure replacement or repair projects, excluding meters, that are necessary for the transmission, distribution or treatment of water.
The rates approved in the Biddeford Saco division by the April 5, 2022 stipulated agreement, which authorized a rate increase of $6.3 million, or 72.5% went into effect on July 1, 2022. The Saco River Drinking Water Resource Center began supplying the water distribution system on June 16, 2022. As part of the stipulated agreement, MWC agreed to file a final phase of the rate case by April 1, 2023. Step 3 of the planned multi-year rate filings for the Saco River Drinking Water Resource Center was filed in accordance with the MPUC order on March 31, 2023. The filing requested an increase in revenue requirement of $2.9 million or 19.9% and requested that the increase be implemented over two years with a 12% increase effective July 1, 2023 followed by a 9% increase effective July 1, 2024 with a slight decrease in year three to reach the overall 19.9% requested. On August 25, 2023, the MPUC issued an order granting a temporary rate increase of $1.5 million or 10% while the case and the company’s full request are litigated. The company reached a settlement agreement with MPUC and the Office of the Public Advocate and filed a stipulated settlement agreement with the MPUC on December 22, 2023. The commission approved the stipulation in deliberations on January 5, 2024 with a rate effective date of January 1, 2024. The approved stipulation authorizes an increase in rates of $2.6 million or 17.6%. The Biddeford and Saco division’s increase in rates is based on an authorized return on equity of 9.5% along with a capital structure of 49% debt and 51% equity. This return on equity and capital structure will be used for any future WISC calculations for all divisions until the MPUC has authorized or approved a different return on equity structure in a different proceeding.
During the year ended December 31, 2024, MPUC issued orders approving surcharges for the Camden-Rockland, Freeport, Oakland and Millinocket divisions that in aggregate represent annual revenue increases of $0.3 million.
On October 25, 2024, MWC filed an application with MPUC to adjust customer rates in the Camden Rockland division. The proposal requested an increase in annual revenues of approximately $1.1 million, or 15.9%, over current authorized revenues. A decision is expected in the second quarter of 2025.
On December 31, 2024, MWC filed for a unified tariff across its 10 separate rate divisions. A decision in this case is expected in the fourth quarter of 2025.
Please also see Item 1A, “Risk Factors,” Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” and Note 3 of “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.” Description of Business
General
The principal business of SJW Group consists of the production, purchase, storage, purification, distribution, wholesale and retail sale of water and wastewater services. SJWC provides water services to approximately 232,000 connections that serve approximately one million people over 140 square miles residing in portions of the cities of San Jose and Cupertino and in the cities of Campbell, Monte Sereno, Saratoga and in the Town of Los Gatos, and adjacent unincorporated territories, all in the County of Santa Clara in the State of California. The CTWS companies provide water service to approximately 142,000 service connections that serve a population of approximately 463,000 people in 81 municipalities with a service area of approximately 275 square miles throughout Connecticut and Maine and approximately 3,000 wastewater connections in Southbury, Connecticut. TWC provides water service to approximately 29,000 service connections that serve approximately 88,000 people in a service area comprising more than 271 square miles in the region between San Antonio and Austin, Texas and approximately 1,000 wastewater connections. Together, the Water Utility Services distribute water to customers in their respective service areas in accordance with accepted water utility methods. Water Utility Services also provide non-tariffed services under agreements with municipalities and other utilities. These non-tariffed services include water system operations, maintenance agreements and antenna site leases.
SJWC operates the Cupertino municipal water system under a service concession arrangement. The system is adjacent to the SJWC service area and has approximately 4,700 service connections. The original agreement commenced in October 1997 and expired on September 30, 2024. Effective October 2024, SJWC entered into a new 12-year agreement with Cupertino subject to an additional term of eight years if agreed to by the parties. SJWC paid an upfront concession fee of $22.1 million in 2024 and agreed to pay, beginning in 2024, an annual investment rent of $1.8 million, subject to adjustment each year based on a specified construction cost index. Under the terms of the agreement, SJWC assumes responsibility for all maintenance and operating costs of the system, while receiving all payments for water service.
CTWS provides contracted services to water utilities, as well as offers Linebacker® protection plans for public drinking water customers in the states of Connecticut and Maine. Linebacker plans cover a limited amount of the cost of repairs to water and wastewater service lines and in-home plumbing. Services provided are dependent on the selected plan.
SJW Land Company owns undeveloped real estate property in California. SJW Land Company previously owned commercial and warehouse properties in Tennessee, which were sold in 2024. Chester Realty, Inc. owns commercial properties and parcels of land in Connecticut.
Among other things, operating results from the water business fluctuate according to the demand for water, which is often influenced by seasonal conditions, such as impact of drought, summer temperatures or the amount and timing of precipitation in Water Utility Services’ service areas. Revenue, production expenses and income are affected by changes in water sales and the sources of water supply. Overhead costs, such as payroll and benefits, depreciation, interest on long-term debt, and property taxes are not significantly impacted by seasonality or water supply mix. Generally, earnings are highest in the higher demand, warm summer months and lowest in the lower demand, cool winter months. Certain regulatory mechanisms in our service areas may mitigate the effects of demand fluctuations and/or variations in water supply costs on our operating results.
Water Supply
California Water Supply
SJWC’s water supply consists of groundwater from wells, surface water from watershed run-off and diversion, reclaimed water, and imported water purchased from Valley Water under the terms of a master contract with Valley Water expiring in 2051. During normal rainfall years, purchased water provides approximately 40% to 50% of SJWC’s annual production. An additional 40% to 50% of its water supply is pumped from the underground basin which is subject to a groundwater extraction charge paid to Valley Water. Surface supply, which during a normal rainfall year satisfies about 6% to 8% of SJWC’s annual
water supply needs, provides approximately 1% of its water supply in a dry year and approximately 14% in a wet year. In dry years, the decrease in water from surface run-off and diversion and the corresponding increase in purchased and pumped water increases production expenses substantially. The opposite is also true where water production expenses decrease in wet years. In both instances, the impacts of surface water, purchased water, groundwater extraction, and purchased power expenses are tracked in SJWC’s Full Cost Balancing Account (“FCBA”) authorized by the CPUC for cost recovery.
The pumps and motors at SJWC’s groundwater production facilities are propelled by electric power. SJWC has installed standby power generators at 38 of its strategic water production sites and manages a fleet of 22 portable generators deployed throughout the distribution system for power outages at remaining pumping facilities. In addition, the commercial office and operations control centers are outfitted with standby power equipment that allow critical distribution and customer service operations to continue during a power outage. Valley Water has informed SJWC that its filter plants, which deliver purchased water to SJWC, are also equipped with standby generators. In the event of a power outage, SJWC believes it will be able to prevent an interruption of service to customers for a limited period by pumping water using generator power and by using purchased water from Valley Water.
In 2024, the level of water in the Santa Clara Valley groundwater basin, which is managed by Valley Water, experienced a decrease in most areas due to a decrease in managed recharge operations and a decline in natural recharge associated with less rainfall compared to 2023. As reported by Valley Water at the end of 2024, the groundwater level in the Santa Clara Plain was eight feet lower compared to the same time in 2023. The total groundwater storage at the end of 2024 was within Stage 1 (Normal) of the Valley Water’s Water Shortage Contingency Plan. On January 1, 2025, Valley Water’s 10 reservoirs were 51% of restricted capacity with 10.4 billion gallons of water in storage. As of December 31, 2024, SJWC’s Lake Elsman was 54.2% of capacity with 1.1 billion gallons of water, approximately 145.6% of the five-year seasonal average. In addition, the rainfall at SJWC’s Lake Elsman was measured at 15.11 inches for the period from July 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024, which is 79.2% of the five-year average. SJWC’s Montevina Water Treatment Plant treated 3.3 billion gallons of water in 2024, which is 132.2% of the five-year average. SJWC’s Saratoga Water Treatment Plant remained offline in 2024 for regulatory improvements. SJWC believes that its various sources of water supply will be sufficient to meet customer demand in 2025.
California faces long-term water supply challenges. SJWC actively works with Valley Water to meet the challenges by continuing to educate customers on responsible water use practices and conducting long-range water supply planning. Valley Water's 15% voluntary call for conservation and certain watering and water waste rules established in 2023, are still in place for 2025. The call for continued conservation is due to a major storage reservoir currently offline for seismic retrofits.
Connecticut Water Supply
CWC’s water sources vary among the individual systems, but overall, approximately 60% of the total dependable yield comes from surface water supplies and 40% from wells. In addition, CWC has water supply agreements to supplement its water supply with the South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority (“RWA”) and The Metropolitan District (“MDC”) that expire 2058 and 2053, respectively. CWC believes that it will be able to meet customer demand for 2025 with its existing water supply which consists of groundwater from wells, surface water in reservoirs and purchased water treated by neighboring water utilities.
Texas Water Supply
TWC’s water supply consists of groundwater from wells and purchased treated and raw water from the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority (“GBRA”). TWC has long-term agreements with the GBRA, which expire in 2037, 2040, 2044 and 2050, respectively. The agreements, which are take-or-pay contracts, provide TWC with an aggregate of 7,602 acre-feet of water per year from Canyon Lake at prices that may be adjusted periodically by GBRA. TWC also has raw water supply agreements with the Lower Colorado River Authority (“LCRA”) and West Travis County Public Utility Agency (“WTCPUA”) expiring in 2059 and 2046, respectively, to provide for 350 acre-feet of water per year from Lake Austin and the Colorado River, respectively, at prices that may be adjusted periodically by the agencies. Forty active production wells located in a Comal Trinity Groundwater Conservation District, a regulated portion of the Trinity aquifer, are charged a groundwater pump tax based upon usage. TWC expects to meet customer demand for 2025 with TWC’s water supply which consists of groundwater from wells, surface water and purchased treated and raw water from the GBRA, based on current conditions.
In August 2023, SJWTX Holdings Inc.’s unregulated subsidiary, TWR, acquired eight wells and the associated water rights of KT Water Resources LLC (“KTR”). During the third quarter of 2024, TWC purchased these assets from TWR for use in utility operations. Accordingly, SJW Group reclassified $28.4 million related to indefinite-lived water rights from other intangible assets to utility plant intangible assets and $11.7 million from nonutility property to utility plant. These wells have been projected to yield an additional 6,000 acre-feet per year or more. Development of the KT Water System continues.
The Texas service area is currently experiencing drought conditions that result in water usage restrictions for customers. Significant future capital investment of transmission main and storage facilities in addition to developing additional supply sources is planned for 2025 and beyond.
Maine Water Supply
Water sources at MWC vary among the individual systems, but overall, approximately 90% of the total dependable yield comes from surface water supplies and 10% from wells. MWC has a water supply agreement with the Kennebec Water District expiring in 2040. MWC believes that it will be able to meet customer demand for 2025 with its existing water supply which consists of groundwater from wells, surface water in reservoirs and purchased water treated by neighboring water utilities.
MWC relies on legislatively granted water rights in order to serve customers. In some instances, these rights were granted to predecessor water companies specially chartered by the Maine legislature many decades ago, with those entities later having been merged into MWC. The legislation incorporating these predecessor water companies did not address whether chartered rights may be transferred to another entity without special legislative action. The Maine Business Corporation Act generally provides that property and contract rights of a merged corporation are vested in the surviving corporation without reversion or impairment. In the MPUC proceedings that approved the mergers of these MWC predecessor companies, the survivorship of water rights was not contested.
Please also see further discussion under Item 1A, “Risk Factors” and Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.” Franchises
Franchises granted by local jurisdictions permit Water Utility Services to construct, maintain, and operate water distribution systems within the streets and other public properties of a given jurisdiction.
SJWC holds the necessary franchises to provide water in portions of the cities of San Jose and Cupertino and in the cities of Campbell, Monte Sereno and Saratoga, the Town of Los Gatos and the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County. None of the franchises have a termination date, other than the franchise for the unincorporated areas of Santa Clara County, which terminates in 2035.
CWC’s utility services hold the necessary franchises to provide water in portions of the towns of Ashford, Avon, Beacon Falls, Bethany, Bolton, Brooklyn, Burlington, Canton, Chester, Clinton, Colchester, Columbia, Coventry, Deep River, Durham, East Granby, East Haddam, East Hampton, East Windsor, Ellington, Enfield, Essex, Farmington, Griswold, Guilford, Haddam, Hebron, Killingly, Killingworth, Lebanon, Madison, Manchester, Mansfield, Marlborough, Middlebury, Naugatuck, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, Oxford, Plainfield, Plymouth, Portland, Prospect, Simsbury, Somers, Southbury, South Windsor, Stafford, Stonington, Suffield, Thomaston, Thompson, Tolland, Vernon, Voluntown, Waterbury, Westbrook, Willington, Windsor Locks and Woodstock. Additionally, the Heritage Village Water division serves the Town of Southbury with wastewater services. None of the franchises of the CWC utility services have a termination date.
MWC holds franchises necessary to provide water services in the towns served which are Biddeford, Saco, Old Orchard Beach, Scarborough (Pine Point), Porter, Parsonsfield, Hiram, Freeport, Camden, Rockland, Rockport, Owls Head, Union, Thomaston, Warren, Bucksport, Skowhegan, Oakland, Hartland, Millinocket and Greenville. None of the franchises with MWC have a termination date.
TWC holds the franchises necessary to provide water and wastewater services to the City of Bulverde and the City of Spring Branch, which terminate in 2029 and 2036, respectively. The unincorporated areas that TWC serves in Comal, Blanco, Bandera, Hays, Kendall, Medina and Travis Counties do not require water service providers to obtain franchises.
Seasonal Factors
Water sales are seasonal in nature and influenced by weather conditions. The timing of precipitation and climatic conditions can cause seasonal water consumption by customers to vary significantly. Demand for water is generally lower during the cooler and rainy winter months. Demand increases in the spring when the temperature rises and rain diminishes.
Competition
The regulated operations of Water Utility Services are public utilities regulated by applicable state public utility commissions and operate within service areas approved by such regulators. Statutory laws provide that no other investor-owned public utility may operate in the service area of another public utility of the same class (e.g., another water utility) without first obtaining from the regulator a certificate of public convenience and necessity or similar authorization. Experience shows such a certificate will be issued only after demonstrating that service in such area is inadequate.
The laws of the states in which Water Utility Services provide regulated services generally provide that municipalities, water districts, and/or other public agencies of state governments (each, a “Public Agency”) are authorized to engage in the ownership and operation of water systems. Such Public Agencies are empowered, under certain circumstances, to condemn properties, and/or exercise the right of eminent domain on property operated by privately owned public utilities, upon payment of just
compensation. Furthermore, under California law, Public Agencies are authorized to issue bonds (including revenue bonds) for the purpose of acquiring or constructing water systems.
Under Connecticut law, any condemnation of water utility property by a Public Agency requires the approval of the PURA and under current Texas case law, a Public Agency may not exercise that right of eminent domain to take the entire operation of an investor-owned utility.
To the company’s knowledge, no Public Agency has any pending proceeding to condemn any part of its existing water systems, nor to exercise any eminent domain proceeding to take any of its property or operations.
Environmental Matters
Water Utility Services produces potable water and generates wastewater and hazardous wastes in accordance with all applicable county, state and federal environmental rules and regulations. Additionally, public utilities are subject to environmental regulation by various other state and local governmental authorities.
Water Utility Services is currently in compliance with all of the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s (the “EPA”) surface water treatment performance standards, drinking water standards for disinfection by-products and primary maximum contaminant levels. These standards have been adopted and are enforced by the applicable state water, public health and environmental agencies.
Other state and local environmental regulations apply to our Water Utility Services’ operations and facilities. These regulations relate primarily to the handling, storage and disposal of hazardous materials and discharges to the environment, including wastewater operations in the States of Connecticut and Texas. In 2016, SJWC began performing hazardous materials site assessments and remediation prior to the construction phase of capital projects. The site assessments are performed to remove any legacy materials and to obtain site closures from the Santa Clara County Department of Environmental Health under its Voluntary Cleanup Program.
In April 2024, the EPA issued new national primary drinking water regulations for six PFAS. The regulations impose maximum contaminant levels and monitoring requirements for the nation’s water systems for six PFAS chemicals under the Safe Drinking Water Act. The final regulation requires water systems to comply with PFAS monitoring and reporting requirements by 2027, and to comply with the maximum contaminant levels by 2029. SJW Group estimates capital expenditures of approximately $300 million for PFAS treatment based on finalized maximum contaminant levels.
Water Utility Services is currently in compliance with all state and local public health and environmental regulations applicable to their operations.
Please also see Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.” Human Capital Resources
In order to continue to achieve SJW Group’s mission of delivering life sustaining, high-quality water and exceptional service to families, businesses and communities, we are committed to attract, retain and develop the highest quality talent. We believe our employees are our most important asset. Throughout our organization, our employees embrace the company’s values of teamwork and respect, straight talk and transparency, integrity and trust, and service and compassion in everything we do. Employees participate in semi-annual employee engagement and satisfaction surveys providing feedback that enables the company to continually assess and implement initiatives to enhance employee satisfaction and retention. Through our board and its committees, we are empowered to address factors that impact our employee strategy and drive positive change in our company and our communities. Our human capital measures and objectives focus on providing a safe and productive work environment that has clear positive and ethical values; a culture that encourages high performance, respect for each other, and celebrates diversity; jobs that offer fair wages as benchmarked to the markets that we live and work in; competitive wages and benefits; and training and development opportunities that support our employees to establish and succeed in meaningful careers at SJW Group.
Basic Workforce Data
As of December 31, 2024, SJW Group had 822 full-time employees, of whom 395 were SJWC employees, 244 were CWC employees, 99 were TWC employees, and 84 were MWC employees. At SJWC, 241 employees are members of unions. Employees working for CWC, MWC and TWC are not represented by unions.
In the first quarter of 2023, SJWC executed three-year bargaining agreements with the International Union of Operating Engineers (“OE”), representing certain employees in the engineering department, and the Utility Workers of America (“UWUA”), representing the majority of all non-administrative employees at SJWC covering the period from January 1, 2023
through December 31, 2025. The agreements include a 6% wage increase provided in 2023, 3.5% in 2024 and 5.5% in 2025 for the union employees.
Employee Safety
Aiming for a “zero-harm” culture, our vision is to manage health and safety performance to become a leader in the water services industry. Protecting the health and safety of our employees is a top priority. Our employee health and safety programs, focus on four core elements:
•Safety Leadership: demonstrating management commitment and support, empowering local teams to be accountable for safety;
•Participation: involving every employee in all aspects of the safety program, connecting safety initiatives to serving employees, customers, shareholders, our communities and the environment;
•Hazard Identification and Control: inspecting workplaces, identifying hazards, implementing controls, and partnering with the front-line teams responsible for delivering reliable, clean, safe drinking water and service; and,
•Training: training employees on hazards and how to protect themselves. Incident and crisis management of both known and unknown threats to employee health and safety are anticipated and planned for by our safety team.
We have specific targets that set the trajectory of our safety program to ensure continuous improvement, including:
•Implement processes and systems to track, monitor, report and continually improve health and safety performance;
•Communicate the updated Health and Safety Policy to employees to promote compliance, consultation, and participation of workers on health and safety matters; and
•Strive for zero accidents and injuries.
We have implemented several management systems to plan and respond to workplace safety and training as well as incidents such as pandemics, wildfires, earthquakes, cyber threats and extreme weather, among others. The goal is to safeguard our employees’ health and safety during local, national, or global incidents. Locally, workplace hazards are identified by onsite inspections and from near-miss investigations. More broadly, the team collaborates to anticipate and plan for external events such as a pandemic or for extreme weather or other external events that could impact our operations. Proactive identification of hazards keeps us one step ahead of our constantly changing workplace conditions.
Engagement and Satisfaction
SJW Group has invested significantly in employee engagement and satisfaction in alignment with its values and five building blocks of Community, Customers, Employees, Environment and Shareholders. Employees across SJW Group identified and adopted four sets of core values to guide their work and interactions: integrity and trust, compassion and service, straight talk and transparency, and respect and teamwork. Our leadership employs a servant leadership model where all leaders are encouraged and expected to provide service to their people ensuring that they continue to grow and thrive in their profession, knowledge, and general well-being. Regular “Straight Talk” meetings, employee town halls and quarterly “Leadership on Tap” gatherings are held to continue to build and support our culture and values. Additionally, the company provides ongoing opportunities for employee recognition from peers and leaders and also administers an employee engagement and satisfaction survey twice per year.
Community Involvement
In support of our mission as trusted, passionate and socially responsible professionals, we are dedicated to the people and the environment of the communities where we live, work, and serve. SJW Group provides various opportunities for our employees to participate in outreach programs from free virtual education programs for adults, employee-led courses for elementary school aged children, winter coat donation drives, environmental cleanups, community events, and grant programs supporting schools and fire departments. The Force for Good Foundation, established in 2024, is a non-consolidated not-for-profit corporation funded by SJW Group that plans to make contributions to selected charitable organizations with a focus on the communities served. SJWC and CWC also have matching donations for certain programs to further promote our employees’ involvement in their communities. In California, the SJWC Employees Community Fund is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that uses funds from employee contributions and company matches to provide grants to non-profit organizations supported by our employees.
Fair Wages and Competitive Benefits
SJW Group’s future success is largely dependent upon our ability to attract and retain highly skilled and qualified employees. Our California and Connecticut subsidiaries operate in particularly competitive labor markets; we believe our compensation
package and benefit programs allow us to recruit and retain talented and qualified personnel. Our compensation and benefits programs include:
•Fair employee wages as benchmarked to the markets that our employees live and work in that are consistent with employee roles and responsibilities, skill levels, experience, and knowledge;
•Engagement of nationally, recognized outside compensation and benefits consulting firms to independently evaluate the appropriateness and effectiveness of compensation for our executive and other officers and to provide benchmarks for executive compensation as compared to peer companies;
•Short-term incentive compensation for management level staff aligning with company financial and operational goals targeted to our stakeholders: customers, communities, employees, and stockholders;
•Alignment with stockholder value by utilizing equity awards linked to investment performance over time, as well as certain absolute financial results;
•A comprehensive annual employee performance review process pursuant to which we determine and communicate to employees annual merit increases, promotions and other changes to responsibilities and duties; and
•Eligibility for all employees to participate in health insurance, dental, vision, cafeteria plans, life and disability/accident coverage, retirement plans and/or salary deferral plans, an employee stock purchase plan, paid and unpaid leaves, a commuter assistance program, professional education and training, and tuition assistance.
Executive Officers of the Registrant
The following table summarizes the name, age, offices held and business experience for each of our executive officers, as of February 27, 2025:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Name | Age | | Offices and Experience |
| Willie Brown | 57 | | SJW Group—Vice President and General Counsel. Mr. Brown serves as Vice President and General Counsel of SJW Group and SJWC since June 2021. Mr. Brown served as Corporate Secretary of SJW Group and SJWC from January 2020 to October 2023. Mr. Brown served as Assistant General Counsel of SJW Group and SJWC from January 2020 to June 2021. From April 2018 to October 2023, Mr. Brown served as counsel and Corporate Secretary of various subsidiaries of the Corporation. Since joining SJWC in 2008, Mr. Brown has held various legal positions of increasing scope and responsibly. Prior to joining SJWC, Mr. Brown was an associate at two Silicon Valley law firms and is a member of the State Bar of California. |
| Douwe Busschops | 44 | | SJW Group—Chief Information Officer. Mr. Busschops serves as Chief Information Officer of SJW Group, SJWC, and CWC since December 2024. Previously, Mr. Busschops served as Vice President and Chief Information Officer for the Municipal Water division of Veolia North America from 2022 to 2024. Prior to this, Mr. Busschops held senior roles at SUEZ Water North America since 2013, including Vice President of Customer Experience. Mr. Busschops served as the Chairman of the Customer Experience Committee for the National Association of Water Companies from 2020 to 2021. |
| Bruce A. Hauk | 54 | | SJW Group—Chief Operating Officer. Mr. Hauk serves as the Chief Operating Officer of SJW Group, SJWC, CTWS, and TWC since January 2023 and was the Chief Corporate Development and Strategy Officer of SJW Group, SJWC, CTWS, and TWC from August 2022 to December 2022. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Hauk was the President of NextEra Water from May 2021 to August 2022. Prior to joining NextEra, Mr. Hauk served in several roles at American Water Works Company, Inc. from May 2011 to March 2021, lastly serving as President of Regulated Operations and Military Services Group and then as Deputy Chief Operating Officer. Previously, Mr. Hauk served as Deputy Mayor/Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Westfield, Indiana and as Town Manager/Director of Public Works for the City of Westfield, Indiana. |
| Kristen A. Johnson | 58 | | SJW Group—Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer. Ms. Johnson serves as Senior Vice President since November 2022 and Chief Administrative Officer of SJW Group, since April 2020. Ms. Johnson also serves as Senior Vice President of Administration for CTWS and certain of its subsidiaries since November 2019. Ms. Johnson also serves as Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer of SJWC and TWC, and as Senior Vice President of Administration for CWC and MWC, since April 2023. Previously, Ms. Johnson served as Director of Human Resources, Vice President of Human Resources and Vice President and Corporate Secretary of CTWS and its subsidiaries from 2007, 2008, and 2010, respectively. She served as the Corporate Secretary of The Maine Water Company until July 2020. |
| Tanya Moniz-Witten | 53 | | SJWC—President. Ms. Moniz-Witten serves as President of SJWC since March 2024. Prior to joining SJWC, Ms. Moniz-Witten served as the Vice President, Electric Distribution Field Operations (New England) of National Grid from January 2021 to March 2024. Prior to joining National Grid, Ms. Moniz-Witten served in various roles at Pacific Gas and Electric Company, including up to Senior Director of Electric Distribution Field Operations (Bay / Central Region) from October 2019 to January 2021. |
| Craig J. Patla | 57 | | CTWS—President. Mr. Patla serves as President of CTWS and its subsidiaries, except The Maine Water Company, since January 2023. From April 2014 to December 2022, Mr. Patla was Vice President of Service Delivery. From 2011 to 2014, Mr. Patla was Director of Service Delivery. From 2008 to 2011, Mr. Patla was Manager of Service Delivery. From 2004 to 2008, Mr. Patla was Region Manager. Mr. Patla joined CTWS in 1990 as an engineer. |
| Eric W. Thornburg | 64 | | SJW Group—President, Chief Executive Officer and Chair of the Board. Mr. Thornburg serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of SJW Group and SJW Land Company, and Chief Executive Officer of SJWC and TWC since November 2017. Mr. Thornburg serves as Chair of the Board of Directors of SJW Group, SJWC, SJW Land Company, and TWC since April 2018, and Chair of the Board of Directors of SJWNE LLC, and CTWS and its subsidiaries since October 2019. Prior to joining SJW Group, Mr. Thornburg served as President and Chief Executive Officer of CTWS from 2006 until 2017, and Chair of the Board of CTWS from 2008 to 2017. Mr. Thornburg served as President of Missouri-American Water, a subsidiary of American Water Works Corporation from 2000 to 2004. From July 2004 to January 2006, Mr. Thornburg served as Central Region Vice President-External Affairs for American Water Works Corporation. |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Andrew F. Walters | 54 | | SJW Group—Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer. Mr. Walters serves as Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of SJW Group, SJWC, SJW Land Company, and TWC since January 2022. Mr. Walters also serves as Chief Financial Officer of CTWS and its subsidiaries since April 2023. Mr. Walters served as Chief Corporate Development Officer and Integration Executive of SJW Group from November 2019 until January 2022, and previously served as Chief Administrative Officer of SJWC from January 2014 until January 2019. Mr. Walters also served as the Vice President of Business Planning of CWC and CTWS from November 2019 until January 2022. Prior to joining SJWC in 2014, Mr. Walters was a managing director and a senior acquisitions officer in the Infrastructure Investments Group of JP Morgan Asset Management from January 2009 to June 2013. Prior to this, Mr. Walters served in the Investment Banking Division of Citigroup as managing director and head of infrastructure for the Americas and in other roles focused on mergers and acquisitions and capital raising for clients, since 1993. |
Principal Accounting Officer of the Registrant
The following table summarizes the name, age, offices held and business experience for our principal accounting officer, as of February 27, 2025:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Name | Age | | Offices and Experience |
| Ann P. Kelly | 54 | | SJW Group—Chief Accounting Officer, Principal Accounting Officer. Ms. Kelly serves as Chief Accounting Officer and Principal Accounting Officer of SJW Group, and Chief Accounting Officer of SJWC, CTWS, TWC, CWC, and MWC since November 2024. Prior to joining SJW Group, Ms. Kelly was Executive Vice President Finance and Chief Financial Officer of American Electric Power (“AEP”) from November 2022 to September 2023, one of the nation’s largest pure play electric companies. From December 2014 to November 2022, Ms. Kelly served in various roles of increasing responsibility at UGI Corporation and its subsidiaries, a natural gas, propane, and electric power distribution company. Ms. Kelly also previously served as Vice President Finance and Chief Financial Officer, AmeriGas Propane, a UGI subsidiary. |
Available Information
SJW Group’s Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to these reports, are made available free of charge through SJW Group’s website at http://www.sjwgroup.com, as soon as reasonably practicable, after SJW Group electronically files such material with, or furnishes such materials to, the SEC. The content of SJW Group’s website is not incorporated by reference to or part of this report.
You may obtain electronic copies of our reports filed with the SEC on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov.
Item 1A.Risk Factors
Investors should carefully consider the following risk factors and warnings before making an investment decision. The risks described below are not the only ones facing SJW Group and its subsidiaries. Additional risks that SJW Group and its subsidiaries does not yet know of or that it currently thinks are immaterial may also impair its business operations. If any of the following risks actually occur, SJW Group and its subsidiaries’ business, operating results or financial condition could be materially affected. In such case, the trading price of SJW Group’s common stock could decline and you may lose part or all of your investment. Investors should also refer to the other information set forth in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, including the consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto.
Risks Relating To Regulatory and Legal Matters
Our business is regulated and may be adversely affected by changes to the regulatory environment.
Our Water Utility Services primarily represent the tariffed operations of our regulated utilities. Our operating revenue is generated primarily from the sale of water at rates authorized by applicable state public utility commissions (the “Regulators”). The Regulators set rates that are intended to provide revenues sufficient to recover normal operating expenses, provide funds for replacement of water infrastructure and produce a fair and reasonable return on stockholder common equity. Please refer to Part I, Item 1, “Regulation and Rates” for a discussion of the most recent regulatory proceedings affecting the rates of our regulated operations. Consequently, our revenue and operating results depend substantially upon the rates the Regulators authorize.
In our applications for rate approvals, we rely upon estimates and forecasts to propose rates for approval by the Regulators. No assurance can be given that our estimates and forecasts will be accurate or that the Regulators will agree with our estimates and forecasts and approve our proposed rates. To the extent our authorized rates may be too low, revenues may be insufficient to
cover Water Utility Services’ operating expenses, capital requirements and SJW Group’s historical dividend rate. In addition, delays in approving rate increases may negatively affect our operating results and operating cash flows.
In addition, policies and regulations promulgated by the Regulators govern the recovery of capital expenditures, the treatment of gains from the sale of real utility property, the offset of production and operating costs, the recovery of the cost of debt, the optimal equity structure, and the financial and operational flexibility to engage in non-tariffed operations. If the regulators implement policies and regulations that will not allow Water Utility Services to accomplish some or all of the items listed above, its future operating results may be adversely affected. Furthermore, from time to time, the commissioners at the Regulators may change. Such changes could lead to changes in policies and regulations and there can be no assurance that the resulting changes in policies and regulation, if any, will not adversely affect our operating results or financial condition.
We have various regulatory mechanisms such as balancing and memorandum accounts and rate adjustment mechanisms for infrastructure replacement, to recover certain costs and expenses. If the Regulators disagree with our calculations of our balancing and memorandum accounts, we may be required to make adjustments that could adversely affect our results of operations. Furthermore, there is no guarantee that the Regulators will approve our applications to recover all or a portion of our capital expenditure or infrastructure investment through such rate adjustment mechanisms, and their failure to do so will adversely affect our financial conditions and results of operations.
Recovery of regulatory assets is subject to adjustment by regulatory agencies and could impact the operating results of Water Utility Services.
Generally accepted accounting principles for water utilities include the recognition of regulatory assets and liabilities to reflect the actions of regulators as permitted by Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) ASC Topic 980—“Regulated Operations.” These actions may result in the recognition of revenues and expenses in time periods that are different from non-rate-regulated enterprises. In accordance with ASC Topic 980, Water Utility Services record deferred costs on the balance sheet as regulatory assets when it is probable that these costs will be recovered in the ratemaking process. Also, Water Utility Services record regulatory liabilities for amounts expected to be refunded to customers in the ratemaking process and for amounts collected in advance of the related expenditures. Please refer to Note 3 of the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for a summary of regulatory assets and liabilities. If the assessment of the probability of recovery in the ratemaking process is incorrect and the applicable ratemaking body determines that a deferred cost is not recoverable through future rate increases, the regulatory assets would need to be adjusted, which could have an adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition. Water Utility Services is subject to litigation risks concerning water quality and contamination.
In October 2023, CWC, a subsidiary of SJW Group in our Water Utility Services segment, was named as a defendant in a class action lawsuit alleging that the water provided by CWC contained contaminants. CWC is vigorously defending itself in this lawsuit. There can be no guarantee that additional lawsuits will not occur in the future. Any environmental or product-related lawsuit, including the class action against CWC, may require us to incur significant legal costs and we may not be able to recover the legal costs from ratepayers or other third parties. Although Water Utility Services has liability insurance coverage for bodily injury and property damage, pollution liability is excluded from this coverage and our excess liability coverage. Pollution liability coverage is in place for the majority of the SJW Group locations and operations but is subject to exclusions and limitations. In addition, any complaints or lawsuits against us based on water quality and contamination may receive negative publicity that can damage our reputation and adversely affect our business and trading price of our common stock.
Water Utility Services is subject to possible litigation or regulatory enforcement action concerning water discharges to Waters of the United States (“WOTUS”).
Regulatory actions and fines related to discharges of water to WOTUS against other water utilities have increased in frequency in recent years. If Water Utility Services is subject to a litigation or regulatory enforcement action, it might incur significant costs in fines and restoration efforts, and it is uncertain whether Water Utility Services would be able to recover some or all of such costs from ratepayers or other third parties. In addition, any litigation or regulatory enforcement action against us regarding a water discharge and/or resulting environmental impact may receive negative publicity that can damage our reputation and adversely affect our business and the trading price of our common stock.
Streamflow regulations in Connecticut could potentially impact our ability to serve our customers.
In December 2011, regulations concerning the flow of water in Connecticut’s rivers and streams were adopted. As promulgated, the regulations require that certain downstream releases be made from seven of CWC’s eighteen active reservoirs no later than ten years following the adoption of stream classifications by the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection
(“DEEP”). Currently, downstream releases are made at four locations. The next streamflow releases will be initiated by February 2028 and will affect two additional reservoirs. No groundwater supply wells are affected by the regulations.
DEEP has finalized stream classifications in all areas of Connecticut where CWC maintains and operates sources of supply. The Company remains engaged in the process in order to minimize the impact to our available water supply. Although modified from prior versions, the regulations still have the potential to lower our safe yield, raise our capital and operating expenses and adversely affect our revenues and earnings. Although costs associated with the regulations may be recovered in the form of higher rates and Connecticut law allows for a WICA surcharge to recover capital improvement costs necessary to achieve compliance with the regulations, there can be no assurance PURA would approve rate increases to enable us to recover all such costs and surcharges.
New or more stringent environmental regulations could increase Water Utility Services’ operating costs and affect its business.
Water Utility Services is subject to water quality and pollution control regulations issued by the EPA and environmental laws and regulations administered by the respective states and local regulatory agencies.
New or more stringent environmental and water quality regulations could increase Water Utility Services’ water quality compliance costs, hamper Water Utility Services’ available water supplies, and increase future capital expenditures.
Under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act, Water Utility Services is subject to regulation by the EPA relating to the quality of water it sells and treatment techniques it uses to make the water potable. The EPA promulgates, from time to time, nationally applicable standards, including maximum contaminant levels for drinking water. For example, in April 2024, the EPA issued new national primary drinking water regulations for PFAS. The regulations impose maximum contaminant levels and monitoring requirements for the nation’s water system for six PFAS chemicals under the Safe Drinking Water Act. The final regulation requires water systems to comply with PFAS monitoring requirements by 2027, and to comply with the maximum contaminant levels by 2029. Additional or more stringent requirements may be adopted by each state. There can be no assurance that Water Utility Services will be able to continue to comply with all water quality requirements.
Water Utility Services has implemented monitoring activities and installed specific water treatment improvements in order to comply with existing maximum contaminant levels and plan for compliance with future drinking water regulations. However, the EPA and the respective state agencies have continuing authority to issue additional regulations under the Safe Drinking Water Act. New or more stringent environmental standards could be imposed that will raise Water Utility Services’ operating costs and capital expenditures, including requirements for increased monitoring, additional treatment of underground water supplies, fluoridation of all supplies, more stringent performance standards for treatment plants, additional procedures to further reduce levels of disinfection by-products, and more comprehensive measures to monitor, reduce or eliminate known or newly identified contaminants, such as PFAS. There are currently limited regulatory mechanisms and procedures available to us for the recovery of such costs and there can be no assurance that such costs will be fully recovered and failure to do so may adversely affect our operating results.
The impact of climate change and climate change laws and regulations have been passed and are being proposed that require compliance with greenhouse gas emissions standards, as well as other climate change initiatives, which could increase Water Utility Services’ operating costs and affect our business.
Climate change is receiving ever increasing attention worldwide. Many scientists, legislators, and others attribute global warming to increased levels of greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide. Climate change laws and regulations enacted and proposed limit greenhouse gases emissions from covered entities and require additional monitoring/reporting. We produce a corporate sustainability report, which provides an overview of our energy usage and greenhouse emissions. At this time, the existing greenhouse gases laws and regulations are not expected to materially impact Water Utility Services’ operations or capital expenditures. While regulation on climate change could change, the uncertainty of future climate change regulatory requirements still remains. We cannot predict the potential impact of future laws and regulations on our business, financial condition, or results of operations. Although these future expenditures and costs for regulatory compliance may be recovered in the form of higher rates, there can be no assurance that the various state utility commissions that govern our business would approve rate increases to enable us to recover such expenditures and costs.
Climate change may also impact water supply. For example, severity of drought conditions may impact the availability of water to all Water Utility Services and rising sea levels and their effect on contributing tributary’s water quality may impact the availability of groundwater to Water Utility Services.
We may be at risk for litigation under the principle of inverse condemnation for activities in the normal course of business that have a damaging effect on private property.
Under the California legal doctrine of inverse condemnation, a public utility taking or damaging private property can be responsible to the property owners for compensation, even when damage occurs through no fault or negligence of the utility company and regardless of whether the damage could be foreseen. Based upon existing California case law, SJWC could be sued under the doctrine of inverse condemnation and held liable if its facilities, operations or property, such as mains, fire hydrants, power lines and other equipment, or wildfires in our Santa Cruz Mountain watershed result in damage to private property.
A court finding of inverse condemnation does not obligate the CPUC to allow SJWC to recover damage awards or pass on costs to ratepayers. Insurance coverage for inverse condemnation may not be available or may not be sufficient. SJWC’s liquidity, earnings, and operations may be adversely affected if we are unable to recover the costs of paying claims for damages caused by the operation and maintenance of our property from customers or through insurance.
Our water utility property and systems are subject to condemnation and other proceedings through eminent domain.
State laws in jurisdictions where we operate, including California, Connecticut, Texas and Maine, allow municipalities, water districts and other public agencies to own and operate water systems. If these public agencies are able to establish certain eminent domain elements required under state and federal laws, they may condemn water systems or real property owned by privately owned public utilities in certain circumstances. In general, if a public agency seeks to exercise its eminent domain power to take possession of private property, it must establish that such taking is for a public purpose and must pay just compensation to owners of such property. In the event of eminent domain or condemnation proceedings against our water utility property or systems, we may incur substantial attorney’s fees, consultant and expert fees and other costs in considering a challenge to such proceeding and/or its valuation for just compensation, as well as fees and costs in any subsequent litigation if necessary. If the public agency prevailed and acquired our utility property, we would no longer have access to the condemned property or water system, neither would we be entitled to any portion of revenue generated from the use of such asset going forward. Furthermore, if public agencies succeed in acquiring our assets, there is a risk that we will not receive adequate compensation for the assets taken or be able to recover all charges associated with the condemnation of such assets, which may adversely affect our business operations and financial conditions.
Regulatory agencies may disagree with our valuation and characterization of certain of our assets.
If we determine that assets are no longer used or useful for utility operations, we may remove them from our rate base and subsequently sell those assets with any gain on sales accruing to the stockholders, subject to certain conditions. If the regulators disagree with our characterization, there is a risk that the regulators could determine that a portion or all of the realized appreciation in property value should be awarded to customers rather than our stockholders.
Risks Relating To Business Operations
The adequacy of our water supplies depends upon a variety of factors beyond our control. Interruption in the water supply may adversely affect our reputation and earnings.
We depend on an adequate water supply to meet the present and future needs of our customers. Whether we have an adequate supply varies depending upon a variety of factors, many of which are partially or completely beyond our control, including:
•the amount of rainfall;
•the amount of water stored in reservoirs;
•underground water supply from which well water is pumped;
•availability from water wholesalers;
•changes in the amount of water used by our customers;
•water quality and availability of appropriate treatment technology;
•legal limitations on water use such as rationing restrictions during a drought;
•changes in prevailing weather patterns and climate; and
•population growth.
We purchase our water supply from various governmental agencies and others. Water supply availability may be affected by weather conditions, funding and other political and environmental considerations. In addition, our ability to use surface water is
subject to regulations regarding water quality and volume limitations. If new regulations are imposed or existing regulations are changed or given new interpretations, the availability of surface water may be materially reduced. A reduction in surface water could result in the need to procure more costly water from other sources, thereby increasing our water production costs and adversely affecting our operating results if not recovered in rates on a timely basis. From time to time, we enter into water supply agreements with third parties and our business is dependent upon such agreements in order to meet regional demand. The parties from whom we purchase water maintain significant infrastructure and systems to deliver water to us. The maintenance of these facilities is beyond our control. If these facilities are not adequately maintained or if these parties otherwise default on their obligations to supply water to us, we may not have adequate water supplies to meet our customers’ needs.
If we are unable to access adequate water supplies, we may be unable to satisfy all customer demand, which could result in rationing. Rationing may have an adverse effect on cash flow from operations. We can make no guarantee that we will always have access to an adequate supply of water that will meet all required quality standards. Water shortages may affect us in a variety of ways. For example, shortages could:
•adversely affect our supply mix by causing us to rely on more expensive purchased water;
•adversely affect operating costs;
•increase the risk of contamination to our systems due to our inability to maintain sufficient pressure; and
•increase capital expenditures for building pipelines to connect to alternative sources of supply, new wells to replace those that are no longer in service or are otherwise inadequate to meet the needs of our customers and reservoirs and other facilities to conserve or reclaim water.
We may or may not be able to recover increased operating and construction costs on a timely basis, or at all, for our regulated systems through the ratemaking process. We can give no assurance, as to whether we may be able to recover certain of these costs from third parties that may be responsible, or potentially responsible, for any groundwater contamination.
The concentration of our business in California and Connecticut makes us susceptible to adverse developments affecting these two states.
While SJW Group operates in multiple states, a significant majority of our revenues and earnings are generated by our California and Connecticut operations. As a result, our financial results are largely subject to political, regulatory, economic, water supply, weather, labor, and energy cost risks affecting California and Connecticut.
We face competition from other utilities and service providers which might hinder our growth opportunities and mitigate our future profitability.
We face competition from other utilities and service providers which might hinder our growth opportunities and mitigate our future profitability. We face risks of competition from other utilities or other entities authorized by federal, state or local agencies to expand rate-regulated or contracted utility services. Once a state utility regulator grants a franchise to a public utility to serve a specific territory, that utility effectively has an exclusive right to service that territory. Although a new franchise offers some protection against competitors, the pursuit of franchises is often competitive, where new franchises may be awarded to utilities based upon competitive negotiation. Competing entities have challenged, and may challenge in the future, our applications for new franchises.
Fluctuations in customer demand for water due to seasonality, restrictions of use, weather, and lifestyle can adversely affect operating results.
Water Utility Services is seasonal, thus quarterly fluctuation in results of operations may be significant. Rainfall and other weather conditions also affect Water Utility Services. Water consumption typically increases during the third quarter of each year when weather tends to be warm and dry. In periods of drought, if customers are encouraged or required to conserve water due to a shortage of water supply or restriction of use, revenue tends to be lower. Similarly, in unusually wet periods, water supply tends to be higher and customer demand tends to be lower, again resulting in lower revenues. Furthermore, certain lifestyle choices made by customers can affect demand for water. For example, a significant portion of residential water use is for outside irrigation of lawns and landscaping. If there is a decreased desire by customers to maintain landscaping for their homes or restrictions are placed on outside irrigation, residential water demand would decrease, which would result in lower revenues.
Conservation efforts and construction codes, which require the use of low-flow plumbing fixtures and appliances, could diminish water consumption and result in reduced revenue. In addition, in time of drought, such as in the drought experienced in California in 2021 to early 2023, mandatory water conservation may become a regulatory requirement that impacts the water
usage of our customers. While the impacts of conservation and drought may be mitigated by certain regulatory mechanisms that may apply, such regulatory mechanisms are subject to review and change by the Regulators. Accordingly, there could be no assurance that such regulatory mechanisms will offset the effects of any revenue losses or other adverse impacts to our operating results attributable to these fluctuations in customer demand.
A contamination event or other decline in source water quality could affect the water supply of Water Utility Services and therefore adversely affect our business and operating results.
Water Utility Services is required under drinking water regulations to comply with water quality requirements. Through water quality compliance programs, Water Utility Services monitors for contamination and pollution of its sources of water. In addition, a watershed management program provides a proactive approach to minimize potential contamination activities. There can be no assurance that Water Utility Services will continue to comply fully with all applicable water quality requirements or detect contamination timely or at all. In addition, our facilities and infrastructure, including water towers, reservoirs and wells, may be subject to vandalism, break-ins or attacks, which may cause contamination or damage to our water supply. While we have taken measures to maintain physical security of our facilities, there is no guarantee that such measures will be effective to prevent such events. In the event a contamination is detected, Water Utility Services must either commence treatment to remove the contaminant or procure water from an alternative source. Either of these results may be costly, may increase future capital expenditures and there can be no assurance that the regulators would approve a rate increase to enable us to recover the costs arising from such remedies. In addition, we could be held liable for consequences arising from hazardous substances or contamination in our water supplies or other environmental damages and our reputation may be harmed by the public disclosures or media reports of these events. Our insurance policies may not cover or may not be sufficient to cover the costs of these claims.
Operating under contract water and waste systems subject us to risks.
Water Utility Services operates a number of water and wastewater systems under operation and maintenance contracts. Pursuant to these contracts, such systems are operated according to the standards set forth in the applicable contract, and it is generally the responsibility of the owner of the system to undertake capital improvements over which we may not have control. We may not be able to convince the owner to make needed improvements in order to maintain compliance with applicable regulations. Although violations and fines incurred by water and wastewater systems may be the responsibility of the owner of the system under these contracts, such non-compliance events may reflect poorly on us as the operator of the system and harm our reputation, and in some cases, may result in liability to the same extent as if we were the owner.
The necessity for ongoing physical and technological security has resulted, and may continue to result, in increased operating costs.
The necessity for ongoing physical and technological security has resulted, and may continue to result, in increased operating costs. Because of physical and technological threats to the health and security of the United States of America, we employ procedures to review and modify security measures. We provide ongoing training and communications to our employees about threats to our water supply, our assets and related systems and our employees’ personal safety. We have incurred, and will continue to incur, costs for security measures in efforts to protect against such risks.
Water Utility Services rely on information technology and systems that are key to business operations. A system malfunction, security breach, cyber-attacks, or other disruption that compromises our information could expose us to liability and adversely affect business operations. In addition, noncompliance could expose us to liability and adversely affect business operations.
Information technology is key to the operation of Water Utility Services, including but not limited to payroll, general ledger activities, outsourced bill preparation and remittance processing, providing customer service and the use of Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition systems to operate our distribution system. Among other things, system malfunctions, computer viruses and security breaches could prevent us from operating or monitoring our facilities, billing, and collecting cash accurately and timely analysis and reporting of financial results. In addition, we collect, process, and store sensitive data from our customers and employees, including personally identifiable information, on our networks. Despite our security measures, our information technology and infrastructure may be vulnerable to attacks by hackers or may be breached due to employee error, malfeasance, or other disruptions. Any such breach could compromise our networks, and the information stored there could be accessed without our authorization, publicly disclosed, lost, or stolen which could result in legal claims or proceedings, violation of privacy laws or damage to our reputation and customer relationships. Our profitability and cash flow could be affected negatively in the event these systems do not operate effectively or are breached. We also rely on third-party technology vendors for critical services, including data hosting and infrastructure support. A failure or breach by these vendors could also expose our systems and sensitive information to unauthorized access or disruption. Further, ransomware and other forms of disruptive or disabling cyber-attacks targeting utility systems and other infrastructure are continuously increasing in sophistication,
magnitude and frequency, and may not be recognized until launched against a target. The use of artificial intelligence by cybercriminals may increase the frequency and severity of cybersecurity attacks, including against us or our third-party vendors. Accordingly, we may be unable to anticipate these techniques or to entirely eliminate this risk. In addition, we may not be able to develop or acquire information technology that is competitive and responsive to the needs of our business, and we may lack sufficient resources to make the necessary upgrades or replacements of our outdated existing technology to allow us to continue to operate at our current level of efficiency. These risks may escalate during periods of heightened geopolitical tension.
In addition, we must comply with privacy laws such as The California Consumer Privacy Act, as amended by the California Privacy Rights Act (collectively, the “CCPA”). The CCPA requires, among other things, covered companies to provide enhanced disclosures to California consumers and to afford such consumers certain privacy rights and consumer protections. The CCPA also establishes statutory damages for victims of data security breaches, and provides additional rights for consumers to obtain their data from any business that has their personally identifying information. We are anticipating updated and finalized implementing regulations under the CCPA that may impact our compliance obligations. We are also subject to other comprehensive state privacy laws with similar obligations, including the Connecticut Data Privacy Act and the Texas Data Privacy and Security Act. While some of these laws include limited exceptions for data collected by utilities, the exceptions generally do not remove all obligations imposed by the laws.
Moreover, additional federal and state privacy and cybersecurity laws and regulations have been passed or may be passed in the future, and they may have potential compliance obligations that impact our operations depending on whether we fall under their scope. The effects of these laws have been significant, requiring us to modify our data processing practices and policies and to incur costs and expenses for compliance. Any actual or perceived noncompliance with applicable data privacy or cybersecurity laws may lead to investigations, claims, and proceedings by governmental entities and private parties, damages for breach, and cause us to incur other significant costs, penalties, and other liabilities, as well as harm to our reputation.
A failure of our reservoirs, storage tanks, mains or distribution networks could result in losses and damages that may adversely affect our financial condition and reputation.
We distribute water through an extensive network of mains and store water in reservoirs and storage tanks located across our service areas. The Water Utility Services’ distribution systems were constructed during the period from the early 1900’s through today. A failure of major mains, reservoirs, or tanks could result in injuries and damage to residential and/or commercial property for which we may be responsible, in whole or in part. The failure of major mains, reservoirs or tanks may also result in the need to shut down some facilities or parts of our water distribution network in order to conduct repairs. Such failures and shutdowns may limit our ability to supply water in sufficient quantities to our customers and to meet the water delivery requirements prescribed by governmental regulators, which could adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, cash flow, liquidity and reputation. We also own and operate numerous dams in California, Connecticut and Maine, and a failure of such dams could result in losses and damages that may adversely affect our financial condition and reputation. Any business interruption or other losses might not be covered by existing insurance policies or be recoverable in rates, and such losses may make it difficult for us to secure insurance in the future at acceptable rates. Our insurance policies may not cover or may not be sufficient to cover the costs of these claims.
The operations of our water and wastewater treatment plants involve physical, chemical, and biological processes and the use of pumps, generators, and other industrial equipment. As a result, our operations are subject to various industrial risks, including chemical spills, discharges or releases of toxic or hazardous substances or gases, effects resulting from confined operating spaces, fires, explosions, mechanical failures, storage tank leaks, and electric shock. These risks can result in personal injury, loss of life, catastrophic damage to or destruction of property and equipment or environmental damage, and related legal proceedings, including those commenced by regulators, neighbors, or others. They may also result in an unanticipated interruption or suspension of our operations and the imposition of liability. The loss or shutdown over an extended period of operations at any of our treatment facilities or any losses relating to these risks could have a material adverse impact on our profitability, results of operations, liquidity, and cash flows.
Our business and financial performance may be adversely affected by high inflation.
Inflation has the potential to adversely affect our liquidity, business, financial condition and results of operations by increasing our overall cost structure, particularly if we are unable to achieve increases in the rates we charge our customers. There is no guarantee that any future rate increase requests will be approved and granted in a timely manner and/or will be sufficient to cover costs for the impact of high inflation. The existence of inflation in the economy has resulted in, and may continue to result in, higher interest rates and capital costs, shipping costs, supply shortages, increased costs of labor and other similar effects. As a result of inflation, we have experienced and may continue to experience, cost increases. Although we may take measures to mitigate the impact of this inflation, if these measures are not effective, our business, financial condition, results of
operations and liquidity could be materially adversely affected. Even if such measures are effective, there could be a difference between the timing of when these beneficial actions impact our results of operations and when the cost of inflation is incurred.
Work stoppages and other labor relations matters could adversely affect our business and operating results.
As of December 31, 2024, 241 of our 822 total employees were union members. Most of our unionized employees are represented by the UWUA, except certain employees in the engineering department who are represented by the OE. Only employees at SJWC are union members. The current three-year bargaining agreements will expire on December 31, 2025.
We may experience difficulties and delays in the collective bargaining process to reach suitable agreements with union employees, particularly in light of increasing healthcare and pension costs. In addition, changes in applicable law and regulations could have an adverse effect on management’s negotiating position with the unions. Labor actions, work stoppages or the threat of work stoppages, and our failure to obtain favorable labor contract terms during future negotiations may adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and liquidity.
If we fail to maintain safe work sites, we can be exposed to not only people impacts but also to financial losses such as penalties and other liabilities.
Our safety record is critical to our reputation because our business operation involves inherently dangerous activities. We maintain health and safety standards to protect our employees, customers, vendors and the public. Although we intend to adhere to such health and safety standards and aim for zero injuries, it is difficult to avoid accidents at all times.
Our business sites, including construction and maintenance sites, often place our employees and others in close proximity with large pieces of heavy equipment, moving vehicles, pressurized water, underground trenches and vaults, chemicals and other regulated materials. On many sites we are responsible for safety and, accordingly, must implement safety procedures. If we fail to implement such procedures or if the procedures we implement are ineffective or are not followed by our employees or others, or if accidents occur outside of our control, our employees and others may be injured or die. Unsafe work sites also have the potential to increase employee turnover and raise our operating costs. Any of the foregoing could result in financial losses, which could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
In addition, our operations can involve the handling and storage of hazardous chemicals, which, if improperly handled, stored or disposed of, could subject us to penalties or other liabilities. We are also subject to regulations dealing with occupational health and safety. Although we maintain functional employee groups whose primary purpose is to ensure we implement effective health, safety, and environment work procedures throughout our organization, including construction sites and maintenance sites, the failure to comply with such regulations or procedures could subject us to a liability.
Risks Relating To Our Finances and Corporate Matters
We may not have sufficient cash flow or capital resources to fund capital expenditures of our business, and our access to liquidity through the capital markets may be limited.
Our business is capital-intensive. Expenditure levels for renewal and modernization of the system will grow at an increasing rate as components reach the end of their useful lives. In addition, EPA regulations impose maximum contaminant levels and monitoring requirements for the nation’s water systems for six PFAS chemicals under the Safe Drinking Water Act and will require an increase in capital expenditures. SJW Group’s subsidiaries fund capital expenditures through a variety of sources, including cash received from operations, funds received from developers as contributions or advances, borrowings through lines of credit and debt financings, as well as equity financings by SJW Group. We cannot provide any assurance that the historical sources of funds for capital expenditures will continue to be adequate or that the cost of funds will remain at levels permitting us to earn a reasonable rate of return. A significant change in any of the funding sources could impair the ability of Water Utility Services to fund its capital expenditures, which could impact our ability to grow our utility asset base and earnings. Any increase in the cost of capital through higher interest rates or otherwise could adversely affect our results of operations.
Our ability to raise capital through equity or debt may be affected by the economy and condition of the debt and equity markets. Disruptions in the capital and credit markets or deterioration in the strength of financial institutions could adversely affect SJW Group’s ability to draw on its lines of credit, issue long-term debt or sell its equity. In addition, government policies, the state of the credit markets and other factors could result in increased interest rates, which would increase SJW Group’s cost of capital. Furthermore, equity financings may result in dilution to our existing stockholders and debt financings may contain covenants that restrict the actions of SJW Group and its subsidiaries.
We have incurred substantial additional indebtedness that may reduce our business and operational flexibility and increase our borrowing costs.
We have incurred substantial indebtedness resulting in a higher debt-to-equity ratio, which may have the effect, among other things, of:
•reducing our flexibility to respond to changing business, industry and economic conditions;
•increasing borrowing costs;
•limiting growth through capital expenditures and acquisitions;
•placing us at a competitive disadvantage relative to other companies in our industry with less debt;
•potentially having an adverse effect on our issuer and issue ratings;
•requiring additional cash flow to be used to service debt instead of for other purposes; and
•potentially impairing our ability to obtain other financing.
Under certain circumstances, we may not have sufficient funds or other resources to satisfy all of our obligations under our indebtedness, including principal and interest payments, which, if not cured, may cause an event of default. In addition, the terms and conditions of such indebtedness, including financial covenants and restrictive covenants, may reduce our business flexibility and adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. The agreements governing the indebtedness contain covenants that impose significant operating and financial limitations and restrictions on us, including restrictions on the ability to enter particular transactions and engage in other activities that we may believe will be advisable or necessary for our business.
Our borrowings include certain financial covenants regarding a maximum debt to equity ratio and an interest coverage requirement for us and certain subsidiaries. In the event the relevant borrower exceeds the maximum debt to equity ratio or interest coverage requirement, we may be restricted from issuing future debt. Additionally, certain covenants include restrictions on cash dividends paid based on restricted net assets. Further, we have issued certain revenue bonds that contain affirmative and negative covenants customary for a loan agreement relating to revenue bonds, including, among other things, certain disclosure obligations, the tax exempt status of the interest on the bonds, and limitations and prohibitions on the transfer of projects funded by the loan proceeds and assignment of the loan agreement. Failure to comply with any of the covenants in our existing or future debt agreements could result in a default under those agreements and under other existing agreements containing cross-default provisions. A default would permit lenders to accelerate the maturity of indebtedness under these agreements, which would have an adverse effect on our business operations and financial condition.
SJW Group has committed to certain “ring-fencing” measures which will enhance CTWS’s separateness from SJW Group, which may limit SJW Group’s ability to influence the management and policies of CTWS (beyond the limitations included in other existing governance mechanisms).
Pursuant to the agreements related to the acquisition of CTWS and commitments made by SJW Group as part of the application for PURA and MPUC approval of the acquisition of CTWS, SJW Group has instituted certain “ring-fencing” measures to enhance CTWS’s separateness from SJW Group and to mitigate the risk that CTWS would be negatively impacted in the event of a bankruptcy or other adverse financial developments affecting SJW Group or its non-ring-fenced affiliates. These commitments became effective upon the closing of the acquisition.
In order to satisfy the ring-fencing commitments, SJW Group formed SJWNE LLC a wholly owned special purpose entity (“SPE”), to own the capital stock of CTWS. The SPE, CTWS and its subsidiaries (collectively, the “CTWS Entities”) adopted certain measures designed to enhance their separateness from SJW Group, with the intention of mitigating the effects on the CTWS Entities of any bankruptcy of SJW Group and its affiliates other than the CTWS Entities (collectively, the “Non-CTWS Entities”). As a result of these ring-fencing measures, in certain situations, SJW Group will be restricted in its ability to access assets of the CTWS Entities as dividends or intercompany loans to satisfy the debt or contractual obligations of any Non-CTWS Entity, including any indebtedness or other contractual obligations of SJW Group. In addition, the ring-fencing structure may negatively impact SJW Group’s ability to achieve certain benefits, including synergies and economies of scale to reduce operating costs of the combined entity, that it anticipates will result from the merger. This ring-fencing structure also subjects SJW Group and the CTWS Entities to certain governance, operational and financial restrictions since the closing of the merger. Accordingly, SJW Group may be restricted in its ability to direct the management, policies and operations of the CTWS Entities, including the deployment or disposition of their respective assets, declarations of dividends, strategic planning and other important corporate issues. Furthermore, the CTWS Entities’ directors have considerable autonomy and, as described in our commitments, have a duty to act in the best interest of the CTWS Entities consistent with the ring-fencing structure and applicable law, which may be contrary to SJW Group’s best interests or be in opposition to SJW Group’s preferred strategic
direction for the CTWS Entities. To the extent they take actions that are not in SJW Group’s interests, our financial condition, results of operations and prospects may be materially adversely affected.
Our business strategy, which includes acquiring water systems and expanding non-tariffed services, will expose us to new risks which could have a material adverse effect on our business.
Our business strategy focuses on the following:
•Regional regulated water utility operations (includes water and wastewater);
•Regional non-tariffed water utility related services provided in accordance with the guidelines established by the applicable state public utility commissions; and
•Out-of-region water and utility related services.
As part of our pursuit of the above three strategic areas, we consider from time-to-time opportunities to acquire businesses and assets. However, we cannot be certain we will be successful in identifying and consummating any strategic business combination or acquisitions relating to such opportunities. In addition, the execution of our business strategy will expose us to different risks than those associated with the current utility operations. We expect to incur costs in connection with the execution of this strategy and any integration of an acquired business could involve significant costs, the assumption of certain known and unknown liabilities related to the acquired assets, the diversion of management’s time and resources, the potential for a negative impact on SJW Group’s financial position and operating results, entering markets in which SJW Group has no or limited direct prior experience and the potential loss of key employees of any acquired company. Any strategic combination or acquisition we decide to undertake may also impact our ability to finance our business, affect our compliance with regulatory requirements, and impose additional burdens on our operations. Any businesses we acquire may not achieve sales, customer growth and projected profitability that would justify the investment. Any difficulties we encounter in the integration process, including the integration of controls necessary for internal control and financial reporting, could interfere with our operations, reduce our operating margins and adversely affect our internal controls. SJW Group cannot be certain that any transaction will be successful or that it will not materially harm operating results or our financial condition.
An impairment in the carrying value of our goodwill could negatively impact our consolidated results of operations and financial condition.
We have significant amounts of goodwill resulting from the acquisition of businesses. As of December 31, 2024, consolidated goodwill totaled $640.3 million, or 14% of our total assets. Goodwill represents the excess of amounts paid for acquired businesses over the fair value of the net assets acquired. Goodwill is not amortized but is tested for impairment annually on October 1st or more frequently if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. Such events or circumstances could include changes in performance relative to expected operating results, significant negative industry or economic trends, including rising interest rates, or a significant decline in our stock price and/or market capitalization for a sustained period of time. If certain factors arise, we may be required to record a significant charge to earnings in our consolidated financial statements during the period in which an impairment of our goodwill is determined. Any such charge could have a material adverse impact on our results of operations and financial condition.
Adverse investment returns and other factors may increase our pension costs and pension plan funding requirements.
A substantial number of our employees are covered by defined benefit pension plans. Our pension costs and the funded status of the plans are affected by a number of factors including the discount rate, applicable mortality tables, mortality rates of plan participants, investment returns on plan assets, and pension reform legislation. Any change in such factors could result in an increase in future pension costs and an increase in our pension liabilities, requiring an increase in plan contributions which may adversely affect our financial conditions and results of operations.
SJW Group’s dividend policy is subject to the discretion of our board of directors and may be limited by legal and contractual requirements.
We anticipate continuing to pay a regular quarterly dividend, though any such determination to pay dividends will be at the discretion of our board of directors and will be dependent on then-existing conditions, including our financial condition, earnings, legal requirements, including limitations under Delaware law, restrictions in our credit agreements and other debt instruments that limit our ability to pay dividends to stockholders, and other factors the board of directors deems relevant. The board of directors of SJW Group may, in its sole discretion, change the amount or frequency of dividends or discontinue the payment of dividends entirely.
SJW Group is a holding company that depends on cash flow from its subsidiaries to meet its financial obligations and pay dividends on its common stock.
As a holding company, we conduct substantially all of our operations through subsidiaries and our only significant assets are investments in those subsidiaries. This means that we are dependent on distributions of funds from our subsidiaries to meet SJW Group’s debt service obligations and to pay dividends on our common stock. Our subsidiaries are separate and distinct legal entities and generally have no obligation to pay any amounts due on SJW Group’s debt or to provide SJW Group with funds for dividends. Our subsidiaries only pay dividends if and when declared by their respective boards of directors. Additionally, our subsidiaries may be subject to restrictions on their ability to pay dividends to us, including under state law, pursuant to regulatory commitments, and under their credit agreements and other debt instruments. In this regard, the CTWS Entities are limited from paying dividends to us in certain circumstances under PURA and MPUC regulatory commitments. Furthermore, our right to receive cash or other assets in the unlikely event of liquidation or reorganization of any of our subsidiaries is generally subject to the prior claims of creditors of that subsidiary. Any inability of our subsidiaries to pay us dividends may have a material and adverse effect on our ability to pay dividends to our stockholders, meet our financial obligations, or make additional investments.
Our charter documents and Delaware law could prevent a takeover that stockholders consider favorable and could also make it more difficult for stockholders to influence our policies or may reduce the rights of stockholders.
SJW Group’s Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws contain provisions that could delay or prevent a change in control of SJW Group. These provisions could also make it more difficult for our stockholders to remove or replace directors or take other corporate actions. These provisions include, but are not limited to, the following:
•Authorizing the Board of Directors to issue “blank check” preferred stock;
•Prohibiting cumulative voting in the election of directors;
•Limiting the ability of stockholders to call a special meeting of stockholders to only stockholders holding not less than 20% of outstanding voting power; and
•Requiring advance notification of stockholder nomination of directors and proposals.
In addition, the provisions of Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporate Law (“DGCL”) govern SJW Group. These provisions may prohibit large stockholders, in particular those owning 15% or more of our outstanding voting stock, from merging or combining with us for a certain period of time without the consent of the Board of Directors.
Furthermore, SJW Group’s Certificate of Incorporation provides, unless the company consents in writing to the selection of an alternate forum, (a) a state or federal court located within the State of Delaware is the sole and exclusive forum for (i) any derivative action or proceeding brought on behalf of SJW Group, (ii) any action asserting a claim of breach of a fiduciary duty owed by any director, officer or other employee of SJW Group to the company or its stockholders, (iii) any action asserting a claim arising pursuant to any provision of the DGCL, or (iv) any action asserting a claim governed by the internal affairs doctrine; and (b) the U.S. federal district courts is the sole and exclusive forum for any claim arising under the Securities Act of 1933 (unless such provision is deemed illegal, invalid or unenforceable, in which case the sole exclusive state court forum for any claim arising under the Securities Act of 1933 will be the Court of Chancery in the State of Delaware). Such “exclusive forum” provisions may limit a stockholder’s ability to bring a claim in a judicial forum that it finds favorable for disputes with SJW Group or its directors, officers or other employees, which may discourage such lawsuits.
We may not be able to maintain adequate insurance coverage at reasonable costs, or at all, to cover all losses incurred in our operations.
We maintain insurance coverage as part of our overall legal and risk management strategy to minimize potential liabilities arising from our operations. Our insurance programs have varying coverage limits, deductibles, exclusions and maximums, and our insurance coverages include: worker’s compensation, employer’s liability, damage to our property, general liability, pollution liability, cybersecurity, and automobile liability. Each policy includes either deductibles or self-insured retentions and policy limits for covered claims. As a result, we may sustain losses that exceed or are excluded from our insurance coverage or for which we are self-insured. The insurance companies may also seek to challenge, reduce or deny any claims we submit, which may prevent us from recovering fully the losses we incurred. In addition, insurance companies may increase premiums or deductibles or reduce coverage limits based on factors that are beyond our control, including industry trends, financial conditions of insurance companies and catastrophic events such as wildfire, earthquake and pandemic. There can be no assurance that we can secure all necessary or appropriate insurance in the future, or that such insurance can be obtained at reasonable cost, or at all.
General Risk Factors
We operate in areas subject to natural disasters, and we may be the target of terrorist activities and other physical threats.
We operate in areas that are prone to earthquakes, fires, floods, extreme weather and other natural disasters. A significant seismic event in northern California, where the majority of our operations are concentrated, or other natural disaster in northern California, Connecticut, Texas or Maine could adversely impact our ability to deliver water to our customers and our costs of operations. A major disaster could damage or destroy our capital assets, harm our reputations and adversely affect our results of operations. The Regulators have historically allowed utilities to establish catastrophic event memorandum accounts as a possible mechanism to recover costs, such as the CEMA memorandum account in California. However, we can give no assurance that our regulators, or any other commission, would allow any such cost recovery mechanism in the future.
In light of the potential threats to the nation’s health and security due to terrorist attacks, we have taken steps to increase security measures at our facilities and heighten employee awareness of threats to our water supply. We have also tightened our security measures regarding the delivery and handling of certain chemicals used in our business. In addition, because our operation requires us to interact extensively with the general public, we may be subject to complaints, threats and potentially violent actions by our customers or the public, which may disrupt our business activities and damage our reputation.
We have and will continue to bear increased costs for security precautions to protect our facilities, operations and supplies. These costs may be significant. While some of these costs are likely to be recovered in the form of higher rates, there can be no assurance that the Regulators will approve a rate increase to recover all or part of such costs and, as a result, our operating results and business may be adversely affected. Further, despite these tightened security measures, we may not be in a position to control the outcome of terrorist events should they occur.
Our operations, liquidity, and earnings may be adversely affected by wildfires and risk of fire hazards.
It is possible that wildfires and other fire hazards may occur more frequently, be of longer duration or impact larger areas as a result of drought-damaged plants and trees, lower humidity or higher winds that might be occurring as a result of changed weather patterns. The effects of these natural disasters in California’s drought-prone areas, such as the Santa Cruz Mountains, the watershed of which SJWC owns approximately 6,400 acres and where SJWC typically obtains approximately up to 10% of its water supply, may temporarily compromise its surface water supply resulting in disruption in our services and litigation which could adversely affect our business, operating results, and financial condition.
If our surface water supply is compromised, we may have to interrupt the use of that water supply until we are able to substitute the flow of water from an alternative water source.
In addition, we may incur significant costs in order to treat the impacted source through expansion of our current treatment facilities, or development of new treatment methods. If we are unable to substitute water supply from an alternative water source, or to adequately treat the impacted water source in a cost-effective manner, there may be an adverse effect on our revenues, operating results, and financial condition. The costs we incur to secure an alternative water source or an increase in draws from our underground water system could be significant and may not be recoverable in rates.
Wildfires may destroy or cause damage to properties, facilities, equipment and other assets owned and operated by SJWC or result in personal injuries to our employees and personnel, which may cause temporary or permanent disruption to our water services. In such a case, we may be required to incur significant expenses to repair, replace or upgrade our assets, or to defend against costly litigation or disputes with third parties, any of which may adversely affect our business operations or financial conditions.
While we maintain a business insurance policy, such policy includes limitation and retention that may reduce, or in some cases eliminate, our ability to recover all or a substantial portion of the losses and damages due to wildfire. Our inability to rely fully on insurance coverage may negatively impact our results of operations. Losses by insurance companies resulting from wildfires may also cause insurance coverage for wildfire risks to become more expensive or unavailable under reasonable terms, and our insurance may be inadequate to recover all our losses incurred in a wildfire. Furthermore, we might not be allowed to recover in our rates any increased costs of wildfire insurance or the costs of any uninsured wildfire losses.
The price of our common stock may be volatile and may be affected by market conditions beyond our control.
The trading price of our common stock may fluctuate in the future based on a variety of factors, many of which are beyond our control and unrelated to our financial results. Factors that could cause fluctuations in the trading price of our common stock include volatility of the general stock market or the utility index, regulatory developments, public announcement or market assumptions of material developments in strategic transactions, general economic conditions and trends, actual or anticipated changes or fluctuations in our results of operations, actual or anticipated changes in the expectations of investors or securities
analysts, actual or anticipated developments in our competitors’ businesses or the competitive landscape generally, litigation involving us or our industry, and major catastrophic event(s) or sales of large blocks of our stock. Furthermore, we believe that stockholders invest in public stocks in part because they seek reliable dividend payments. If there is an oversupply of stock of public utilities in the market relative to demand by such investors, the trading price of our common stock may decrease. Additionally, if interest rates rise above the dividend yield offered by our common stock, demand for our stock and its trading price may also decrease.
We must continue to attract and retain qualified technical and managerial personnel in order to succeed.
Our future success depends substantially upon our ability to attract and retain highly skilled technical, operational and financial managers. There is significant competition for such personnel in our industry. Our ability to recruit and retain qualified personnel depends on many factors, including but are not limited to, our ability to provide competitive compensation and benefit packages, availability of talents in our industry, general workforce trends and macroeconomic conditions. The loss of the services of any member of our management team or the inability to hire and retain experienced management personnel could have an adverse effect on our business, as our management team has knowledge of our industry and customers and would be difficult to replace. We believe we offer competitive compensation and benefits as well as conduct succession planning and provide opportunities for continued development, and we continually strive to recruit and train qualified personnel and retain key employees. There can be no assurance, however, that we will continue to be successful in attracting and retaining the personnel we require to grow and operate profitably.
Item 1B.Unresolved Staff Comments
None.
Item 1C. Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity Risk Management and Strategy
We have taken critical steps to ensure the security and protection of our computer systems and networks. Our processes for assessment, identification and management of material risks from cybersecurity threats include routine monitoring of vulnerabilities, evaluations of new service providers, written policies for incident identification and management, and regular testing and assessment of our cybersecurity posture.
We have integrated cybersecurity risk management as part of our company-wide culture. The measures undertaken include, but are not limited to, monthly cybersecurity training for all employees and frequent communication to all employees on the importance of cybersecurity measures.
We have engaged third-party experts to assist us in monitoring and managing our cybersecurity process. Furthermore, we monitor cybersecurity threats at certain of our third-party vendors on a regular basis. As of the date of this report, we are not aware of any material risks from cybersecurity threats that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect the company, including our business strategy, results of operations, or financial condition. We have discussed cybersecurity risks that may affect the company in Item 1A, “Risk Factors,” under the headings, “The necessity for ongoing physical and technological security has resulted, and may continue to result, in increased operating costs,” “Water Utility Services rely on information technology and systems that are key to business operations. A system malfunction, security breach, cyber-attacks or other disruption that compromises our information and expose us to liability and adversely affect business operations. In addition, noncompliance could expose us to liability and adversely affect business operations,” and “We may not be able to maintain adequate insurance coverage at reasonable costs, or at all, to cover all losses incurred in our operations.” Cybersecurity Governance
We have implemented an internal risk assessment process that focuses on the principal risks that have been identified for us, including risks associated with our regulatory environment, business operations and continuity, compliance requirements, information technology and data storage and retrieval facilities, cyber risk, insurance coverage. The Audit Committee, pursuant to its charter, meets at least quarterly with senior leadership and other employees to discuss identified risks and the measures taken to control, manage and mitigate those risks, which include cyber and information security risk. On the basis of these meetings and discussions regarding such risks, the Chairman of the Audit Committee reports periodically to the full Board. The Vice President, Information Security Officer provides cybersecurity updates to the Audit Committee and other members of our senior management as appropriate at least quarterly. Our Vice President, Information Security Officer, and his team is responsible for leading enterprise-wide cybersecurity strategy, policy, standards, architecture, and processes, with the support of third-party experts. The Vice President, Information Security Officer has over 30 years of experience in information technology of which over 20 years is in cybersecurity, with industry experience in utilities, banking and e-commerce.
Item 2.Properties
The properties of SJWC consist of a unified water production system located in the County of Santa Clara in the State of California. In general, the property is comprised of franchise rights, water rights, necessary rights-of-way, approximately 6,400 acres of land held in fee (which is primarily non-developable watershed), impounding reservoirs with a capacity of approximately 2.3 billion gallons, 2,487 miles of transmission and distribution mains, distribution storage of approximately 0.20 billion gallons, wells, boosting facilities, diversions, surface water treatment plants, equipment, office buildings and other property necessary to provide water service to its customers.
SJWC maintains all of its properties in good operating condition in accordance with customary practice for a water utility. SJWC’s groundwater pumping stations have a production capacity of approximately 0.26 billion gallons per day and the present capacity for taking purchased water is approximately 0.08 billion gallons per day. The surface water collection system has a physical delivery capacity of approximately 0.04 billion gallons per day. During 2024, a maximum and average of 0.13 billion gallons and 0.09 billion gallons of water per day, respectively, were delivered to the system.
The properties of CTWS consist of land, easements, rights (including water rights), buildings, reservoirs with a capacity of approximately 9.4 billion gallons, standpipes, dams, wells, supply lines, water treatment plants, pumping plants, 2,331 miles of transmission and distribution mains and other facilities and equipment used for the collection, purification, storage and distribution of water throughout Connecticut and Maine. In certain cases, CWC and MWC are or may be a party to limited contractual arrangements for the provision of water supply from neighboring utilities.
Sources of water supply owned, maintained and operated by CTWS include 25 surface water reservoirs and 108 well fields. In addition, CWC and MWC have agreements with various neighboring water utilities to provide water, at negotiated rates, to our water systems. Collectively, these sources have the capacity to deliver approximately 0.08 billion gallons of potable water daily to the 27 major operating systems. CTWS also owns, maintains and operates 50 small, non-interconnected satellite and consecutive water systems, that combined, have the ability to deliver about 3.5 million gallons of additional water per day to their respective systems. CTWS’s 30 water treatment plants have a combined treatment capacity of approximately 0.05 billion gallons per day. In addition, CTWS owns and operates one wastewater treatment plant with a capacity of 780,000 gallons per day.
The properties of TWC consist of land, easements, rights (including water rights), buildings, reservoirs, standpipes, wells, supply lines, water treatment plants, pumping plants, 826 miles of transmission and distribution mains and other facilities and equipment used for the collection, purification, storage and distribution of water throughout its service area. TWC maintains a service area that covers approximately 271 square miles located in the southern region of the Texas hill country in Bandera, Blanco, Comal, Hays, Kendall, Medina and Travis counties. The majority of the service area surrounds an 8,200-surface acre reservoir, Canyon Lake. TWC production wells have the ability to pump a combined 5.8 billion gallons annually. TWC has contracts for 2 billion gallons of untreated surface water and 0.48 billion gallons of treated surface water from the GBRA annually, and 0.11 billion gallons of treated surface water from LCRA. TWC owns and operates three surface water treatment plants with a combined production capacity of 9 million gallons per day. TWC maintains 89 storage tanks with a total storage capacity of 0.02 billion gallons. TWC owns and operates four wastewater treatment plants with a combined capacity of 337,000 gallons per day. In August 2023, TWR acquired eight wells and the water rights of KTR. During the third quarter of 2024, TWC purchased these assets from TWR for use in utility operations. These wells have been projected to yield an additional 6,000 acre-feet per year or more.
Water Utility Services hold all of its principal properties in fee simple, subject to current tax and assessment liens, rights-of-way, easements, and certain minor defects in title which do not materially affect their use. A substantial portion of treatment, storage and distribution properties owned by MWC are subject to indentures that secure bonds, notes and other evidence of long-term indebtedness.
As of December 31, 2024, SJW Land Company and Chester Realty, Inc. own approximately 101 acres of property in the State of California and 23 acres of property in State of Connecticut.
Item 3.Legal Proceedings
SJW Group and its subsidiaries are subject to ordinary routine litigation incidental to its business. In October 2023, CWC, a subsidiary of SJW Group, was named as a defendant in a putative class action lawsuit alleging that the water provided by CWC
contained contaminants. The case is currently pending in the State of Connecticut Superior Court. CWC is vigorously defending itself in this lawsuit.
SJWC and CWC are plaintiffs in a lawsuit against manufacturers of certain PFAS compounds for damages, contribution and reimbursement of costs incurred and continuing to be incurred to address the presence of such PFAS compounds in public water supply systems owned and operated by these utility subsidiaries and throughout their respective service areas. The lawsuit is part of Multi-District Litigation (“MDL”), that commenced on December 7, 2018, in the United States District Court for the District of South Carolina. MWC has submitted timely claims as a settlement class member.
On February 8, 2024, the MDL court approved settlements involving defendants The Chemours Company, Corteva, Inc., and DuPont de Nemours, Inc. to resolve claims brought in the MDL against them by public water systems, including SJWC and CWC. On March 29, 2024, the MDL court approved a similar settlement involving defendant 3M. On November 22, 2024, the MDL court approved settlements involving defendants Tyco Fire Products LP, Chemgaurd, Inc., and BASF Corporation. SJW Group is monitoring and evaluating the ongoing litigation and settlement activity with the PFAS manufacturers for potential impacts to the various claims that these utility subsidiaries have asserted.
Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures
None.
PART II
Item 5.Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Market Information
Since November 8, 2024, SJW Group’s common stock has been trading on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol “SJW.” Prior to November 8, 2024, SJW Group’s common stock was traded on the New York Stock Exchange. As of February 20, 2025, there were 255 record holders of SJW Group’s common stock, excluding those shares held in street or nominee name.
Five-Year Performance Graph
The following performance graph compares the changes in the cumulative stockholder return on SJW Group’s common stock with the cumulative total return on a Water Utility Index and the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index during the last five years ended December 31, 2024. The comparison assumes $100 was invested on December 31, 2019 in SJW Group’s common stock and in each of the foregoing indices and assumes reinvestment of dividends.
COMPARISON OF FIVE YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN
Among SJW Group, a Water Utility Index and the S&P 500 Index
The following descriptive data of the performance graph is supplied in accordance with Rule 304(d) of Regulation S-T (numbers represent U.S. dollars ($)):
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2019 | | 2020 | | 2021 | | 2022 | | 2023 | | 2024 |
| SJW Group | 100 | | | 100 | | | 107 | | | 122 | | | 100 | | | 77 | |
| Water Utility Index | 100 | | | 115 | | | 144 | | | 123 | | | 111 | | | 106 | |
| S&P 500 Index | 100 | | | 118 | | | 152 | | | 125 | | | 158 | | | 197 | |
The Water Utility Index is the eight water company Water Utility Index prepared by Wells Fargo Securities, LLC. The above performance graph and related information shall not be deemed “soliciting material” or to be “filed” with the SEC, nor shall such information be incorporated by reference into any future filing under the Securities Act of 1933 or Securities Exchange Act of 1934, each as amended, except to the extent that the company specifically incorporates it by reference into such filing.
Item 6.[Reserved]
Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
(Dollar amounts in thousands, except where otherwise noted)
The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read together with “Forward-Looking Statements,” Part 1, Item 1 “Business,” Part I, Item 1A “Risk Factors,” and our consolidated financial statements and notes included under Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The following sections include a discussion of results for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to the year ended December 31, 2023. Unless otherwise provided herein, the comparative results for the year ended December 31, 2023 with for the year ended December 31, 2022 may be found in “Part II - Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” of the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Business Strategy
SJW Group focuses its business initiatives in three strategic areas:
(1)Investing in regional regulated water utility operations to support the health, safety and quality of life of our customers;
(2)Regional non-tariffed water utility related services provided in accordance with the guidelines established by the applicable state public utility commissions; and
(3)Out-of-region water and utility related services.
Regional Regulated Activities
SJW Group’s regulated utility operation is conducted through SJWC, CWC, TWC and MWC. SJW Group plans and applies a diligent and disciplined approach to maintaining and improving its water system infrastructures and also seeks to acquire regulated water systems adjacent to or near its existing service territory. CWC and TWC also provide regulated wastewater services.
The United States water utility industry is largely fragmented and is dominated by municipal-owned water systems. The water industry is regulated, and provides a life-sustaining product. This makes water utilities subject to lower business cycle risks than non-tariffed industries.
Regional Non-tariffed Activities
Non-tariffed services provided by SJW Group’s subsidiaries include water system operations, maintenance agreements, antenna site leases under agreements with municipalities and other utilities, wholesale water service to adjacent utilities, wastewater services, and Linebacker©, an optional service line protection program covering a limited amount of the cost of repairs for leaking or broken water and wastewater service lines and in-home plumbing to eligible residential customers in Connecticut and water service lines to eligible residential customers in Maine.
SJW Group also seeks appropriate non-tariffed business opportunities that complement its existing operations or that allow it to extend its core competencies beyond existing operations. SJW Group seeks opportunities to fully utilize its capabilities and existing capacity by providing services to other regional water systems, which also will benefit its existing regional customers.
Out-of-Region Opportunities
SJW Group also from time to time pursues opportunities to participate in out-of-region water and utility related services, particularly regulated water and wastewater businesses. SJW Group evaluates out-of-region and out-of-state opportunities that meet SJW Group’s risk and return profile.
The factors SJW Group considers in evaluating such opportunities include:
•Potential profitability;
•Regulatory environment;
•Additional growth opportunities within the region;
•Water supply, water quality and environmental issues;
•Capital requirements;
•General economic conditions; and
•Synergy potential.
As part of our pursuit of the above three strategic areas, we consider from time-to-time opportunities to acquire businesses and assets. However, we cannot be certain we will be successful in identifying and consummating any strategic business combination or acquisitions relating to such opportunities. In addition, the execution of our business strategy will expose us to different risks than those associated with the current utility operations. We expect to incur costs in connection with the execution of this strategy and any integration of an acquired business could involve significant costs, the assumption of certain known and unknown liabilities related to the acquired assets, the diversion of management’s time and resources, the potential for a negative impact on SJW Group’s financial position and operating results, entering markets in which SJW Group has no or limited direct prior experience and the potential loss of key employees of any acquired company. Any strategic combination or acquisition we decide to undertake may also impact our ability to finance our business, affect our compliance with regulatory requirements, and impose additional burdens on our operations. Any businesses we acquire may not achieve sales, customer growth and projected profitability that would justify the investment. Any difficulties we encounter in the integration process, including the integration of controls necessary for internal control and financial reporting, could interfere with our operations, reduce our operating margins and adversely affect our internal controls. SJW Group cannot be certain that any transaction will be successful or that it will not materially harm operating results or our financial condition.
Reportable Segment
Together, SJWC, excluding the Cupertino service concession arrangement operations, CWC, MWC and TWC are referred to as “Water Utility Services,” which is our single reportable segment. Other business activities that are not separately reportable segments are SJWC’s Cupertino service concession arrangement operations, TWOS, TWR, NEWUS, SJW Land Company and Chester Realty, Inc. and are collectively referred to as “Other Services.”
Critical Accounting Estimates
SJW Group has identified accounting estimates delineated below as estimates critical to its business operations and the understanding of the results of operations. The preparation of consolidated financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and revenues and expenses during the reporting period. SJW Group bases its estimates on historical experience and other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. For a detailed discussion on the application of these and other accounting policies, see Note 2 of “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.” SJW Group’s critical accounting estimates are as follows: Recognition of Regulatory Assets and Liabilities
Generally accepted accounting principles for water utilities include the recognition of regulatory assets and liabilities as permitted by ASC Topic 980. In accordance with ASC Topic 980, Water Utility Services, to the extent applicable, records regulatory assets for incurred costs that are deemed probable of recovery from customers. Also, Water Utility Services recognizes regulatory liabilities for amounts expected to be refunded to customers in the rate-making process and for amounts collected in advance of the related expenditures. Regulatory assets or liabilities are also recognized for special revenue programs such as WCMA and WRA in accordance with guidance on alternative revenue programs under ASC Topic 980, including the requirement that such revenues will be collected within 24 months of the year-end in which the revenue is recorded. A reserve is recorded for amounts SJW Group estimates will not be collected within the 24-month period. This reserve is based on an estimate of actual usage over the recovery period. The WCMA allows SJWC to track revenue, net of related water costs, associated with reduced sales due to water conservation and associated calls for water use reduction. SJWC records the lost revenue captured in the WCMA balancing accounts, including amounts related to a 20-basis point reduction in the authorized return on equity per the terms of the WCMA. Applicable drought surcharges collected are used to offset the revenue losses tracked in the WCMA. WRA, a decoupling mechanism authorized by PURA for CWC, mitigates risks associated with changes in demand. The WRA is used to reconcile actual water demands with the demands projected in the most recent general rate case and allows the company to implement a surcharge or sur-credit as necessary to recover or refund the revenues approved in the general rate case. The WRA allows the company to defer, as a regulatory asset or liability, the amount by which actual revenues deviate from the revenues allowed in the most recent general rate proceedings. Application of ASC Topic 980, including determining whether recovery is probable, requires significant judgement by management and includes assessing evidence that may exist prior to regulatory authorization, including regulatory rules and decisions, historical ratemaking practices, and other facts and circumstances that would indicate the recovery or refund is probable. The regulatory assets and liabilities recorded by Water Utility Services primarily relate to asset removal costs, the recognition of deferred income taxes for ratemaking versus tax accounting purposes, balancing and memorandum accounts, pensions and other postretirement benefits, and employee benefit costs. The disallowance of any asset in future ratemaking, including regulatory assets, would require Water Utility Services to immediately recognize the impact of the costs for financial reporting purposes. There were no material disallowances recognized during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022.
Recognition of Balancing and Memorandum Accounts
Balancing and memorandum accounts are primarily utilized by our California operations. The purpose of a balancing account is to track the under-collection or over-collection associated with expense changes and the revenue authorized by the CPUC to offset those expense changes. Pursuant to Section 792.5 of the California Public Utilities Code, a balancing account must be maintained for expense items for which revenue offsets have been authorized. Balancing and memorandum accounts are recognized by SJWC when it is probable that future recovery of previously incurred costs or future refunds that are to be credited to customers will occur through the ratemaking process.
Balancing accounts are currently being maintained for the following items in California: purchased water, purchased power, groundwater extraction charges, pensions, group health insurance, and general rate case and cost of capital true-ups. The amount in the water production balancing accounts varies with the seasonality of the water utility business such that, during the summer months when the demand for water is at its peak, the account tends to reflect an under-collection, while during the winter months when demand for water is relatively lower, the account tends to reflect an over-collection. The pension and group health insurance balancing accounts are intended to capture the difference between actual expense and the amount approved in rates by the CPUC. The general rate case true-up accounts are a result of revenue shortfalls authorized for collection or refund by the CPUC due to delayed rate case and cost of capital decisions. The MWRAM tracks the difference between the revenue received for actual metered sales through the tiered volumetric rate and the revenue that would have been received with the same actual metered sales if a uniform rate would have been in effect.
SJWC also maintains memorandum accounts to track impacts due to catastrophic events, certain unforeseen water quality expenses related to new federal and state water quality standards, energy efficiency, water conservation, water tariffs, and other approved activities or as directed by the CPUC.
In assessing the probability criteria for balancing and memorandum accounts between general rate cases, SJWC considers evidence that may exist prior to CPUC authorization that would satisfy ASC Topic 980 subtopic 340-25 recognition criteria. Such evidence may include regulatory rules and decisions, past practices, and other facts and circumstances that would indicate that recovery or refund is probable. When such evidence provides sufficient support, the balances are recorded in SJW Group’s financial statements.
It is typical for the CPUC to incorporate any over-collected and/or under-collected balances in balancing or memorandum accounts into customer rates at the time rate decisions are made as part of SJWC’s general rate case proceedings by assessing temporary surcredits and/or surcharges. In the case where SJWC’s balancing or memorandum-type accounts that have been authorized by the CPUC reach certain thresholds or have termination dates, SJWC can request the CPUC to recognize the amounts in customer rates prior to the next regular general rate case proceeding by filing an advice letter.
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price paid over the estimated fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition of a business. Goodwill is not amortized but is tested for impairment annually on October 1st or more frequently if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. SJW Group first performs a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is necessary to perform the quantitative impairment test. In assessing the qualitative factors, SJW Group considers the impact of these key factors: change in industry and competitive environment, financial performance, macroeconomic conditions, and other relevant Company-specific events. If SJW Group determines that as a result of the qualitative assessment it is more likely than not (> 50% likelihood) that the fair value is less than carrying amount, then a quantitative test is performed. SJW Group performed an impairment analysis as of October 1, 2024. The qualitative assessment found no indicators of impairment and therefore SJW Group did not perform the quantitative impairment test. No impairments occurred during the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 or 2022.
Factors Affecting Our Results of Operations
SJW Group’s financial condition and results of operations are influenced by a variety of factors including the following:
•Economic utility regulation;
•Infrastructure investment;
•Compliance with environmental, health and safety standards;
•Production expenses;
•Customer growth;
•Water usage per customer;
•Weather conditions, seasonality and sources of water supply; and
•Merger and acquisition activities, if any.
Economic Utility Regulation
Water Utility Services is generally subject to economic regulation by the Regulators overseeing public utilities. Regulatory policies vary from state to state and may change over time. In addition, there may be regulatory lag between the time a capital investment is made, a consumption decrease occurs, or an operating expense increases and when those items are adjusted in utility rates.
SJWC employs a forward-looking test year and has been authorized to use several mechanisms to mitigate risks faced due to regulatory lag and new and changing legislation, policies and regulation. These include memorandum accounts to track revenue impacts due to catastrophic events, certain unforeseen water quality expenses related to new federal and state water quality standards, energy efficiency, water conservation, water tariffs, and other approved activities or as directed by the CPUC. Rate recovery for the balances in these memorandum accounts is generally allowed in a subsequent general rate case. SJWC also maintains balancing accounts to track changes in purchased water, purchased power, groundwater extraction charges, pension costs, and group health insurance expenses for later rate recovery. Regulatory risk in California is mitigated by use of a forward-looking test year which allows the return on and return of utility plant on a forecasted basis as it is placed in service, and in some cases interim rate relief is allowed in the event of regulatory lag. The CPUC permits its regulated utilities to acquire other utilities if the proposed sale and asset purchase transaction is determined to be in the public interest. Under Public Utilities Code § 2720, the purchase price, subject to a reasonable test involving appraisals from the acquirer as well as the Public Advocates Office, represents the Fair Market Value. Upon CPUC approval, acquiring utilities can include the Fair Market Value in rate base.
Pursuant to Connecticut regulations, CWC employs a historical test year. To address regulatory risk due to regulatory lag and changing legislation policies and regulations, rate cases may be filed as necessary in Connecticut. Additionally, to mitigate regulatory lag for pipeline replacement and conservation related projects, the Connecticut State Legislature has approved WICA that allows for a surcharge to be added to customer bills semi-annually for certain eligible pre-approved projects. The intended purpose of WICA is to enable the acceleration of the rate of replacement and/or rehabilitation of existing water system infrastructure to mitigate the effect of decay of aging water systems and promote conservation measures. In order to incentivize water utilities to conserve water, the Connecticut State Legislature created WRA in Connecticut in 2013. With the passage, CWC is no longer incentivized to sell more water and can encourage conservation of precious resources, removing financial disincentives to pursue water conservation.
Pursuant to Texas regulation, TWC employs a historical test year. To address regulatory risk due to regulatory lag and changing legislation policies and regulations, rate cases may be filed as necessary in Texas, provided there is no current rate case outstanding. Further, rate cases may not be filed more frequently than once every 12 months. Additionally, to mitigate regulatory lag for capital improvements, Texas has implemented its first SIC. The SIC allows TWC to earn a return on some of its capital improvements made after 2020 through a surcharge to its customers. The SIC is a cost recovery mechanism that was adopted by the PUCT in 2021 and avoids the immediate need for a general rate case. The PUCT permits the acquisition of utilities using a process termed the Fair Market Value. This process brings in three appraisers to determine the market value of a system which the acquiring utility can apply as the value of utility plant included in rate base. In addition, after recent legislation the PUCT adopted rules allowing the application of the Filed Rate Doctrine. This allows water utilities the option of applying their previously approved rates to the customers of newly acquired systems, which encourages consolidation by minimizing rate case expenses.
Pursuant to Maine regulations, MWC employs a historical test year. To address regulatory risk due to regulatory lag and changing legislation policies and regulations, rate cases may be filed as necessary in Maine. Additionally, to mitigate regulatory lag for all infrastructure replacements (except meters), the Maine State Legislature has approved of WISC that allows for a surcharge to be added to customer bills semi-annually for certain pre-approved projects.
Infrastructure Investment
The water utility business is capital-intensive. In 2024 and 2023, company-funded capital improvements were $353,029 and $271,772, respectively, for additions to, or replacements of, property, plant and equipment for our Water Utility Services. We plan to spend approximately $451,000 in 2025 and $1,900,000 over the next five years for capital improvements. SJW Group funds these expenditures through a variety of sources, including earnings received from operations, debt and equity financing, and other borrowings. SJW Group relies upon lines of credit to fund capital expenditures in the short term and has historically issued long-term debt to refinance our short-term debt. While our ability to obtain financing will continue to be a key risk, we believe that based on our successful 2024 activities, we will have access to the external funding sources necessary to implement
our ongoing capital investment programs in the future. See discussion below under “Liquidity and Capital Resources” for additional information on capital expenditures.
Compliance with Environmental, Health and Safety Standards
Water Utility Services’ operations are subject to water quality and pollution control regulations issued by the EPA and environmental laws and regulations administered by the respective states and local regulatory agencies. Under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act, Water Utility Services is subject to regulation by the EPA of the quality of water it sells and treatment techniques it uses to make the water potable. The EPA promulgates nationally applicable standards, including maximum contaminant levels for drinking water. Water Utility Services has implemented monitoring activities and installed specific water treatment improvements enabling it to comply with existing maximum contaminant levels and plan for compliance with future drinking water regulations. However, the EPA and the respective state agencies have continuing authority to issue additional regulations under the Safe Drinking Water Act. Water Utility Services incur substantial costs associated with compliance with environmental, health and safety and water quality regulation to which our water services are subject.
In April 2024, the EPA issued new national primary drinking water regulations for six PFAS substances. The regulations impose maximum contaminant levels and monitoring requirements for the nation’s water system for six PFAS chemicals under the Safe Drinking Water Act. The final regulation requires water systems to comply with PFAS monitoring and reporting requirements by 2027, and to comply with the maximum contaminant levels by 2029. SJW Group estimates capital expenditures of approximately $300,000 for PFAS treatment based on finalized maximum contaminant levels. See discussion below under “Liquidity and Capital Resources” for additional information on capital expenditures.
Environmental, health and safety, and water quality regulations are complex and change frequently, and the overall trend has been that they have become more stringent over time. It is possible that new or more stringent environmental standards and water quality regulations could be imposed that will increase Water Utility Services’ water quality compliance costs, hamper Water Utility Services’ available water supplies, and increase future capital expenditures. Future drinking water regulations may require increased monitoring, additional treatment of underground water supplies, fluoridation of all supplies, more stringent performance standards for treatment plants and procedures to further reduce levels of disinfection by-products. In the past, Water Utility Services have generally been able to recover expenses associated with compliance related to environmental, health and safety standards, but future recoveries could be affected by regulatory lag and the corresponding uncertainties surrounding rate recovery.
Production Expenses
Water Utility Services’ operations require significant production inputs which result in substantial production expenses. These expenses include power, which is used to operate pumps and other equipment, purchased water and groundwater extraction charges. For 2024, production expenses accounted for 51% of our total operating expenses. Price increases associated with these production inputs would adversely impact our results of operations until rate relief is granted. However, for SJWC, the FCBA mitigates the cost of the water supply from changes and variations in quantities from each of these sources which affect the overall mix of the water supply.
Customer Growth
Customer growth in Water Utility Services is driven by: (i) organic population growth within our authorized service areas and (ii) the addition of new customers to our regulated customer base by acquiring regulated water systems adjacent to or near our existing service territories. We did not have any cash outflows for business acquisitions in 2024. During 2023 and 2022, we had cash outflows of 7,537 and $433, respectively, for business acquisitions which we believe will allow SJW Group to expand our regulated customer base. Before entering new regulated markets, we evaluate the regulatory environment to ensure that we will have the opportunity to achieve an appropriate rate of return on our investment while maintaining our high standards for quality, reliability and compliance with environmental, health and safety, and water quality standards.
Water Usage Per Customer
Fluctuations in customer demand for water could be due to seasonality, restrictions of use, weather or lifestyle choices, all of which could affect our results of operations.
The following is the change in customer usage in 2024 compared to 2023:
•SJWC residential usage increased 6.7% and business usage increased 5.8%.
•TWC residential and business usage decreased 13.0%.
•CWC residential usage increased 1.1% and business usage increased 2.9%.
•MWC residential usage increased 3.4% and business usage increased 14.6%.
For the year ended December 31, 2024, SJWC’s residential usage was lower by 9.3% and business usage was higher by 2.6%, respectively, than the amount authorized in our 2022-2024 general rate case. SJWC’s service area is currently under a voluntary 15% reduction of water consumption from its water wholesaler. To address the difference between conservation usage and authorized usage in the rate case, the CPUC has approved the activation of the WCMA. The WCMA is a temporary revenue protection mechanism, due to the voluntary 15% water reduction request, which tracks the divergence between authorized versus actual consumption in a balancing account for future recovery.
With the availability of the WRA in Connecticut, which allows for recovery of authorized revenues, decreases in consumption year to year do not present the same financial risk as in our other water utility services utilities.
Weather Conditions, Seasonality and Sources of Water Supply
Our ability to meet the existing and future water demands of our customers depends on an adequate supply of water. Drought, governmental restrictions, overuse of sources of water, the protection of threatened species or habitats or other factors may limit the availability of ground and surface water. Also, customer usage of water is affected by weather conditions, in particular during the warmer months. Our water systems experience higher demand in the summer due to the warmer temperatures and increased usage by customers for outside irrigation of lawns and landscaping. In periods of drought, if customers are encouraged or required to conserve water due to a shortage of supply or restriction of use, revenue tends to be lower. Water use restrictions may be imposed at a regional or state level and may affect our service areas regardless of our readiness to meet unrestricted customer demands. Similarly, in unusually wet periods, water supply tends to be higher and customer demand tends to be lower, again resulting in lower revenues.
SJWC believes that its various sources of water supply, which consists of groundwater from wells, surface water from watershed run-off and diversion, reclaimed water, and purchased imported water, will be sufficient to meet customer demand for 2025. In addition, SJWC actively works with Valley Water to address California’s long-term water supply challenges by continuing to educate customers on responsible water use practices and to conduct long-range water supply planning. CWC and MWC believe that they will be able to meet customer demand for 2025 with their existing water supply which consists of groundwater from wells, surface water in reservoirs and purchased water treated by neighboring water utilities. TWC expects to meet customer demand for 2025 with TWC’s water supply which consists of groundwater from wells, surface water and purchased treated and raw water from the GBRA.
Results of Operations
Water sales are seasonal in nature and influenced by weather conditions. The timing of precipitation and climatic conditions can cause seasonal water consumption by customers to vary significantly. Revenue is generally higher in the warm, dry summer months when water usage and sales are greater and lower in the winter months when cooler temperatures and increased rainfall curtail water usage and sales.
See Item 1, “Business” and Item 1A, “Risk Factors” for a discussion of SJW Group’s general business and regulatory activities. Overview
SJW Group’s consolidated net income for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $93,967, compared to $84,987 for the same period in 2023. This represents an increase of $8,980 or 11%, from 2023. The increase in net income was primarily driven by rate increases in California and Connecticut, higher customer usage, decreases in the allowance for credit losses, lower income tax expense attributable to a tax accounting method change, partially offset by higher water production expenses, higher administrative and general expenses, and higher depreciation and amortization expense primarily related to new utility plant additions.
Operating Revenue
SJW Group has a single reportable segment, Water Utility Services. All other business activities not separately reportable are included in “Other Services.” Effective in the fourth quarter of 2024, management updated its segment presentation and no longer presents a separate reportable segment for Real Estate Services. Prior period information has been recast to conform to the current period presentation. Operating revenue for the Water Utility Services reportable segment and Other Services was as follows:
Operating Revenue
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2022 |
| Water Utility Services | $ | 732,580 | | | 652,045 | | | 603,000 | |
| Other Services | 15,859 | | | 18,318 | | | 17,698 | |
| Total operating revenue | $ | 748,439 | | | 670,363 | | | 620,698 | |
The change in consolidated operating revenue was due to the following factors:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | 2024 vs. 2023 Increase/(decrease) | | 2023 vs. 2022 Increase/(decrease) |
| Water Utility Services: | | | | | | | |
| Consumption changes | $ | 14,861 | | | 2 | % | | $ | (5,933) | | | (1) | % |
| Increase in customers | 2,532 | | | — | % | | 3,929 | | | — | % |
| Rate increases for: | | | | | | | |
Pass-through water costs1 | 26,057 | | | 4 | % | | 22,320 | | | 4 | % |
All other increases2 | 36,076 | | | 5 | % | | 23,045 | | | 4 | % |
Regulatory mechanisms3 | (6,633) | | | (1) | % | | 5,684 | | | 1 | % |
| Service and other revenue | 7,642 | | | 2 | % | | — | | | — | % |
| Other Services | (2,459) | | | — | % | | 620 | | | — | % |
| Total change in operating revenue | $ | 78,076 | | | 12 | % | | $ | 49,665 | | | 8 | % |
____________________
(1) Consists of rate increases specifically associated with changes in the water supply costs that are passed through to customers.
(2) Primarily associated with general rate cases and related annual escalation adjustments, infrastructure surcharges, and cost of capital adjustments.
(3) Excludes portion attributable to rate increases, which are shown in the rate increase lines above.
2024 vs. 2023
The revenue increase consists of $80,535 from Water Utility Services offset by a decrease of $2,459 from Other Services.
The revenue increase for Water Utility Services is primarily due to an increase in authorized rates in California and Connecticut, which resulted in an additional $36,076 in revenue, an increase in rates of $26,057 attributable to water supply costs that are passed through to customers, an increase of $14,861 due to higher usage, an increase of $2,532 from new customers, and increases in services and other revenue of $7,642, partially offset by decreases of $6,633 in other regulatory mechanisms and a decrease of $2,459 in Other Services. The decrease in Other Services is primarily attributable to lower real estate activity.
2023 vs. 2022
The revenue increase consists of $49,045 from Water Utility Services and $620 from Other Services.
The revenue increase for Water Utility Services is primarily due to an increase in authorized rates in California and Maine which resulted in $23,045 of additional revenue, an increase in rates of $22,320 attributable to water supply costs that are passed through to customers, an increase of $3,929 from new customers, and regulatory mechanisms of $5,684, partially offset by decreases of $5,933 due to lower usage.
Water Utility Services’ Operating Revenue and Customer Counts
The following tables present operating revenues and the number of customers by customer group of Water Utility Services:
Operating Revenue by Customer Group
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2022 |
| Residential and business | $ | 625,080 | | | 557,659 | | | 501,111 | |
| Industrial | 5,099 | | | 4,693 | | | 5,229 | |
| Public authorities | 27,446 | | | 23,755 | | | 22,027 | |
| Others | 55,494 | | | 54,166 | | | 47,896 | |
| Balancing and memorandum accounts and other regulatory mechanisms | 11,819 | | | 11,772 | | | 26,736 | |
| Service and other revenue | 7,642 | | | — | | | — | |
| $ | 732,580 | | | 652,045 | | | 602,999 | |
Number of Customers
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2022 |
| Residential and business | 384,619 | | | 383,126 | | | 379,781 | |
| Industrial | 592 | | | 591 | | | 586 | |
| Public authorities | 2,370 | | | 2,387 | | | 2,351 | |
| Others | 11,060 | | | 10,983 | | | 10,910 | |
| 398,641 | | | 397,087 | | | 393,628 | |
Operating Expense
Operating expense is summarized below:
Operating Expense
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2022 |
| Water Utility Services | $ | 560,364 | | | 506,923 | | | 473,142 | |
| Other Services | 10,513 | | | 10,408 | | | 13,255 | |
| Unallocated Corporate | 7,059 | | | 3,597 | | | 3,323 | |
| $ | 577,936 | | | 520,928 | | | 489,720 | |
The change in consolidated operating expenses was due to the following factors:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | 2024 vs. 2023 Increase/(decrease) |
| Water production expenses: | | | |
| Change in surface water use | $ | 5,181 | | | 1 | % |
| Change in usage | 10,254 | | | 2 | % |
| Change in new customers | (156) | | | — | % |
| Purchased water and groundwater extraction charge, energy price change and other production expenses, net | 25,035 | | | 5 | % |
| Balancing and memorandum account cost recovery | (4,492) | | | (1) | % |
| Total water production expenses | 35,822 | | | 7 | % |
| Administrative and general | 7,174 | | | 2 | % |
| Maintenance | 5,572 | | | 1 | % |
| Property taxes and other non-income taxes | 1,453 | | | — | % |
| Depreciation and amortization | 6,987 | | | 1 | % |
| $ | 57,008 | | | 11 | % |
Sources of Water Supply
SJWC’s water supply consists of groundwater from wells, surface water from watershed run-off and diversion, reclaimed water, and imported water purchased from Valley Water under the terms of a master contract with Valley Water expiring in 2051. Surface water is sourced from SJWC’s 6,400 acres of watershed in the Santa Cruz mountains. SJWC’s FCBA mitigates the cost of the water supply from changes and variations in quantities from each of these sources which affect the overall mix of the water supply. The water rates for purchased water and the groundwater extraction charge may be increased by Valley Water at any time. If an increase occurs, then SJWC would file an advice letter with the CPUC seeking authorization to increase revenues to offset the rate increase.
CWC’s water sources vary among the individual systems, but overall, approximately 60% of the total dependable yield comes from surface water supplies and 40% from wells. In addition, CWC has water supply agreements to supplement its water supply with RWA and MDC that expire in 2058 and 2053, respectively.
TWC’s water supply consists of groundwater from wells and purchased treated and raw water from the GBRA. TWC has long-term agreements with the GBRA, which expire in 2037, 2040, 2044 and 2050. The agreements, which are take-or-pay contracts, provide TWC with an aggregate of 7,602 acre-feet of water per year from Canyon Lake at prices that may be adjusted periodically by GBRA. TWC also has raw water supply agreements with the LCRA and WTCPUA expiring in 2059 and 2046, respectively, to provide for 350 acre-feet of water per year from Lake Austin and the Colorado River, respectively, at prices that may be adjusted periodically by the agencies. Forty active production wells located in a Comal Trinity Groundwater Conservation District, a regulated portion of the Trinity aquifer, are charged a groundwater pump tax based upon usage.
In August 2023, SJWTX Holdings Inc.’s unregulated subsidiary, TWR, acquired eight wells and the water rights of KTR, for a total cost of $40,061. During the third quarter of 2024, TWC purchased these assets from TWR for use in utility operations. Accordingly, SJW Group reclassified $28,386 related to indefinite lived water rights from other intangible assets to utility plant intangible assets and $11,684 from nonutility property to utility plant. These wells have been projected to yield an additional 6,000 acre-feet per year or more. TWC staff is currently working on acquiring easements and routing of the waterline and infrastructure needed to get this water into our Triple Peak water system to serve existing customers and planned new developments.
The Texas service area is currently experiencing drought conditions that result in water usage restrictions for customers. Significant future capital investment of transmission main and storage facilities in addition to developing additional supply sources is planned for 2025 and beyond.
Water sources at MWC vary among the individual systems, but overall, approximately 90% of the total dependable yield comes from surface water supplies and 10% from wells. MWC has a water supply agreement with the Kennebec Water District expiring in 2040.
The following table presents the sources of water supply:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Source of Water Supply |
| | 2024 | | 2023 |
| | (billion gallons) |
| Purchased water | 17.8 | | 19.5 |
| Groundwater | 18.6 | | 14.6 |
| Surface water | 11.8 | | 12.4 |
| Reclaimed water | 0.8 | | 0.8 |
| 49.0 | | 47.3 |
| Average water production expense per billion gallons | $5.956 million | | $5.420 million |
The percentages of water supply by source excluding reclaimed water by state is presented below:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Purchased Water | | Groundwater | | Surface Water | | |
| | 2024 | | 2023 | | 2024 | | 2023 | | 2024 | | 2023 | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| California | 48 | % | | 54 | % | | 41 | % | | 32 | % | | 9 | % | | 12 | % | | | | | | |
| Connecticut | 6 | % | | 6 | % | | 39 | % | | 36 | % | | 55 | % | | 58 | % | | | | | | |
| Maine | 2 | % | | 2 | % | | 6 | % | | 7 | % | | 91 | % | | 91 | % | | | | | | |
| Texas | 13 | % | | 17 | % | | 37 | % | | 34 | % | | 50 | % | | 49 | % | | | | | | |
Water production in 2024 increased by 1.7 billion gallons from 2023. The changes are primarily attributable to changes in consumption by customers driven primarily by weather conditions in our service areas.
The contract water rates for SJWC are determined by Valley Water. These rates are adjusted periodically and coincide with Valley Water’s fiscal year, which ends on June 30. The contract water rate for Valley Water’s fiscal years 2025, 2024 and 2023 was $7.194 million, $6.411 million, and $5.644 million per billion gallons, respectively. The contractual cost of the groundwater extraction charge for water pumped from the ground basin was $6.840 million, $6.058 million, and $5.290 million per billion gallons for Valley Water’s fiscal years 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
CWC has an agreement with RWA to purchase water from RWA. The agreement was signed in April 2006 and became effective upon the receipt of all regulatory approvals in 2008 and will remain in effect for a minimum of 50 years upon becoming effective. In addition, CWC is able, but under no obligation, to purchase up to one million gallons of water per day at the then-current wholesale rates per the agreement, $3.1 million per billion gallons as of December 31, 2024. CWC has an agreement with MDC to purchase water from MDC to serve the Unionville system. The agreement became effective on October 6, 2000 and has a term of 50 years beginning May 19, 2003, the date the water supply facilities related to the agreement were placed in service. CWC has agreed to purchase 0.28 billion gallons of water annually from MDC at the published retail rate, three dollars and eighty cents per hundred cubic feet as of December 31, 2024.
MWC has an agreement with the Kennebec Water District for potable water service. The agreement has been in place for 20 years and was extended on November 7, 2020 for a new term of up to 20 years. MWC guarantees a minimum consumption of 0.05 billion gallons of water annually. Water sales to MWC are billed at a wholesale discount of twenty cents per hundred cubic feet of water below Kennebec Water District's tariffed rates. The current tariff rate was one dollar and fifty-one cents per hundred cubic feet as of December 31, 2024.
The various components of operating expenses are discussed below.
Water production expenses
Water production expenses increased $25,035 due to higher per unit costs paid for purchased water, groundwater extraction, energy price charges and other production expenses, $10,254 due to higher customer usage, and an increase of $5,181 as a result of decreased availability of California surface water in 2024 compared to 2023, offset by a decrease of $4,492 in water production balancing and memorandum accounts for the FCBA.
Administrative and General Expense
Administrative and general expenses include payroll related to administrative and general functions, all employee benefits charged to expense accounts, insurance expenses, legal fees, regulatory utility commissions’ expenses, expenses associated with being a public company, and general corporate expenses.
Administrative and general expense increased $7,174 in 2024, or 2% of total operating expenses from 2023, primarily due to expenses associated with certain acquisition evaluation and due diligence activities of $3,393, and an increase for pension expense, contracted work, and inflationary increases, offset by decreases in the allowance for credit losses of $6,082 and higher allocations to construction activities.
Maintenance Expense
Maintenance expenses increased $5,572 in 2024 or 1% of total operating expenses from 2023, primarily due to higher maintenance expenses related to contracted work for others, security expenses, and adjustments to certain regulatory assets as a result of the final decision in the Connecticut general rate case.
Property Taxes and Other Non-income Taxes
Property taxes and other non-income taxes for 2024 increased $1,453 from 2023. The increase was primarily the result of an increase in property taxes due to utility plant additions and payroll taxes due to increases in wages and headcount.
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation and amortization expense increased $6,987 in 2024 from 2023. The increases were primarily due to increases in depreciation related to new utility plant additions.
Other Income and Expense
The change in other (expense) income in 2024 compared to 2023 was primarily due to lower income from certain service and other activities, an increase in interest expense due to higher average balances and interest rates, and higher charitable contributions, offset by higher benefits from the non-service component of pension cost.
SJW Group’s consolidated weighted-average cost of long-term debt, including the amortization of debt issuance costs, was 4.12% and 3.97% for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023. Cost of borrowing on the lines of credit averaged 6.44% and 6.29% for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
Provision for Income Taxes
Income tax expense for 2024 was $8,970, compared to $5,956 in 2023. The effective consolidated income tax rate was 9% for 2024 and 7% for 2023. The increase in the effective income tax rate was primarily due to the year-over-year effect of the higher uncertain tax position reserve release in 2023 and tax deficiencies related to share-based payments in 2024, partially offset by the benefit of a tax accounting method change in 2024.
Please refer to Note 7, “Income Taxes,” of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a reconciliation of income tax computed at the federal statutory rate to actual income tax expense. Other Comprehensive Income
The change in other comprehensive income in 2024 compared to 2023 was primarily due to the change in the benefit obligation for CWC’s supplemental executive retirement plan primarily as a result of changes in the discount rate and the unrealized gain on its investments.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Water Utility Services’ business derives the majority of its revenue directly from residential and business customers. Management believes that the collection rate for its accounts receivables will continue to improve as service disconnections return to normal. On December 28, 2023, SJWC submitted the application through the State of California Water and Wastewater Arrearages Payment Program to relieve outstanding payment delinquencies for customer accounts greater than 60-days past due as of December 31, 2022. We received $9,130 in the second quarter of 2024 under the State of California Water and Wastewater Arrearages Payment Program.
Funds collected from Water Utility Services’ customers are used to pay for water production expenses, in addition to costs associated with general operations. Funds were also generated from borrowings. In 2024, SJW Group and its subsidiaries obtained $185,329 in funds from new long-term debt and $85,008 in funds from equity issuances. From these amounts, SJW Group funded its 2024 capital expenditure programs, refinanced certain short and long-term borrowings, and funded working
capital. See Note 4 and Note 6 of “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for discussion on the equity and debt financing activities of SJW Group. In addition, SJW Group paid cash dividends of $52,132 during the year ended December 31, 2024. In 2024, the common dividends declared and paid on SJW Group’s common stock represented 55% of net income. Dividends have been paid on SJW Group’s and its predecessor’s common stock for 325 consecutive quarters and the annual dividend amount has increased in each of the last 57 years. While historically SJW Group has generally paid dividends equal to approximately 50% to 60% of its net income, SJW Group cannot guarantee that this trend will continue in the future.
Cash Flow from Operations
In 2024, SJW Group generated cash flow from operations of $195,526 compared to $190,831 in 2023. Cash flow from operations is primarily generated by net income from revenue producing activities, adjusted for non-cash expenses for depreciation and amortization, deferred income taxes, share-based compensation, allowance for equity funds used during construction, gains on the sale of assets, and other changes in working capital items. Cash flow from operations increased in 2024 by $4,695. The increase was primarily due to a combination of the following factors: (1) an increase of $36,057 due to higher net income adjusted for non-cash items, (2) an increase of $4,060 attributable to tax accruals, and (3) an increase of $2,568 for other assets and liabilities, offset by (4) an up-front service concession fee payments related to Cupertino for $23,900, and (5) a decrease in collections against our regulatory assets and liabilities, which generated a decrease of $14,090.
Cash Flow from Investing Activities
Net cash used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2024, increased by $17,823 from the same period in the prior year, primarily as a result of an increase in company-funded capital expenditures of $81,257, an increase for developer-funded capital expenditures of $7,324, and an increase of $1,333 in utility plant retirement costs, offset by higher proceeds from sales of assets of $40,339 (primarily from the sale of SJW Land Company’s Tennessee real estate assets), lower additions to nonutility assets of $24,215, and a decrease of $7,537 in business acquisitions year over year.
Cash Flow from Financing Activities
Net cash provided by financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2024, increased by $17,140 from the same period in the prior year, primarily as a result of increase in cash proceeds from long-term debt, an increase in cash receipts of advances and contributions in aid of construction and issuances of common stock, partially offset by an increase in the amount of net repayments on our lines of credit, and an increase in payments of dividends. SJW Group’s cash management policy includes the issuance of long-term debt to pay down borrowings on our lines of credit. As such, during years when long-term borrowings are high, borrowings on our line of credit tend to be low and when long-term borrowings are low, borrowings on our line of credit tend to be high.
SJW Group and its subsidiaries have unsecured bank lines of credit totaling $350,000 as of December 31, 2024. Drawdowns on our lines of credit are restricted by our funded debt not exceeding a percentage of total capitalization as defined in our debt covenants. SJW Group expects to periodically draw down on its lines of credit as dictated by our funding needs and subsequently repay such borrowings with cash from operations and issuance of long-term debt or equity. See also “Sources of Capital” below.
Budgeted Capital Expenditures
Water Utility Services has budgeted 2025 capital expenditures of approximately $451,000, excluding capital expenditures financed by customer contributions and advances. The 2025 budget is comprised of as follows:
| | | | | | | | |
| | Budgeted Capital Expenditures 2025 |
| SJWC | | $ | 199,000 | |
| CWC | | 99,000 | |
| TWC | | 133,000 | |
| MWC | | 20,000 | |
| Total capital expenditures | | $ | 451,000 | |
The 2025 capital expenditures budget is concentrated in main replacements. Water Utility Services’ capital expenditures are incurred in connection with normal upgrading and expansion of existing facilities and to comply with environmental regulations. Over the next five years, Water Utility Services expects to incur approximately $1,900,000 in capital expenditures, which includes replacement of pipes and mains, maintaining water systems, and installing approximately $300,000 in PFAS treatment. A significant portion of this amount is subject to future respective state regulatory utility commissions’ approval.
Capital expenditures have the effect of increasing utility plant rate base on which Water Utility Services earns a return. Water Utility Services’ actual capital expenditures may vary from projections due to changes in the expected demand for services, weather patterns, actions by governmental agencies and general economic conditions. Total additions to utility plant normally exceed company-financed additions as a result of new facilities construction funded with advances from developers and contributions in aid of construction.
The Water Utility Services’ distribution systems were constructed during the period from the early 1900’s through today. Expenditure levels for renewal and modernization will occur as the components reach the end of their useful lives. In most cases, replacement cost will significantly exceed the original installation cost of the retired assets due to increases in the costs of goods and services and increased regulation.
In addition to these capital expenditures, Water Utility Services expects to incur approximately $105,000 over the next five years, including $22,000 in 2025, in capitalizable costs associated with cloud-based computing arrangements.
Sources of Capital
SJW Group’s ability to finance future construction programs and sustain dividend payments depends on its ability to maintain or increase internally generated funds and attract external financing. The level of future earnings and the related cash flow from operations is dependent, in large part, upon the timing and outcome of regulatory proceedings. SJW Group’s regulated operations’ financing activity is designed to achieve capital structures consistent with regulatory guidelines in the locations where the companies operate. See current authorized capital structures in Item 1, “Business” under “Regulation and Rates.” Short-term Financing Arrangements
SJW Group and its subsidiaries have unsecured line of credit agreements where borrowings are used to refinance existing debt, for working capital, and for general corporate purposes. A summary of the line of credit agreements as of December 31, 2024, and 2023 are as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | 2024 | | 2023 |
| Maturity Date | | Line Limit | | Amounts Outstanding | | Unused Portion | | Amounts Outstanding |
| Syndicated credit agreement: | August 2, 2029 | | | | | | | | |
| SJW Group | | | $ | 50,000 | | | 3,000 | | | 47,000 | | | 10,000 | |
| SJWC | | | 140,000 | | | 44,000 | | | 96,000 | | | 56,000 | |
| CTWS | | | 90,000 | | | 30,000 | | | 60,000 | | | 53,000 | |
| TWC | | | 20,000 | | | — | | | 20,000 | | | 2,500 | |
| Total syndicated credit agreement | | | 300,000 | | | 77,000 | | | 223,000 | | | 121,500 | |
| CTWS credit agreement | August 2, 2028 | | 10,000 | | | 2,124 | | | 7,876 | | | 10,000 | |
| CTWS credit agreement | May 15, 2025 | | 40,000 | | | 40,000 | | | — | | | 40,000 | |
| | | $ | 350,000 | | | 119,124 | | | 230,876 | | | 171,500 | |
In August 2024, SJW Group, SJWC, TWC, and CTWS entered into an amendment to its $300,000 credit agreement with JPMorgan Chase Bank and a syndicate of banks, which provided, among other matters, for an extension of the maturity date from August 2, 2028 to August 2, 2029.
CTWS does not intend to renew its $40,000 credit agreement following repayment at maturity in 2025.
Cost of borrowing on the lines of credit averaged 6.44% and 6.29% for the years ended of December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
All of SJW Group’s and subsidiaries’ lines of credit contain customary representations, warranties and events of default, as well as certain restrictive covenants customary for facilities of this type, including restrictions on indebtedness, liens, acquisitions and investments, restricted payments, asset sales, and fundamental changes. All of the lines of credit also include certain customary financial covenants such as a funded debt to capitalization ratio and a minimum interest coverage ratio. As of December 31, 2024, SJW Group and its subsidiaries were in compliance with all covenants on their lines of credit.
For additional information on SJW Group’s lines of credit, see Note 5 of “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.”
Long-term Financing Arrangements
SJW Group’s and its subsidiaries’ long-term debt activities are for purposes of refinancing short-term borrowings, funding capital expenditures and working capital, and repayments of maturing long-term debt. The following table summarizes the long-term debt issuances and repayments for the year ended December 31, 2024:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Issuance (Repayment) | | Activity Date | | Maturity Date |
| SJWC: | | | | | |
| Senior note, Series B, 7.37% | $ | (30,000) | | | January 2024 | | January 2024 |
| Senior note, Series J, 6.54% | (10,000) | | | February 2024 | | February 2024 |
| Senior note, Series Q, 5.63% | 75,000 | | | July 2024 | | July 2054 |
| CTWS: | | | | | |
| Bank term loan, 4.09% | (1,434) | | | 2024 | | December 2027 |
| Bank term loan, 4.15% | (635) | | | 2024 | | August 2037 |
| CWC: | | | | | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| Senior note, Series 2023, 6.46% | 25,000 | | | January 2024 | | January 2054 |
| Senior note, Series 2024, 5.78% | 50,000 | | | August 2024 | | July 2054 |
| State revolving fund loan, 2.00% | 327 | | | October 2024 | | July 2044 |
| MWC: | | | | | |
| | | | | |
| First Mortgage Bond, Series G, 8.95% | (900) | | | 2024 | | December 2024 |
| State revolving fund loans, various series, 0.00%-2.58% | (1,504) | | | 2024 | | 2025-2048 |
| Bank term loan, 4.24% | (4,500) | | | December 2024 | | December 2024 |
| Bank term loan, 6.473% | 15,000 | | | December 2024 | | November 2054 |
| TWC: | | | | | |
| Bank term loan, 6.473% | 20,000 | | | December 2024 | | November 2054 |
| $ | 136,354 | | | | | |
On November 15, 2023, CWC entered into a note purchase agreement with certain institutional investors, pursuant to which the company sold an aggregate principal amount of $25,000 of its 6.46% Senior Notes, Series 2023 (“Series 2023 Notes”). The Series 2023 Notes are unsecured obligations of CWC and are due on January 15, 2054. Interest is payable semi-annually in arrears on January 15th and July 15th of each year. The closing of the notes purchase agreement occurred on January 22, 2024.
On July 31, 2024, SJWC entered into and closed a note purchase agreement with certain institutional investors, pursuant to which the company sold an aggregate principal amount of $75,000 of its 5.63% Senior Notes, Series Q (“Series Q Notes”). The Series Q Notes are unsecured obligations of SJWC and are due on July 31, 2054. Interest is payable semi-annually in arrears on January 31st and July 31st of each year.
On July 31, 2024, CWC entered into a note purchase agreement with certain institutional investors, pursuant to which the company sold an aggregate principal amount of $50,000 of its 5.78% Senior Notes, Series 2024 (“Series 2024 Notes”). The Series 2024 Notes are unsecured obligations of CWC and are due on July 31, 2054. Interest is payable semi-annually in arrears on January 31st and July 31st of each year. The closing of the notes purchase agreement occurred in August 2024.
On December 6, 2024, MWC issued a promissory note to a national cooperative bank under an existing master loan agreement for a principal amount of $15,000 at a fixed interest rate of 6.47%. The note is an unsecured obligation of MWC due on November 20, 2054. Interest is payable quarterly in arrears on the 20th day of January, April, July and October of each year.
On December 6, 2024, TWC issued a promissory note to a national cooperative bank under an existing master loan agreement for a principal amount of $20,000 at a fixed interest rate of 6.47%. The note is an unsecured obligation of TWC due on November 20, 2054. Interest is payable quarterly in arrears on the 20th day of January, April, July and October of each year. In January 2025, TWC amended the existing master loan agreement to modify one of the financial covenants. All of the other terms and conditions remain the same.
The debt and credit agreements of SJW Group and its subsidiaries contain various financial and other covenants. Non-compliance with these covenants could result in accelerated due dates and termination of the agreements. In addition, the credit agreements contain customary representations and warranties and are subject to customary events of default, which may result
in the outstanding debt becoming immediately due and payable. As of December 31, 2024, SJW Group and its subsidiaries were in compliance with all covenants related to its long-term debt agreements.
For additional information, see Note 6 of “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.” Equity Financing Arrangements
In March 2023, SJW Group entered into Amendment No. 1 to the equity distribution agreement (the “Equity Distribution Agreement”), dated November 17, 2021, between SJW Group and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, Janney Montgomery Scott LLC, RBC Capital Markets, LLC and Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, pursuant to which the company offered and sold shares of its common stock, $0.001 par value per share, from time to time in “at-the-market” offerings, having an aggregate gross sales price of up to $240,000. The Equity Distribution Agreement was replaced by a new equity distribution agreement in October 2024, as discussed below. Through the Equity Distribution Agreement, SJW Group issued and sold 3,151,433 shares of common stock at a weighted average price of $67.80 for a total net proceeds of $208,838 over the life of the agreement.
On October 29, 2024, SJW Group entered into an equity distribution agreement (the “New Equity Distribution Agreement”) with BofA Securities, Inc., J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, RBC Capital Markets, LLC and Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, pursuant to which the company may offer and sell shares of its common stock, $0.001 par value per share, from time to time in “at-the-market” offerings, having an aggregate gross sales price of up to $200,000. Since the inception of the New Equity Distribution Agreement, SJW Group has issued and sold 375,513 shares of common stock at a weighted average price of $55.46 for a total net proceeds of $20,167 and has $179,175 of aggregate gross sales price of shares remaining to issue under the New Equity Distribution Agreement as of December 31, 2024.
For the year ended December 31, 2024, SJW Group issued and sold a total of 1,522,289 shares of common stock with a weighted average price of $57.15 per share and received $85,008 in net proceeds under the aforementioned equity distribution agreements.
Credit Rating
The condition of the capital and credit markets or the strength of financial institutions could impact SJW Group’s ability to draw on its lines of credit, issue long-term debt, sell its equity or earn interest income. In addition, government policies, the state of the credit markets and other factors could result in increased interest rates, which would increase SJW Group’s cost of capital. While our ability to obtain financing will continue to be a risk, we believe that based on our 2024 and 2023 activities, we will have access to the external funding sources necessary to implement our ongoing capital investment programs in the future. SJW Group, CTWS and CWC were put on negative watch on September 19, 2023. Standard & Poor’s noted the change in outlook is due to recent regulatory and legislative developments in Connecticut that are not consistent with Standard & Poor’s view of the regulatory framework for investor-owned utilities.
The following table are the current Standard & Poor’s Rating Service assigned company ratings:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Entity | | Rating | | Outlook |
| SJW Group | | A- | | Negative |
| SJWC | | A | | Stable |
| CTWS | | A- | | Negative |
| CWC | | A- | | Negative |
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangement/Contractual Obligations
SJW Group has no significant contractual obligations not fully recorded on its Consolidated Balance Sheet or not fully disclosed in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
SJW Group’s contractual obligations and commitments as of December 31, 2024 are as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Total | | Contractual Obligations Due in |
| | Less than
1 Year | | 1-3
Years | | 3-5
Years | | After
5 Years |
| Senior notes, Water Utility Services | $ | 790,000 | | | — | | | 15,000 | | | 15,000 | | | 760,000 | |
| Bank term loans, Water Utility Services | 221,295 | | | — | | | 5,000 | | | 17,020 | | | 199,275 | |
| Advances for construction, SJWC (1) | 58,495 | | | 2,997 | | | 5,706 | | | 5,386 | | | 44,406 | |
| California Pollution Control Financing Authority Revenue Bond, SJWC | 70,000 | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 70,000 | |
| Connecticut Innovations Revenue Bonds, CWC | 22,050 | | | — | | | — | | | 22,050 | | | — | |
| State revolving fund loans, CWC | 327 | | | 16 | | | 33 | | | 33 | | | 245 | |
| State revolving fund loans, MWC | 12,763 | | | 1,490 | | | 2,234 | | | 2,142 | | | 6,897 | |
| Senior notes, SJW Group | 560,000 | | | — | | | — | | | 310,000 | | | 250,000 | |
| Bank term loans, CTWS | 14,389 | | | 2,158 | | | 3,368 | | | 1,536 | | | 7,327 | |
| | | | | | | | | |
| Seller financing debt, TWC (2) | 29,000 | | | — | | | 1,133 | | | 2,145 | | | 25,722 | |
| Total contractual cash obligation | $ | 1,778,319 | | | 6,661 | | | 32,474 | | | 375,312 | | | 1,363,872 | |
| Total interest on contractual obligations | $ | 1,207,854 | | | 70,226 | | | 137,185 | | | 132,157 | | | 868,286 | |
___________________________________
(1) As of December 31, 2024, advances for construction were $155,397 of which $64,920 was related to non-refundable advances for construction and $31,983 was related to advances which are refundable based on service connections made.
(2) The timing of payments on the seller financing shown in the table above reflects management’s current estimate. The actual timing of payments will be based upon the actual quantities of groundwater produced from the acquired wells.
With regard to uncertain tax positions, no such amounts are reflected in the table above since we are unable to predict the timing of tax settlements as tax audits can involve complex issues and the resolution of those issues may span multiple years, particularly if subject to negotiation or litigation. For further discussion on uncertain tax positions, please see Note 7 of “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.” Water Supply Agreements
SJWC purchases water from Valley Water under terms of a master contract expiring in 2051. Delivery schedules for purchased water are based on a contract year beginning July 1, and are negotiated every three years under terms of the master contract with Valley Water. For the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, SJWC purchased from Valley Water 17.0 billion gallons ($117,698), 18.3 billion gallons ($111,173) and 18.2 billion gallons ($96,793), respectively, of contract water. On June 12, 2024, Valley Water Board of Directors approved treated water deliveries reflecting the contractual delivery schedule reduced by 23% through June 30, 2025. Based on current prices and estimated deliveries, SJWC is committed to purchase from Valley Water a minimum of 90% of the reduced delivery schedule, or 18.9 billion gallons ($135,975) of water at the current contract water rate of $7.19 million per billion gallons in the year ending December 31, 2025. Additionally, SJWC purchases non-contract water from Valley Water on an “as needed” basis if the water supply is available. The contract water rates for SJWC are determined by Valley Water. These rates are adjusted periodically and coincide with Valley Water’s fiscal year, which ends on June 30. The contract water rate for Valley Water’s fiscal years 2025, 2024 and 2023 was $7.194 million, $6.411 million, and $5.644 million per billion gallons, respectively. The contractual cost of the groundwater extraction charge for water pumped from the ground basin was $6.840 million, $6.058 million, and $5.290 million per billion gallons for Valley Water’s fiscal years 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
SJWC also pumps water from the local groundwater basin. There are no delivery schedules or contractual obligations associated with the purchase of groundwater. Valley Water determines the groundwater extraction charge and it is applied on a per unit basis. In addition to the Valley Water groundwater extraction charge, SJWC also incurs power costs to pump the groundwater from the basin.
CWC has an agreement with RWA to purchase water. The agreement was signed in April 2006 and became effective upon the receipt of all regulatory approvals in 2008 and will remain in effect for a minimum of 50 years upon becoming effective. CWC will pay RWA $75 per year as part of a capacity agreement, for a total of 14 years, starting on the effective date of the agreement. In addition, CWC has the option, but is under no obligation, to purchase up to one million gallons of water per day at the then current wholesale rates per the agreement ($3.1 million per billion gallons as of December 31, 2024). CWC has an agreement with the MDC to purchase water from MDC to serve the Unionville system. The agreement became effective on October 6, 2000 and has a term of 50 years beginning May 19, 2003, the date the water supply facilities related to the
agreement were placed in service. CWC has agreed to purchase 0.28 billion gallons of water annually from MDC. The rate charged by the MDC at December 31, 2024 were three dollars and eighty cents per hundred cubic feet.
MWC has an agreement with the Kennebec Water District for potable water service. The agreement has been in place for 20 years and was extended on November 7, 2020 for a new term of up to 20 years. MWC guarantees a minimum consumption of 50 million gallons of water annually. Water sales to MWC are billed at a wholesale discount of twenty cents per hundred cubic feet of water below Kennebec Water District's tariffed rates. The current tariff rate was one dollar and fifty-one cents per hundred cubic feet as of December 31, 2024.
TWC has long-term contracts with the GBRA. The agreements expire in 2037, 2040, 2044 and 2050. The agreements, which are take-or-pay contracts, provide TWC with 7,602 acre-feet per year of water supply from Canyon Lake. The water rate may be adjusted by GBRA at any time, provided GBRA gives TWC a 60-day written notice on the proposed adjustment. TWC also has raw water supply agreements with the LCRA and WTCPUA expiring in 2059 and 2046, respectively, for 350 acre-feet of water per each agreement per year from Lake Austin and the Colorado River, respectively, at prices that may be adjusted periodically by the agencies.
Employee Benefit Arrangements
SJWC and CTWS sponsor noncontributory defined benefit pension plans and provide health care and life insurance benefits for retired employees. In 2024, SJWC and CTWS contributed $8,007 and $7 to the pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans, respectively. In 2025, SJWC and CTWS expect to make required and discretionary cash contributions of up to $6,680 to the pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans. The amount of required contributions for years thereafter is not actuarially determinable.
SJWC’s other benefit obligations include employees’ and directors’ postretirement benefits, an Executive Supplemental Retirement Plan, Cash Balance Executive Supplemental Retirement Plan, Special Deferral Election Plan and Deferral Election Program for non-employee directors. Under these benefit plans, SJWC is committed to pay approximately $2,176 annually to former officers and directors. Future payments may fluctuate depending on the life span of the retirees and as current officers and executives retire.
CWC’s other benefit obligations include employees’ postretirement benefits, supplemental executive retirement agreements and deferred compensation agreements and plan. Future payments may fluctuate depending on the contribution rates of employees into the deferred compensation plan and the life span of the retirees and as current officers and executives retire. Under these benefit plans, CWC is committed to pay approximately $1,332, annually to former officers and directors.
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements and New Accounting Pronouncements
See Note 2 of “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for a discussion of recently adopted accounting pronouncements and new accounting pronouncements issued and pending adoption.
Item 7A.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
SJW Group is subject to market risks in the normal course of business, including changes in interest rates, pension plan asset values, and equity prices. The exposure to changes in interest rates can result from the issuance of debt and short-term funds obtained through the company’s variable rate lines of credit. SJW Group’s subsidiaries sponsor noncontributory pension and other postretirement plans for its employees. Pension and other postretirement costs and the funded status of the plans may be affected by a number of factors including the discount rate, mortality rates of plan participants, investment returns on plan assets, and pension reform legislation.
SJW Group has no derivative financial instruments, financial instruments with significant off-balance sheet risks, or financial instruments with concentrations of credit risk.
Item 8.Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the stockholders and the Board of Directors of SJW Group
Opinions on the Financial Statements and Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of SJW Group and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the related consolidated statements of comprehensive income, changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows, for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2024, and the related notes and the schedules listed in the Index at Item 15 (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). We also have audited the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2024, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“generally accepted accounting principles”). Also, in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by COSO.
Basis for Opinions
The Company’s management is responsible for the financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying “Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting.” Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements and an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud, and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.
Our audits of the financial statements included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures to respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
Critical Audit Matter
The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current-period audit of the financial statements that was communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (1) relates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate opinion on the critical audit matter or on the accounts or disclosures to which it relates.
Impact of Rate Regulation on the Financial Statements — Refer to Note 3 to the financial statements
Critical Audit Matter Description
The Company is subject to rate regulation by state utility regulatory agencies (the “Commissions”), which have jurisdiction with respect to the rates of the Company’s water and wastewater services. Management has determined it meets the requirements under generally accepted accounting principles to prepare its financial statements applying the specialized rules to account for the effects of cost-based rate regulation. Accounting for the economics of rate regulation impacts multiple financial statement line items and disclosures, such as depreciable utility plant; regulatory assets and liabilities; operating revenues; operation and maintenance expense; and depreciation expense.
The Commissions establish rates for the purpose of permitting the recovery of the cost of service and a return on investment. The Company’s rates are subject to regulatory ratemaking processes. The Company records deferred costs and credits on the consolidated balance sheets as regulatory assets and liabilities when it is probable that these costs and credits will be recognized in the ratemaking process in a period different from when the costs and credits are incurred. Accounting for such costs and credits is based on management’s judgment and prior historical ratemaking practices, and it occurs when management determines that it is probable that these costs and credits will be recognized in the future revenue of the Company through the ratemaking process.
We identified the impact of rate regulation as a critical audit matter due to the significant judgments that underlie the Company’s financial statement line items and disclosure impacted by rate regulation and the high degree of subjectivity involved in assessing the impact of regulatory decisions on the financial statements. Management judgments include assessing the probability of (1) recovery in future rates of incurred costs and (2) the requirement to refund amounts to customers. Given that management’s accounting judgements are based on consideration of evidence, such as regulatory rules and decisions, past practice, and the uncertain outcomes of future regulatory decisions, auditing these judgements required specialized knowledge of accounting for rate regulation and the rate setting process due to its inherent complexities and pervasive impact on the financial statements.
How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit
Our audit procedures related to the impact of rate regulation include the following, among others:
•We tested the effectiveness of management’s controls over the initial recognition of amounts as utility plant and regulatory assets or liabilities and the evaluation of the probability of (1) the recovery in future rates of costs incurred as utility plant and deferred as regulatory assets, and (2) a refund or a future reduction in rates that should be reported as regulatory liabilities. We also tested the effectiveness of management’s controls over the monitoring and evaluation of regulatory developments that may affect the probability of recovering costs in future rates or of a future reduction in rates, and controls over relevant computations impacting certain regulatory asset or liability balances.
•We read regulatory orders issued by the Commissions to the Company, regulatory statutes, and other publicly available information to evaluate management’s determination of the accounting impacts of any new or revised regulatory decisions and their impact on measurement of related regulatory assets and liabilities.
•We obtained supporting documentation from management regarding the evidence, such as regulatory rules and decisions, past practices, and other facts and circumstances, used in the measurement of regulatory assets and liabilities for compliance with the related orders. We reconciled the underlying data or inputs used in the measurement to rate decisions approved by the Commissions and tested the mathematical accuracy of the calculations.
•We obtained an analysis from management regarding probability of recovery for regulatory assets or refund or future reduction in rates for regulatory liabilities not yet addressed in a regulatory order to assess management’s assertion that amounts are probable of recovery or a future reduction in rates.
•We evaluated the Company’s disclosures related to the impacts of rate regulation, including the balances recorded, and regulatory developments, were appropriate and consistent with the information obtained in our procedures.
/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP
San Jose, California
February 27, 2025
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2020.
SJW Group and Subsidiaries
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands, except share and per share data)
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | December 31, |
| | 2024 | | 2023 |
| Assets | | | |
| Utility plant: | | | |
| Land | $ | 44,657 | | | 41,415 | |
| Depreciable plant and equipment | 4,249,314 | | | 3,967,911 | |
| Construction work in progress | 179,486 | | | 106,980 | |
| Intangible assets | 51,604 | | | 35,946 | |
| Total utility plant | 4,525,061 | | | 4,152,252 | |
| Less accumulated depreciation and amortization | 1,036,450 | | | 981,598 | |
| Net utility plant | 3,488,611 | | | 3,170,654 | |
| | | |
| Nonutility properties and real estate investments | 1,314 | | | 13,350 | |
| Less accumulated depreciation and amortization | 98 | | | 194 | |
| Net nonutility properties and real estate investments | 1,216 | | | 13,156 | |
| | | |
| Current assets: | | | |
| Cash and cash equivalents | 11,114 | | | 9,723 | |
| Accounts receivable: | | | |
| Customers, net of allowances for uncollectible accounts of $1,172 and $6,551 in 2024 and 2023, respectively | 68,679 | | | 67,870 | |
| Income tax | 5,953 | | | 5,187 | |
| Other | 7,059 | | | 3,684 | |
| Accrued unbilled revenue | 60,847 | | | 49,543 | |
| Assets held for sale | — | | | 40,850 | |
| Prepaid expenses | 10,297 | | | 11,110 | |
| Current regulatory assets | 18,172 | | | 4,276 | |
| Other current assets | 8,593 | | | 6,146 | |
| Total current assets | 190,714 | | | 198,389 | |
| Other assets: | | | |
| Regulatory assets, less current portion | 224,055 | | | 235,910 | |
| Investments | 18,087 | | | 16,411 | |
| Postretirement benefit plans | 66,422 | | | 33,794 | |
| Other intangible asset | — | | | 28,386 | |
| Goodwill | 640,311 | | | 640,311 | |
| Other | 28,893 | | | 8,056 | |
| Total other assets | 977,768 | | | 962,868 | |
| Total assets | $ | 4,658,309 | | | 4,345,067 | |
See Accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
SJW Group and Subsidiaries
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Continued)
(in thousands, except share and per share data)
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | December 31, |
| | 2024 | | 2023 |
| Capitalization and Liabilities | | | |
| Capitalization: | | | |
| Stockholders’ equity: | | | |
| Common stock, $0.001 par value; authorized 70,000,000 shares in 2024 and 2023; issued and outstanding 33,629,169 shares in 2024 and 32,023,004 shares in 2023 | $ | 34 | | | 32 | |
| Additional paid-in capital | 827,796 | | | 736,191 | |
| Retained earnings | 537,184 | | | 495,383 | |
| Accumulated other comprehensive income | 1,960 | | | 1,791 | |
| Total stockholders’ equity | 1,366,974 | | | 1,233,397 | |
| Long-term debt, less current portion | 1,706,904 | | | 1,526,699 | |
| Total capitalization | 3,073,878 | | | 2,760,096 | |
| Current liabilities: | | | |
| Lines of credit | 119,124 | | | 171,500 | |
| Current portion of long-term debt | 3,648 | | | 48,975 | |
| Accrued groundwater extraction charges, purchased water and power | 25,118 | | | 24,479 | |
| Accounts payable | 56,256 | | | 46,121 | |
| Accrued interest | 17,476 | | | 15,816 | |
| Accrued payroll | 15,193 | | | 12,229 | |
| | | |
| Current regulatory liabilities | 1,122 | | | 3,059 | |
| Other current liabilities | 23,236 | | | 20,795 | |
| Total current liabilities | 261,173 | | | 342,974 | |
| Deferred income taxes | 276,043 | | | 238,528 | |
| Advances for construction | 155,397 | | | 146,582 | |
| Contributions in aid of construction | 340,738 | | | 326,451 | |
| Postretirement benefit plans | 45,063 | | | 46,836 | |
| Regulatory liabilities, less current portion | 483,719 | | | 461,108 | |
| Other noncurrent liabilities | 22,298 | | | 22,492 | |
| Commitments and contingencies | | | |
| Total capitalization and liabilities | $ | 4,658,309 | | | 4,345,067 | |
See Accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
SJW Group and Subsidiaries
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Years ended December 31 (in thousands, except share and per share data)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2022 |
| Operating revenue | $ | 748,439 | | | 670,363 | | | 620,698 | |
| Operating expense: | | | | | |
| Production Expenses: | | | | | |
| Purchased water | 158,568 | | | 135,982 | | | 122,334 | |
| Power | 11,457 | | | 9,602 | | | 8,889 | |
| Groundwater extraction charges | 73,146 | | | 62,980 | | | 56,158 | |
| Other production expenses | 48,851 | | | 47,636 | | | 45,409 | |
| Total production expenses | 292,022 | | | 256,200 | | | 232,790 | |
| Administrative and general | 105,830 | | | 98,656 | | | 95,404 | |
| Maintenance | 31,301 | | | 25,729 | | | 30,734 | |
| Property taxes and other non-income taxes | 35,928 | | | 34,475 | | | 32,572 | |
| Depreciation and amortization | 112,855 | | | 105,868 | | | 104,417 | |
| Gain on sale of nonutility properties | — | | | — | | | (6,197) | |
| | | | | |
| Total operating expense | 577,936 | | | 520,928 | | | 489,720 | |
| Operating income | 170,503 | | | 149,435 | | | 130,978 | |
| Other (expense) income: | | | | | |
| Interest on long-term debt and other interest expense | (71,390) | | | (66,144) | | | (58,062) | |
| Pension non-service credit (cost) | 3,769 | | | (1,230) | | | 5,023 | |
| | | | | |
| Other, net | 55 | | | 8,882 | | | 4,385 | |
| Income before income taxes | 102,937 | | | 90,943 | | | 82,324 | |
| Provision for income taxes | 8,970 | | | 5,956 | | | 8,496 | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| Net income | 93,967 | | | 84,987 | | | 73,828 | |
| Other comprehensive income: | | | | | |
| Unrealized (loss) gain on investment, net of taxes of $(163) in 2024, $166 in 2023 and $(188) in 2022 | (442) | | | 530 | | | (511) | |
| Adjustment to pension benefit plans, net of taxes of $0 in 2024, $80 in 2023 and $793 in 2022 | 611 | | | (216) | | | 2,151 | |
| Comprehensive income | $ | 94,136 | | | 85,301 | | | 75,468 | |
| Earnings per share | | | | | |
| —Basic | $ | 2.87 | | | 2.69 | | | 2.44 | |
| —Diluted | $ | 2.87 | | | 2.68 | | | 2.43 | |
| Weighted average shares outstanding | | | | | |
| —Basic | 32,701,292 | | | 31,575,197 | | | 30,304,557 | |
| —Diluted | 32,779,573 | | | 31,663,274 | | | 30,423,735 | |
See Accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
SJW Group and Subsidiaries
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(in thousands, except share and per share data)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Common Stock | | Additional
Paid-in
Capital | | Retained
Earnings | | Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss) | | | | Total
Stockholders’
Equity |
Number of
Shares | | Amount | |
| Balances, December 31, 2021 | 30,181,348 | | | $ | 30 | | | 606,392 | | | 428,260 | | | (163) | | | | | 1,034,519 | |
| Net income | — | | | — | | | — | | | 73,828 | | | — | | | | | 73,828 | |
| Unrealized loss on investment, net of tax effect of $(188) | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | (511) | | | | | (511) | |
| Adjustment to pension benefit plans, net of taxes of $793 | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 2,151 | | | | | 2,151 | |
| Share-based compensation | — | | | — | | | 4,791 | | | (150) | | | — | | | | | 4,641 | |
| Issuance of restricted and deferred stock units | 54,243 | | | — | | | (1,354) | | | — | | | — | | | | | (1,354) | |
| Employee stock purchase plan | 36,585 | | | — | | | 2,091 | | | — | | | — | | | | | 2,091 | |
| Common stock issuance, net of costs | 529,736 | | | 1 | | | 39,084 | | | | | | | | | 39,085 | |
| Dividends paid ($1.44 per share) | — | | | — | | | — | | | (43,582) | | | — | | | | | (43,582) | |
| Balances, December 31, 2022 | 30,801,912 | | | 31 | | | 651,004 | | | 458,356 | | | 1,477 | | | | | 1,110,868 | |
| Net income | — | | | — | | | — | | | 84,987 | | | — | | | | | 84,987 | |
| Unrealized gain on investment, net of tax effect of $166 | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 530 | | | | | 530 | |
| Adjustment to pension benefit plans, net of taxes of $80 | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | (216) | | | | | (216) | |
| Share-based compensation | — | | | — | | | 4,647 | | | (55) | | | — | | | | | 4,592 | |
| Issuance of restricted and deferred stock units | 67,164 | | | — | | | (2,259) | | | — | | | — | | | | | (2,259) | |
| Employee stock purchase plan | 34,122 | | | — | | | 2,141 | | | — | | | — | | | | | 2,141 | |
| Common stock issuance, net of costs | 1,119,806 | | | 1 | | | 80,658 | | | — | | | — | | | | | 80,659 | |
| Dividends paid ($1.52 per share) | — | | | — | | | — | | | (47,905) | | | — | | | | | (47,905) | |
| Balances, December 31, 2023 | 32,023,004 | | | 32 | | | 736,191 | | | 495,383 | | | 1,791 | | | | | 1,233,397 | |
| Net income | — | | | — | | | — | | | 93,967 | | | — | | | | | 93,967 | |
| Unrealized loss on investment, net of tax effect of $(163) | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | (442) | | | | | (442) | |
| Adjustment to pension benefit plans, net of taxes of $0 | — | | | — | | | — | | | — | | | 611 | | | | | 611 | |
| Share-based compensation | — | | | — | | | 5,623 | | | (34) | | | — | | | | | 5,589 | |
| Issuance of restricted and deferred stock units | 41,023 | | | — | | | (1,212) | | | — | | | — | | | | | (1,212) | |
| Employee stock purchase plan | 42,853 | | | — | | | 2,188 | | | — | | | — | | | | | 2,188 | |
| Common stock issuance, net of costs | 1,522,289 | | | 2 | | | 85,006 | | | — | | | — | | | | | 85,008 | |
| Dividends paid ($1.60 per share) | — | | | — | | | — | | | (52,132) | | | — | | | | | (52,132) | |
| Balances, December 31, 2024 | 33,629,169 | | | $ | 34 | | | 827,796 | | | 537,184 | | | 1,960 | | | | | 1,366,974 | |
See Accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
SJW Group and Subsidiaries
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Years ended December 31 (in thousands)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2022 |
| Operating activities: | | | | | |
| Net income | $ | 93,967 | | | 84,987 | | | 73,828 | |
| Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: | | | | | |
| Depreciation and amortization | 115,050 | | | 108,138 | | | 106,439 | |
| Deferred income taxes | 10,355 | | | (8,510) | | | (3,244) | |
| Stock-based compensation | 5,623 | | | 4,647 | | | 4,791 | |
| Allowance for equity funds used during construction | (2,362) | | | (2,114) | | | (1,551) | |
| | | | | |
| Loss (gain) on sale of nonutility properties and other assets | 572 | | | — | | | (6,197) | |
| Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquired assets and liabilities: | | | | | |
| Accounts receivable and accrued unbilled revenue | (12,663) | | | (10,869) | | | (8,222) | |
| Accounts payable and other current liabilities | 4,241 | | | 492 | | | (1,388) | |
| Accrued groundwater extraction charges, purchased water and power | 639 | | | 4,772 | | | 2,507 | |
| Tax receivable and payable, and other accrued taxes | (18,355) | | | (22,415) | | | (11,954) | |
| Postretirement benefits | (4,400) | | | (1,549) | | | (7,108) | |
| Regulatory assets and liabilities excluding income tax temporary differences and postretirement benefits | (1,812) | | | 12,278 | | | 1,714 | |
| Up-front service concession payments | (23,900) | | | — | | | — | |
| Other noncurrent assets and liabilities | 21,042 | | | 20,756 | | | 17,923 | |
| Other changes, net | 7,529 | | | 218 | | | (1,339) | |
| Net cash provided by operating activities | 195,526 | | | 190,831 | | | 166,199 | |
| Investing activities: | | | | | |
| Additions to utility plant: | | | | | |
| Company-funded | (353,029) | | | (271,772) | | | (218,784) | |
| Contributions in aid of construction | (24,179) | | | (16,855) | | | (22,935) | |
| Additions to nonutility assets and real estate investments | (29) | | | (24,244) | | | (631) | |
| Payments for business acquisitions | — | | | (7,537) | | | (433) | |
| Cost to retire utility plant, net of salvage | (3,430) | | | (2,097) | | | (2,520) | |
| Proceeds from sale of assets | 40,572 | | | 233 | | | 975 | |
| | | | | |
| Net cash used in investing activities | (340,095) | | | (322,272) | | | (244,328) | |
| Financing activities: | | | | | |
| Borrowings from lines of credit | 242,000 | | | 146,415 | | | 158,779 | |
| Repayments of lines of credit | (295,260) | | | (134,493) | | | (62,197) | |
| Long-term borrowings | 185,329 | | | 70,000 | | | 55,000 | |
| | | | | |
| Repayments of long-term borrowings | (48,975) | | | (4,347) | | | (89,177) | |
| | | | | |
| Dividends paid | (52,132) | | | (47,905) | | | (43,582) | |
| Receipts of advances and contributions in aid of construction | 33,070 | | | 22,425 | | | 23,820 | |
| Refunds of advances for construction | (2,963) | | | (2,763) | | | (2,859) | |
| Issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs | 85,008 | | | 80,659 | | | 39,085 | |
| Other changes, net | (117) | | | (1,171) | | | (515) | |
| Net cash provided by financing activities | 145,960 | | | 128,820 | | | 78,354 | |
| Net change in cash and cash equivalents | 1,391 | | | (2,621) | | | 225 | |
| Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year | 9,723 | | | 12,344 | | | 12,119 | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| Cash and cash equivalents, end of year | $ | 11,114 | | | 9,723 | | | 12,344 | |
| | | | | |
| Cash paid (refunded) during the year for: | | | | | |
| Interest | $ | 73,268 | | | 67,508 | | | 63,677 | |
| Interest, net of amounts capitalized | $ | 69,744 | | | 64,608 | | | 58,974 | |
| Income taxes | $ | (598) | | | 23,020 | | | 6,853 | |
| Supplemental disclosure of non-cash activities: | | | | | |
| Accrued payables for additions to utility plant | $ | 41,692 | | | 35,904 | | | 22,561 | |
| Utility property installed by developers | $ | 2,465 | | | 3,341 | | | 2,433 | |
| Proceeds receivable from sale of real estate investments | $ | 2,801 | | | — | | | — | |
| Accrued selling expenses on sale of real estate investments | $ | 2,177 | | | — | | | — | |
| Seller financing in asset acquisition, net of discount | $ | — | | | 15,400 | | | — | |
See Accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
SJW GROUP AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share data and where otherwise noted)
Note 1.Organization and Operations
The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) and include the accounts of SJW Group, its wholly owned subsidiaries, and one variable interest entity in which one SJW Group subsidiary is the primary beneficiary. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. The accounting policies of SJW Group’s subsidiaries comply with the applicable uniform system of accounts prescribed by the respective regulators and conform to generally accepted accounting principles for rate-regulated public utilities.
SJW Group is a holding company that conducts its business through the following wholly owned subsidiaries: San Jose Water Company (“SJWC”), SJWTX Holdings, Inc., SJW Land Company, SJWNE LLC, and National Water Utility Service, LLC (“NWU”). SJWTX Holdings, Inc. is a holding company for its wholly owned subsidiaries, SJWTX, Inc., doing business as The Texas Water Company (“TWC”), Texas Water Operation Services, LLC (“TWOS”) and Texas Water Resources, LLC (“TWR”). SJWNE LLC is the holding company for Connecticut Water Service, Inc. (“CTWS”) whose wholly owned subsidiaries are The Connecticut Water Company (“CWC”), The Maine Water Company (“MWC”), New England Water Utility Services, Inc. (“NEWUS”), and Chester Realty, Inc. NWU is the contracting entity for shared services among the SJW Group affiliates formed in October 2024. SJW Group, through its wholly owned subsidiaries, primarily provides water utility and other related services in California, Connecticut, Maine and Texas. SJW Group has business in property management and real estate investment activity conducted by SJW Land Company and Chester Realty, Inc.
TWC is a public utility in the business of providing water service in Bandera, Blanco, Comal, Hays, Kendall, Medina and Travis Counties in the growing region between San Antonio and Austin, Texas. TWC additionally provides wastewater service in Comal and Kendall counties. TWC also holds a 25% equity interest in Acequia Water Supply Corporation (“Acequia”). Acequia has been determined to be a variable interest entity within the scope of Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 810—“Consolidation” with TWC as the primary beneficiary. As a result, Acequia has been consolidated with TWC. TWOS was created for non-tariffed service operations and TWR was formed to hold wholesale water supply assets.
Water sales are seasonal in nature and influenced by weather conditions. The timing of precipitation and climatic conditions can cause seasonal water consumption by customers to vary significantly. Revenue is generally higher in the warm, dry summer months when water usage and sales are greater and lower in the winter months when cooler temperatures and increased rainfall curtail water usage and sales.
Note 2.Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Use of Estimates
The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Depreciable Utility Plant and Equipment
The major components of depreciable plant and equipment as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 are as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| Source of supply | $ | 228,621 | | | 207,537 | |
| Pumping plant | 301,280 | | | 284,308 | |
| Water treatment plant | 367,836 | | | 354,617 | |
| Transmission and distribution plant | 3,015,978 | | | 2,820,358 | |
| General plant | 335,599 | | | 301,091 | |
| Total depreciable plant and equipment | $ | 4,249,314 | | | 3,967,911 | |
Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated remaining service lives of groups of assets. The estimated service lives of depreciable plant and equipment are as follows:
| | | | | |
| | Useful Lives |
| Source of supply | 20 to 100 years |
| Pumping plant | 5 to 70 years |
| Water treatment plant | 5 to 62 years |
| Transmission and distribution plant | 10 to 100 years |
| General plant | 5 to 68 years |
For the years 2024, 2023 and 2022, depreciation expense as a percentage of the beginning of the year balance of depreciable plant was 2.9%, 2.9% and 3.3%, respectively. Depreciation expense for utility plant for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022 was $111,575, $104,325 and $99,413, respectively. The cost of utility plant retired (less salvage) is charged to accumulated depreciation and no gain or loss is recognized. To the extent SJW Group recovers retirement costs through rates during the life of the associated asset and before the costs are incurred, these amounts result in a regulatory liability being reported based on the amounts previously recovered through customer rates until the costs to retire those assets are incurred.
Allowance For Funds Used During Construction (“AFUDC”)
AFUDC represents the capitalized costs of borrowed funds or a return on equity funds used to finance utility plant under construction and is capitalized as part of construction work in progress. AFUDC is recorded to the extent approved by the respective states’ utility regulators and is recovered through water rates as the utility plant depreciates. The amount of AFUDC debt capitalized in 2024, 2023 and 2022 was $3,524, $2,900 and $4,703, respectively. Interest on long-term debt is presented net of AFUDC debt capitalized on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. The amount of AFUDC equity capitalized in 2024, 2023 and 2022 was $2,362, $2,114 and $1,551, respectively, reflected in “Other, net” on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income.
Intangible Assets
Finite-lived intangible assets are recorded at cost and are amortized using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the asset, ranging from 5 to 70 years. Indefinite-lived intangibles assets are not amortized, but instead are tested for impairment annually, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that the asset is impaired. (see Note 8, “Intangible Assets”). Nonutility Properties and Real Estate Investments
Nonutility properties and real estate investments are recorded at cost and consist primarily of land and buildings. Net gains and losses from the sale of nonutility properties and real estate investments are recorded as a component of other (expense) income and operating expense, respectively, in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. Nonutility property is property that is neither used nor useful in providing water utility services to customers and is excluded from rate base for rate-setting purposes. SJWC recognizes gain or loss on the disposition of nonutility property in accordance with California Public Utilities Commission (“CPUC”) Code Section 790, whereby the net proceeds are reinvested back into property that is useful in providing water utility services to customers. CTWS and TWC do not have regulatory restrictions on the use of proceeds from the sale of nonutility property. There is no depreciation associated with Water Utility Services nonutility property as it is all undeveloped land.
The major components of nonutility properties and real estate investments are as follows as of December 31:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| Land | $ | 915 | | | 4,137 | |
| Wholesale water supply assets | — | | | 8,465 | |
| Buildings and improvements | 399 | | | 748 | |
| | | |
| Subtotal | 1,314 | | | 13,350 | |
| Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization | 98 | | | 194 | |
| Total | $ | 1,216 | | | 13,156 | |
Depreciation on buildings and improvements for real estate investments is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, ranging from 7 to 39 years.
In March 2023, SJW Land Company entered into a broker agreement to sell its warehouse buildings and land property located in Knoxville, Tennessee. The company reclassified the Tennessee properties from held-and-used to held-for-sale at March 31, 2023. The company recorded the Tennessee properties at the lower of their carrying value or estimated fair value less cost to sell, and also stopped recording depreciation on assets held for sale. SJW Group’s broker provided the estimated fair value of the Tennessee properties. No impairment was recorded as the estimated fair value less cost to sell exceeded carrying value.
In 2024, in two separate transactions, SJW Land Company completed the sale of the Tennessee properties for an aggregate of $44,000. The net pre-tax loss associated with these transactions for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $969 and is included in the “Other, net” line on the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. A portion of the proceeds from these sales totaling $2,801 is being held in escrow pending completion of certain post-closing obligations. Following these two transactions, SJW Group does not have any other assets classified as held for sale.
The sale of the Tennessee properties does not represent a strategic shift that has or will have a major effect on SJW Group; therefore, the sale does not qualify for treatment as a discontinued operation.
The following represents the major components of the Tennessee warehouse building and land property recorded in assets held-for-sale on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2023: | | | | | |
| 2023 |
| Land | $ | 13,170 | |
| Buildings and improvements | 44,950 | |
| |
| Subtotal | 58,120 | |
| Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization | 17,270 | |
| Total | $ | 40,850 | |
On October 29, 2021, SJWC sold two nonutility properties located in San Jose, California for $13,150. For the year ended December 31, 2022, SJW Group recognized the pre-tax gain on the sale of nonutility properties of $7,230, after selling expenses of $277 for one of the properties sold, and a gain of $5,442 which was deferred in 2021 pending the CPUC review. On February 15, 2022, the CPUC review was complete and SJWC recognized the deferred gain on sale of nonutility property in 2022.
In August 2023, a non-regulated subsidiary, TWR, acquired eight wells and the associated water rights of KT Water Resources, LLC, as discussed in Note 14, “Acquisitions.” In connection with a transaction in the third quarter of 2024, TWC purchased these assets from TWR for use in utility operations. Accordingly, SJW Group reclassified $28,386 related to indefinite-lived water rights from other intangible assets to utility plant intangible assets and $11,684 from nonutility property to utility plant. Business Combinations and Asset Acquisitions
SJW Group applies the provisions of Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) ASC Topic 805—“Business Combinations” for the accounting related to business and asset acquisitions. First, SJW Group applies the guidance in Topic 805 to determine whether a transaction represents a business combination or an acquisition of assets. If the transaction is a business combination, Topic 805 requires SJW Group to recognize separately from goodwill the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed at the acquisition date fair values. Goodwill as of the acquisition date is measured as the excess of consideration transferred over the net of the acquisition date fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed. If the transaction is an acquisition of assets, the cost of the transaction, including transaction costs, is allocated to the individual assets acquired and liabilities assumed on a relative fair value basis without recognition of goodwill. While SJW Group uses best available estimates and assumptions to accurately value assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date, such estimates are inherently uncertain and subject to refinement. For business combinations, Topic 805 provides for a measurement period from the acquisition date of up to one year, during which we may record adjustments to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed with the corresponding offset to goodwill. Upon the conclusion of the measurement period, any subsequent adjustments are recorded to the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. Accounting for business combinations and asset acquisitions requires SJW Group to make significant estimates and assumptions, especially at the acquisition date, including estimates for intangible assets, contractual obligations assumed and pre-acquisition contingencies. Although SJW Group believes that the assumptions and estimates we make are reasonable and appropriate, they are based in part on historical experience and information obtained from the acquired company’s management and are inherently uncertain. Events and circumstances may occur that may affect the accuracy or validity of such assumptions, estimates or actual results. Examples of critical estimates in valuing certain of the intangible assets we have acquired include, but are not limited to: future expected cash flows from services; historical and expected customer attrition rates and anticipated growth in revenue from acquired
customers; the expected use of the acquired assets; and discount rates. See Note 14, “Acquisitions” for further information on business combinations and asset acquisitions. Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Goodwill
In accordance with the requirements of FASB ASC Topic 360—“Property, Plant and Equipment,” the long-lived assets of SJW Group, including property, plant and equipment and finite-lived intangible assets, are reviewed for impairment when changes in circumstances or events indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. In assessing qualitative factors, SJW Group considers the impact of these key factors: change in industry and competitive environment, financial performance, and other relevant company-specific events. When such changes in circumstances or events occur, the company assesses recoverability by determining whether the carrying value of such assets will be recovered through the undiscounted expected future cash flows. To the extent an impairment exists, the asset is written down to its estimated fair value with a corresponding charge to operations in the period in which the impairment is identified. No impairments occurred during 2024 and 2023.
Goodwill is not amortized but is tested for impairment annually on October 1st or more frequently if an event occurs or circumstances change that would, more likely than not, reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. Indefinite-lived intangible assets, other than goodwill, are not amortized but are tested for impairment annually on October 1st or more frequently if an event occurs or circumstances change that would, more likely than not, reduce the fair value of indefinite-lived intangible assets below their carrying amount. In performing impairment tests of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets, SJW Group first performs a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is necessary to perform the quantitative impairment test. In assessing the qualitative factors, SJW Group considers the impact of these key factors: change in industry and competitive environment, financial performance, macroeconomic conditions, and other relevant Company-specific events. If SJW Group determines that as a result of the qualitative assessment it is more likely than not (> 50% likelihood) that the fair value is less than carrying amount, then a quantitative test is performed. As of October 1, 2024, SJW Group performed qualitative assessments of both goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets and found no indicators of impairment and therefore did not perform quantitative impairment tests. No impairments of goodwill or indefinite-lived intangible assets occurred during 2024, 2023 or 2022.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents primarily consisted of cash on deposit with banks and short-term, highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less.
Accounts Receivable
Accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amounts. The allowance for uncollectible accounts is SJW Group’s best estimate of credit losses in its existing accounts receivable and is determined based on current expected losses. The estimate is based on historical loss information adjusted for current conditions. Accounts balances are written off against the allowance when it is probable the receivable will not be recovered or is over a certain number of days outstanding. During the second quarter of 2024, SJW Group recorded a reduction to its allowance for credit losses of $7,822, of which $3,960 resulted in a reduction to regulatory assets and $3,862 was recorded through administrative and general expense ($2,782 net of tax or $0.08 per diluted share).
Financial Instruments and Investments
The following instruments are not measured at fair value on the company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets but require disclosure of fair values: cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and lines of credit. The estimated fair value of such instruments approximates their carrying value as reported on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The fair value of such financial instruments are determined using the income approach based on the present value of estimated future cash flows. The fair value of these instruments would be categorized as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy, with the exception of cash and cash equivalents, which would be categorized as Level 1. The fair value of long-term debt is discussed in Note 6, “Long-Term Debt” and pension plan assets in Note 11, “Benefit Plans.” SJW Group has investments in company owned life insurance which are valued at cash surrender value of the policies as reported by the insurer. The value of these contracts is based principally on a referenced pool of investment funds that actively redeem shares, are observable and measurable, and are presented in “Investments” on SJW Group’s Consolidated Balance Sheets. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the value of the company owned life insurance was $8,944 and $8,220, respectively, of which $4,294 and $3,937, respectively, was related to assets to fund CTWS’ supplemental retirement plan agreements. See discussion on pension plans in Note 11, “Benefit Plans.”
Income Taxes
Income taxes are accounted for using the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the effect of temporary differences between financial and tax reporting. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using current tax rates in effect. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in the period that includes the enactment date.
To the extent permitted by the regulators, investment tax credits resulting from public utility plant additions are deferred and amortized over the estimated useful lives of the related property. In addition, investment tax credits resulting from other asset additions are recognized in the year the property is put in service.
Advances for Construction and Contributions in Aid of Construction
In California, advances for construction received after 1981 are primarily refunded ratably over 40 years. In Connecticut and Maine, advances for construction are refunded as services are connected to the main over periods not exceeding 15 years and in Texas advances for construction are non-refundable. Estimated refunds for the next five years and thereafter are shown below:
| | | | | |
| | Estimated Refunds |
| 2025 | $ | 2,997 | |
| 2026 | 2,898 | |
| 2027 | 2,808 | |
| 2028 | 2,741 | |
| 2029 | 2,645 | |
| Thereafter | 44,406 | |
As of December 31, 2024, advances for construction totaled $155,397 including $64,920 in non-refundable advances and $31,983 in advances that will be refunded based on service connections made, though the timing of these refunds cannot be estimated. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the fair value of the advances for construction refunded ratably over 40 years is $43,718 and $40,915, respectively.
Contributions in aid of construction represent funds or property received from developers that are not refundable under applicable regulations. Depreciation applicable to utility plant constructed with these contributions is charged to contributions in aid of construction.
Asset Retirement Obligation
SJW Group’s asset retirement obligation is recorded as a liability included in other non-current liabilities. It reflects principally the retirement costs of wells and other anticipated clean-up costs, which by law, must be remediated upon retirement.
As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the asset retirement obligation is as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| Estimated future retirement costs | $ | 4,303 | | | 4,198 | |
| Discount rate | 6 | % | | 6 | % |
| | | |
| | | |
| Retirement obligation, present value | $ | 887 | | | 862 | |
Revenue
SJW Group recognizes revenue under ASC Topic 606—“Revenue from Contracts with Customers” for metered revenue of Water Utility Services, which includes billings to customers based on meter readings plus an estimate of water used between the customers’ last meter reading and the end of the accounting period. SJW Group satisfies its performance obligation upon delivery of water to the customer at which time the customer consumes the benefits provided by the company. The customer is generally billed on a quarterly, monthly, or bi-monthly basis after water delivery has occurred. The customer is charged both a service charge which is based upon meter size and covers a portion of the fixed costs of furnishing water to the customer and a consumption charge based on actual water usage. Unbilled revenue from the last meter reading date to the end of the accounting period is estimated based on the most recent usage patterns, production records and the effective tariff rates. As the company has the right to bill for services that it has provided, SJW Group estimates the dollar value of deliveries during the unbilled period and recognizes the associated revenue. Actual results could differ from those estimates, which may result in an adjustment to revenue when billed in a subsequent period.
SJW Group also recognizes revenue under ASC Topic 980-605-25—“Alternative Revenue Programs.” Under programs established by the CPUC and Public Utilities Regulatory Authority of Connecticut (“PURA”), allowing for automatic adjustment of future rates, the company recognizes revenue when it is objectively determinable, probable of recovery and expected to be collected within 24 months of the year-end in which the revenue is recognized. A reserve, based on an estimate of actual usage over the recovery period, is recorded for any amounts SJW Group estimates will not be collected within the 24-month period. SJW Group’s alternative revenue programs include SJWC’s Water Conservation Memorandum Account (“WCMA”) and CWC’s Water Rate Adjustment mechanism (“WRA”). See further discussion on WCMA and WRA in Note 3, “Regulatory Matters.” SJW Group’s revenues also reflect the impact of other balancing and memorandum accounts and other regulatory mechanisms that are accounted for under FASB ASC Topic 980—“Regulated Operations.” Balancing and memorandum accounts are recognized when it is probable that future recovery of previously incurred costs or future refunds that are to be credited to customers will occur through the ratemaking process. See further discussion in Note 3, “Regulatory Matters.” SJW Group also recognizes revenue from rental income, which represents lease rental income. Tenants pay monthly in accordance with lease agreements and SJW Group recognizes the income ratably over the lease term as this is the most representative of the pattern in which the benefit is expected to be derived from SJW Group’s underlying asset.
Detail of SJW Group’s revenue components are as follows for the years ended December 31:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | 2024 | | 2023 | | 2022 |
| Revenue from contracts with customers | $ | 736,326 | | | 678,168 | | | 586,918 | |
| Alternative revenue programs, net | 6,181 | | | 3,634 | | | (1,312) | |
| Other balancing and memorandum accounts and regulatory mechanisms, net | (153) | | | (17,123) | | | 29,487 | |
| Rental income | 6,085 | | | 5,684 | | | 5,605 | |
| $ | 748,439 | | | 670,363 | | | 620,698 | |
Revenue also includes a surcharge collected from regulated customers that is paid to the CPUC. This surcharge is recorded both in operating revenue and administrative and general expenses. For the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, the surcharge was $3,668, $4,085 and $6,121, respectively.
Share-Based Compensation
SJW Group calculates the fair value of service-based and performance-based restricted stock awards based on the grant date fair value of the company’s stock price reduced by the present value of the dividends expected to be declared on outstanding shares.
SJW Group utilizes the Monte Carlo valuation model, which requires the use of subjective assumptions, to compute the fair value of market-vesting restricted stock units.
The compensation cost for service-based restricted stock awards is charged to income on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period, which is the vesting period. For performance-based stock awards, compensation expense is charged to income on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period based on expected attainment of performance targets. Changes in the estimates of the expected attainment of performance targets will result in a change in the number of shares that are expected to vest which may cause a cumulative catch up for the amount of share-based compensation expense during each reporting period in which such estimates are altered. Forfeitures are accounted for as they occur.
Earnings per Share
Basic earnings per share is calculated using income available to common stockholders, divided by the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share is calculated using income available to common stockholders divided by the weighted average number of shares of common stock including both shares outstanding and shares potentially issuable in connection with restricted common stock awards under SJW Group’s long-term incentive plans, shares potentially issuable under the performance stock plans assumed through the business combination with CTWS, and shares potentially issuable under SJW Group’s employee stock purchase plans. Restricted common stock units of 8,075, 14,193 and 25,127 as of December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively, were excluded from the diluted earnings per share calculation as their effect would have been antidilutive.
Related-Party Transaction
The Force for Good Foundation, established in 2024, is a non-consolidated not-for-profit corporation funded by SJW Group that plans to make contributions to selected charitable organizations. For the year ended December 31, 2024, SJW Group made
contributions of $3,000, which are included as an expense in the “Other, net” line of the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income.
New Accounting Standards
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Standard | | Description | | Date of Adoption | | Application | | Effect on the Consolidated Financial Statements |
| Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2023-07 “Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures” | | The ASU requires disclosure of significant segment expenses, extends certain annual disclosures to interim periods, and requires additional qualitative disclosures regarding the chief operating decision maker. | | The ASU is effective for SJW Group beginning with its annual financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2024. Early adoption is permitted. | | Retrospective | | During the year ended December 31, 2024, SJW Group adopted ASU 2023-07, “Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures,” retrospectively. Refer to Note 13. Segment Reporting for the required disclosures. |
| ASU 2023-09 “Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures” | | The ASU amends certain income tax disclosure requirements, including adding requirements to present the reconciliation of income tax expense computed at the statutory rate to actual income tax expense using both percentages and amounts and providing a disaggregation of income taxes paid. Further, certain disclosures are eliminated, including the current requirement to disclose information on changes in unrecognized tax benefits in the next 12 months. | | The ASU is effective for SJW Group beginning with its annual financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2025. Early adoption is permitted. | | Prospective, with retrospective application also permitted. | | SJW Group is currently evaluating the requirements of ASU 2023-09. |
| ASU 2024-03 “Disaggregation of Income Statement Expenses” | | The ASU requires disclosure, in the notes to the financial statements, of specified information about certain costs and expenses. The ASU requires disclosure of purchases of inventory, employee compensation, depreciation, and intangible asset amortization in interim and annual reporting periods. Further, other amounts already required to be disclosed in accordance with current U.S. GAAP would be included in the same disclosure as the other disaggregation requirements. Additionally, the ASU requires qualitative descriptions of amounts remaining in relevant expense captions that are not separately disaggregated quantitatively as well as disclosure of selling expenses in annual periods and an entity’s definition of selling expenses. | | The ASU is effective for SJW Group for its annual financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2027 and for interim reporting periods for the year ending December 31, 2028. Early adoption is permitted. | | Prospective, with retrospective application also permitted. | | SJW Group is currently evaluating the requirements of ASU 2024-03. |
Note 3.Regulatory Matters
Regulation
Water Utility Services, excluding non-tariffed activities, are subject to rate regulation based on cost recovery and meets the criteria of accounting guidance for rate-regulated operations under ASC Topic 980, which affects the timing of the recognition of certain revenues and expenses. SJW Group’s consolidated financial statements reflect the actions of regulators in the rate-
making process. The rate-making process is intended to provide revenues sufficient to recover normal operating expenses, provide funds for replacement of water infrastructure and produce a fair and reasonable return on stockholder common equity.
Water Utility Services, excluding non-tariffed activities, recognizes regulatory assets for incurred costs that are deemed probable of recovery from customers. Also, Water Utility Services recognizes regulatory liabilities for amounts expected to be refunded to customers in the rate-making process and for amounts collected in advance of the related expenditures. Regulatory assets or liabilities are also recognized for special revenue programs such as WCMA and WRA in accordance with guidance on alternative revenue programs under ASC Topic 980. Application of ASC 980, including determining whether recovery is probable, requires significant judgment by management and includes assessing evidence that may exist prior to regulatory authorization, including regulatory rules and decisions, historical ratemaking practices, and other facts and circumstances that would indicate that recovery or refund is probable.
If the regulated utility determines that it is no longer probable that regulatory assets or liabilities would be recovered or refunded through the regulatory process, or if the utility ceased to be subject to rate regulation, the affected regulatory assets and liabilities would be derecognized with a corresponding adjustment to income in the period in which that determination was made.
SJWC has established balancing accounts for the purpose of tracking the under-collection or over-collection associated with expense changes and the revenue authorized by the CPUC to offset those expense changes. SJWC’s Full Cost Balancing Account (“FCBA”) tracks water supply costs and energy consumption. The Monterey Water Revenue Adjustment (“MWRAM”) balancing account tracks the difference between the revenue received for actual metered sales through the tiered volumetric rate and the revenue that would have been received with the same actual metered sales if a uniform rate would have been in effect.
SJWC also maintains memorandum accounts to track impacts due to catastrophic events, certain unforeseen water quality expenses related to new federal and state water quality standards, energy efficiency, water conservation, water tariffs, and other approved activities or as directed by the CPUC. The WCMA allows SJWC to track lost revenue, net of related water costs, associated with reduced sales due to water conservation and associated calls for water use reduction, both mandatory and voluntary. SJWC records the lost revenue captured in the WCMA balancing accounts, including amounts related to a 20-basis point reduction in the authorized return on equity per the terms of the WCMA. Applicable drought surcharges collected are used to offset the revenue losses tracked in the WCMA. Mandatory water conservation requirements from Santa Clara Valley Water District (“Valley Water”) ended on April 11, 2023, which also ended SJWC’s Mandatory Conservation Plan, that included drought allocations and surcharges. On October 2, 2023, the CPUC approved the continuation of WCMA and Water Conservation Expense Memorandum Account under the voluntary call for conservation effective April 20, 2023. All balancing accounts and memorandum accounts not included for recovery or refund in current customer rates will be reviewed by the CPUC in SJWC’s next general rate case or at the time an individual account balance reaches a threshold of 2% of authorized revenue, whichever occurs first. On December 19, 2024, the CPUC issued General Rate Case Decision No. 24-12-077, which approved a recovery of $15,792 in balancing and memorandum accounts from customers through a 12-month surcharge effective January 1, 2025.
CWC has been authorized by PURA to utilize WRA, a decoupling mechanism, to mitigate risks associated with changes in demand. The WRA is used to reconcile actual water demands with the demands projected in the most recent general rate case and allows the company to implement a surcharge or sur-credit as necessary to recover or refund the revenues approved in the general rate case. The WRA allows the company to defer, as a regulatory asset or liability, the amount by which actual revenues deviate from the revenues allowed in the most recent general rate proceedings.
Regulatory Assets and Liabilities
Regulatory assets and liabilities are comprised of the following as of December 31:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| Regulatory assets: | | | |
| Income tax temporary differences (a) (q) | $ | 180,103 | | | 157,669 | |
| Unrecognized pensions and other postretirement benefits (b) (q) | 3,177 | | | 24,593 | |
| Business combinations debt premium (c) (q) | 12,313 | | | 14,855 | |
| Employee benefit costs (d) (q) | 6,370 | | | 9,815 | |
| MWRAM (e) | 9,985 | | | 9,361 | |
| Customer Assistance Program (“CAP”) balancing account (f) | 6,599 | | | 5,457 | |
| Catastrophic event memorandum accounts (“CEMA”) (g) | 986 | | | 4,819 | |
| 2022 general rate case interim memorandum account (h) | 3,392 | | | 4,571 | |
| Revenue adjustment mechanisms (n) (q) | 5,024 | | | — | |
| Water supply costs (i) | — | | | 583 | |
| Other (j) | 14,278 | | | 8,463 | |
| Total regulatory assets | 242,227 | | | 240,186 | |
| Less: current regulatory asset (k) | 18,172 | | | 4,276 | |
| Total regulatory assets, less current portion | $ | 224,055 | | | 235,910 | |
| Regulatory liabilities: | | | |
| Cost of removal (l) | $ | 364,398 | | | 346,418 | |
| Future income tax benefits due to customers (m) | 84,128 | | | 88,610 | |
| Unrecognized pensions and other postretirement benefits (b) | 27,872 | | | 20,196 | |
| Employee benefit costs (d) | 1,137 | | | — | |
| Revenue adjustment mechanisms (n) | 1,122 | | | 5,536 | |
| Water supply costs (i) | 3,386 | | | — | |
| Other (o) | 2,798 | | | 3,407 | |
| Total regulatory liabilities | 484,841 | | | 464,167 | |
| Less: current regulatory liabilities (p) | 1,122 | | | 3,059 | |
| Total regulatory liabilities, less current portion | $ | 483,719 | | | 461,108 | |
___________________________________(a)Consists primarily of temporary income tax differences that are flowed through to customers, which will be recovered in future rates as these temporary differences reverse. The company expects to recover regulatory assets related to plant depreciation income tax temporary differences over the lives of the plant assets, which are between 5 to 100 years.
(b)Represents actuarial losses and gains and prior service cost that have not yet been recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost for certain pension and other postretirement benefit plans.
(c)Consists of debt fair value adjustments recognized through purchase accounting for the completed merger with CTWS in 2019.
(d)Includes deferrals of pension and other postretirement benefit expense, cost of accrued benefits for vacation, and group health insurance.
(e)MWRAM is described in the previous section.
(f)Represents costs associated with SJWC’s CAP.
(g)The CPUC has authorized water utilities to activate CEMA accounts in order to track savings and costs related to SJWC’s response to catastrophic events, which includes external labor and materials, increases in bad debt from suspension of shutoffs for non-payment, waived deposits and reconnection fees, and divergence from actual versus authorized usage. The balances primarily relate to expenses associated with SJWC’s response to COVID-19, including bad debt.
(h)Represents the difference between revenues collected in interim rates in effect as of January 1, 2022 and revenues that would result from rates authorized in SJWC’s 2022 general rate case retroactive to January 1, 2022.
(i)Reflects primarily SJWC’s FCBA which tracks differences in actual water supply costs compared to amounts assumed in base rates, including applicable changes and variations in costs and quantities that affect the overall mix of the water supply.
(j)Other includes other balancing and memorandum accounts and regulatory mechanisms, deferred costs for certain information technology activities, asset retirement obligations, tank painting, well reconditioning and rate case expenses.
(k)As of December 31, 2024, primarily relates to SJWC’s balancing and memorandum account surcharge in accordance with Decision No. 24-12-077 and the current portion of CWC’s deferred well redevelopment and rate case costs. As of December 31, 2023, primarily relates to the current portion of MWRAM.
(l)Represents amounts collected in rates from customers for estimated costs to retire assets at the end of their expected useful lives before the costs are incurred.
(m)On December 22, 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (the "Tax Act”) was signed into law. The Tax Act included a reduction in the federal income tax rate from 35% to 21%. The rate reduction was effective on January 1, 2018 and resulted in a regulatory liability for the excess deferred income taxes. The benefit of amortization of excess deferred income taxes flows back to the customers under current normalization rules and agreed upon methods with the commissions.
(n)Consists of WRA and WCMA, which are described in the previous section.
(o)Other includes other balancing and memorandum accounts, other regulatory mechanisms and accrued tank painting costs.
(p)Primarily relates to the current portion of WRA.
(q)Generally not earning a return either by interest on the regulatory asset or as a component of rate base at the allowed rate of return.
Note 4.Capitalization
SJW Group is authorized to issue 70,000,000 shares of common stock of $0.001 par value per share. At December 31, 2024 and 2023, 33,629,169 and 32,023,004, respectively, shares of common stock were issued and outstanding.
As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, 1,000,000 shares of preferred stock of $0.001 par value per share were authorized for SJW Group. At December 31, 2024 and 2023, no shares of preferred stock were issued or outstanding.
In March 2023, SJW Group entered into Amendment No. 1 to the equity distribution agreement (the “Equity Distribution Agreement”), dated November 17, 2021, between SJW Group and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, Janney Montgomery Scott LLC, RBC Capital Markets, LLC and Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, pursuant to which the company offered and sold shares of its common stock, $0.001 par value per share, from time to time in “at-the-market” offerings, having an aggregate gross sales price of up to $240,000. The Equity Distribution Agreement was replaced by a new equity distribution agreement in October 2024, as discussed below. Through the Equity Distribution Agreement, SJW Group issued and sold 3,151,433 shares of common stock at a weighted average price of $67.80 for a total net proceeds of $208,838 over the life of the agreement.
On October 29, 2024, SJW Group entered into an equity distribution agreement (the, “New Equity Distribution Agreement”) with BofA Securities, Inc., J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, RBC Capital Markets, LLC and Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, pursuant to which the company may offer and sell shares of its common stock, $0.001 par value per share, from time to time in “at-the-market” offerings, having an aggregate gross sales price of up to $200,000. Since the inception of the New Equity Distribution Agreement, SJW Group has issued and sold 375,513 shares of common stock at a weighted average price of $55.46 for a total net proceeds of $20,167 and has $179,175 of aggregate gross sales price of shares remaining to issue under the New Equity Distribution Agreement as of December 31, 2024.
For the year ended December 31, 2024, SJW Group issued and sold a total of 1,522,289 shares of common stock with a weighted average price of $57.15 per share and received $85,008 in net proceeds under the aforementioned equity distribution agreements.
Note 5.Lines of Credit
SJW Group and its subsidiaries have unsecured line of credit agreements where borrowings are used to refinance existing debt, for working capital, and for general corporate purposes. A summary of the line of credit agreements as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 are as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | 2024 | | 2023 |
| Maturity Date | | Line Limit | | Amounts Outstanding | | Unused Portion | | Amounts Outstanding |
| Syndicated credit agreement: | August 2, 2029 | | | | | | | | |
| SJW Group | | | $ | 50,000 | | | 3,000 | | | 47,000 | | | 10,000 | |
| SJWC | | | 140,000 | | | 44,000 | | | 96,000 | | | 56,000 | |
| CTWS | | | 90,000 | | | 30,000 | | | 60,000 | | | 53,000 | |
| TWC | | | 20,000 | | | — | | | 20,000 | | | 2,500 | |
| Total syndicated credit agreement | | | 300,000 | | | 77,000 | | | 223,000 | | | 121,500 | |
| CTWS credit agreement | August 2, 2028 | | 10,000 | | | 2,124 | | | 7,876 | | | 10,000 | |
| CTWS credit agreement | May 15, 2025 | | 40,000 | | | 40,000 | | | — | | | 40,000 | |
| | | $ | 350,000 | | | 119,124 | | | 230,876 | | | 171,500 | |
SJW Group, SJWC, TWC, and CTWS have entered into a $300,000 credit agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent (“JP Morgan”), Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Documentation Agent, and a syndicate of banks dated August 2, 2022. Proceeds of borrowings under the Credit Agreement will be used for refinancing existing debt, working capital, and general corporate purposes. The Credit Agreement had a maturity date of August
2, 2027. On August 2, 2023, SJW Group, SJWC, TWC, and CTWS entered into the First Amendment to the Credit Agreement with JPMorgan Chase Bank which provided for, among other matters, an extension of the maturity date from August 2, 2027 to August 2, 2028. On August 2, 2024, SJW Group, SJWC, TWC, and CTWS entered into the Second Amendment to the Credit Agreement with JPMorgan Chase Bank which provided for, among other matters, an extension of the maturity date from August 2, 2028 to August 2, 2029.
Under the terms of the Credit Agreement, each of SJW Group, SJWC, TWC, and CTWS is a borrower with several and not joint liability. Each borrower has an initial borrowing entitlement, or sublimit, which can be periodically adjusted from time to time as set forth in the Credit Agreement. The initial sublimit of each borrower is as presented in the table above.
Borrowings under the Credit Agreement bear interest at either the Alternative Base Rate (as defined in the Credit Agreement and hereinafter referred to as “ABR”) or the Adjusted Term Secured Overnight Financing Rate (as defined in the Credit Agreement and hereinafter referred to as “SOFR”). ABR borrowings (which are borrowings bearing interest at a rate determined by reference to ABR) will bear interest at a rate per annum equal to ABR plus the applicable rate. SOFR borrowings (which are borrowings bearing interest at a rate determined by reference to SOFR) will bear interest at a rate per annum equal to SOFR plus the applicable rate. The applicable rate and pricing is variable depending on credit ratings of the borrower.
The Credit Agreement includes a financial covenant that requires each of the borrowers to maintain its funded debt to capitalization ratio at or below 70%.
On October 31, 2022, CTWS and Citizens Bank, National Association, entered into a fifth modification to the amended and restated revolving credit facility of $10,000 to update the interest rate from London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus the applicable rate to SOFR plus the applicable rate.
On February 6, 2023, CTWS modified its existing $40,000 credit agreement with CoBank to update the interest rate from LIBOR plus the applicable rate to SOFR plus the applicable rate.
The weighted-average interest rate on short-term borrowings outstanding at December 31, 2024 was 6.08% compared to 6.48% at December 31, 2023.
All of SJW Group’s and subsidiaries’ lines of credit contain customary representations, warranties and events of default, as well as certain restrictive covenants customary for facilities of this type, including restrictions on indebtedness, liens, acquisitions and investments, restricted payments, asset sales, and fundamental changes. The lines of credit also include certain customary financial covenants such as a funded debt to capitalization ratio and a minimum interest coverage ratio. As of December 31, 2024, SJW Group and its subsidiaries were in compliance with all covenants on the lines of credit.
Note 6.Long-Term Debt
Long-term debt as of December 31 was as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Description | Rate | | Maturity | | 2024 | | 2023 |
| | | | | | | |
| SJW Group Senior notes (a) | 2.47% - 3.53% | | 2029 - 2039 | | $ | 560,000 | | | 560,000 | |
| SJWC: | | | | | | | |
| Senior notes (a) | 3.00% - 7.20% | | 2026 - 2054 | | 505,000 | | | 470,000 | |
| California Pollution Control Financing Authority Revenue Bond | 4.75% | | 2046 | | 70,000 | | | 70,000 | |
| Total SJWC | | | | | 575,000 | | | 540,000 | |
| CTWS bank term loans | 4.09%, 4.15% | | 2027, 2037 | | 14,389 | | | 16,457 | |
| CWC: | | | | | | | |
| Connecticut Innovations Revenue Bonds, variable rate | | | 2028 - 2029 | | 22,050 | | | 22,050 | |
| Senior notes (a) | 3.07% - 6.46% | | 2037 - 2054 | | 270,000 | | | 195,000 | |
| State revolving fund loans | 2.00% | | 2044 | | 327 | | | — | |
| Bank term loans | 4.04% - 4.75% | | 2028 - 2036 | | 96,295 | | | 96,295 | |
| Total CWC | | | | | 388,672 | | | 313,345 | |
| TWC: | | | | | | | |
| Senior note (a) | 6.27% | | 2036 | | 15,000 | | | 15,000 | |
| Bank term loans | 4.01% - 6.47% | | 2041 - 2054 | | 65,000 | | | 45,000 | |
| Seller financing debt | (b) | | 2053 | | 29,000 | | | — | |
| Total TWC | | | | | 109,000 | | | 60,000 | |
| TWR seller financing debt | (b) | | 2053 | | — | | | 29,000 | |
| MWC: | | | | | | | |
| State revolving fund loans | 0.00% - 2.23% | | 2025 - 2048 | | 12,763 | | | 14,239 | |
| Other First Mortgage Bond | 8.95 | % | | 2024 | | — | | | 900 | |
| Bank term loans | 3.89% - 6.47% | | 2026 - 2054 | | 60,000 | | | 49,500 | |
| Total MWC | | | | | 72,763 | | | 64,639 | |
| Total debt | | | | | 1,719,824 | | | 1,583,441 | |
| Unamortized debt premium and discount, net | | | | | (56) | | | 1,583 | |
| | | | | | | |
| Unamortized debt issuance costs | | | | | (9,216) | | | (9,350) | |
| Current portion | | | | | (3,648) | | | (48,975) | |
| Total long-term debt, less current portion | | | | | $ | 1,706,904 | | | 1,526,699 | |
___________________________________
(a)Senior notes held by institutional investors are unsecured obligations of SJW Group, SJWC, CWC, TWC and MWC and require interest-only payments until maturity. To minimize issuance costs, the companies’ debt has primarily been placed privately.
(b)Debt does not contain a stated interest rate but is discounted using an effective rate of 5.61%.
The following is a table of the consolidated company’s schedule of principal payments: | | | | | |
| Year | |
| 2025 | $ | 3,664 | |
| 2026 | 23,757 | |
| 2027 | 3,011 | |
| 2028 | 44,502 | |
| 2029 | 325,425 | |
| Thereafter | 1,319,465 | |
The estimated fair value of long-term debt as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 was $1,490,024 and $1,394,412, respectively, and was determined using a discounted cash flow analysis, based on the current rates for similar financial instruments of the
same duration and creditworthiness of the company. As of December 31, 2024, $1,473,393 of the total fair value of long-term debt would be categorized as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy, and $16,631 would be categorized as Level 3. As of December 31, 2023, $1,378,683 of the total fair value of long-term debt was categorized as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy, and $15,729 was categorized as Level 3.
SJWC
On July 14, 2022, SJWC entered into a note purchase agreement with certain affiliates of New York Life Insurance, Metropolitan Life Insurance, Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance, and John Hancock Life Insurance (collectively the “Purchasers”), pursuant to which the company sold an aggregate principal amount of $70,000 of its 4.85% Senior Notes, Series P (“Series P Notes”) to the Purchasers. The Series P Notes are unsecured obligations of SJWC and are due on February 1, 2053. Interest is payable semi-annually in arrears on February 1st and August 1st of each year. The closing of the note purchase agreement occurred on January 25, 2023.
On July 31, 2024, SJWC entered into and closed a note purchase agreement with certain institutional investors, pursuant to which the company sold an aggregate principal amount of $75,000 of its 5.63% Senior Notes, Series Q (“Series Q Notes”). The Series Q Notes are unsecured obligations of SJWC and are due on July 31, 2054. Interest is payable semi-annually in arrears on January 31st and July 31st of each year.
CWC
On November 15, 2023, CWC entered into a note purchase agreement with certain affiliates of American United Life Insurance, The State Life Insurance, Mutual of Omaha Insurance, and United of Omaha Life Insurance, pursuant to which the company sold an aggregate principal amount of $25,000 of its 6.46% Senior Notes, Series 2023 (“Series 2023 Notes”). The Series 2023 Notes are unsecured obligations of CWC and are due on January 15, 2054. Interest is payable semi-annually in arrears on January 15th and July 15th of each year. The closing of the notes purchase agreement occurred on January 22, 2024.
On July 31, 2024, CWC entered into a note purchase agreement with certain institutional investors, pursuant to which the company sold an aggregate principal amount of $50,000 of its 5.78% Senior Notes, Series 2024 (“Series 2024 Notes”). The Series 2024 Notes are unsecured obligations of CWC and are due on July 31, 2054. Interest is payable semi-annually in arrears on January 31st and July 31st of each year. The closing of the notes purchase agreement occurred in August 2024.
TWC and TWR
In August 2023, TWR closed on an asset acquisition that included an obligation for a post-closing production payment of $29,000 to the seller over a period of up to 29 years. The repayment schedule is based on the quantity of groundwater produced from the acquired wells, subject to certain provisions in the purchase agreement. The difference between the gross obligation of $29,000 and the fair value at the date of acquisition is reflected as a debt discount and is being amortized as interest expense using the effective interest method over the life of the obligation. During the third quarter of 2024, TWC assumed the obligation in connection with an asset purchase agreement pursuant to which TWC acquired all of the net assets of TWR.
On December 6, 2024, TWC issued a promissory note to a national cooperative bank under an existing master loan agreement for a principal amount of $20,000 at a fixed interest rate of 6.47%. This note is an unsecured obligation of TWC due on November 20, 2054. Interest is payable quarterly in arrears on the 20th day of January, April, July and October of each year. In January 2025, TWC amended the existing master loan agreement to modify one of the financial covenants. All of the other terms and conditions remain the same.
MWC
On December 6, 2024, MWC issued a promissory note to a national cooperative bank under an existing master loan agreement for a principal amount of $15,000 at a fixed interest rate of 6.47%. This note is an unsecured obligation of MWC due on November 20, 2054. Interest is payable quarterly in arrears on the 20th day of January, April, July and October of each year.
CTWS
On February 6, 2023, CTWS entered into a third amendment to the amended and restated promissory note and supplement with CoBank to update the one of the stated terms regarding one of interest rate options from LIBOR plus the applicable rate to SOFR plus the applicable rate. CTWS previously locked the interest rate under this agreement to 4.09%, such that this amendment has no impact.
Financial Covenants
The debt and credit agreements of SJW Group and its subsidiaries contain various financial and other covenants. Non-compliance with these covenants could result in accelerated due dates and termination of the agreements. In addition, the credit agreements contain customary representations and warranties and subject to customary events of default, which may result in
outstanding notes becoming immediately due and payable. As of December 31, 2024, SJW Group and its subsidiaries were in compliance with all covenants related to its long-term debt agreements.
Note 7.Income Taxes
The components of income tax expense were:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2022 |
| Current: | | | | | |
| Federal | $ | (1,828) | | | 10,185 | | | 8,570 | |
| State | 443 | | | 4,281 | | | 3,170 | |
| Deferred: | | | | | |
| Federal | 11,063 | | | (8,871) | | | (3,223) | |
| State | (708) | | | 361 | | | (21) | |
| $ | 8,970 | | | 5,956 | | | 8,496 | |
The following table reconciles income tax expense to the amount computed by applying the federal statutory rate to income before income taxes of $102,937, $90,943 and $82,324 in 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2022 |
| Income tax at federal statutory rate | $ | 21,617 | | | 19,098 | | | 17,288 | |
| Increase (decrease) in taxes attributable to: | | | | | |
| State taxes, net of federal income tax benefit | 6,488 | | | 6,001 | | | 5,328 | |
| | | | | |
| Uncertain tax positions | (1,053) | | | (4,330) | | | 1,483 | |
| Property flow-through | (14,793) | | | (9,045) | | | (13,091) | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| Reversal of excess deferred taxes recognized in regulatory liability | (3,227) | | | (3,625) | | | (3,885) | |
| Pension flow-through | (530) | | | (597) | | | 27 | |
| Stock-based compensation | 192 | | | (491) | | | (297) | |
| | | | | |
| Other items, net | 276 | | | (1,055) | | | 1,643 | |
| $ | 8,970 | | | 5,956 | | | 8,496 | |
The components of the net deferred tax liability as of December 31 was as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| Deferred tax assets: | | | |
| Advances and contributions | $ | 26,744 | | | 25,714 | |
| Unamortized investment tax credit | 1,061 | | | 517 | |
| Pensions, postretirement benefits and stock-based compensation | 12,529 | | | 17,844 | |
| Debt premium, net | 3,446 | | | 4,157 | |
| California franchise tax | 503 | | | 713 | |
| | | |
| Deferred revenue | — | | | 841 | |
| Tax related regulatory liability | 23,112 | | | 24,358 | |
| Other | 6,337 | | | 7,077 | |
| | | |
| | | |
| Total deferred tax assets | 73,732 | | | 81,221 | |
| Deferred tax liabilities: | | | |
| Utility plant | 277,085 | | | 243,786 | |
| Pension and postretirement | 9,068 | | | 13,247 | |
| Deferred gain and other-property | 608 | | | 6,456 | |
| Regulatory asset - business combinations debt premium, net | 3,446 | | | 4,157 | |
| Intangibles | 2,443 | | | 2,693 | |
| Deferred revenue | 1,418 | | | — | |
| Tax related regulatory asset | 50,728 | | | 44,155 | |
| | | |
| | | |
| Other | 4,979 | | | 5,255 | |
| Total deferred tax liabilities | 349,775 | | | 319,749 | |
| Net deferred tax liabilities | $ | 276,043 | | | 238,528 | |
Management evaluates the realizability of deferred tax assets based on all available evidence, both positive and negative. The realization of deferred tax assets is dependent on our ability to generate sufficient future taxable income during periods in which the deferred tax assets are expected to reverse. Based on all available evidence, management believes it is more likely than not that SJW Group will realize the benefits of its deferred tax assets. Net operating loss carryforwards expire beginning in 2032 and ending in 2043. As of December 31, 2024, the estimated amount of net operating loss carryforwards available to offset future taxable income for Connecticut purposes is $21,692. The estimated state tax credit carryforwards are $970, which will expire beginning in 2025 and ending in 2048.
The change in the net deferred tax liabilities of $37,515 in 2024 resulted from other non-cash items primarily consisting of regulatory assets and liabilities relating to income tax temporary differences.
The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits, before the impact of deductions for state taxes, excluding interest and penalties was $3,707 and $4,511 as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The amount of tax benefits, net of any federal benefits for state taxes that would impact the effective rate, if recognized, is approximately $3,150 and $4,048 as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2022 |
| Balance at beginning of year | $ | 4,511 | | | 9,004 | | | 7,961 | |
| Increase related to tax positions taken during the current year | 658 | | | 231 | | | 1,549 | |
| Increase related to tax positions taken during a prior year | 380 | | | 364 | | | — | |
| Reductions related to statute expiration | (1,701) | | | (1,191) | | | (284) | |
| Reductions related to tax positions taken in a prior year | (141) | | | (3,897) | | | (222) | |
| | | | | |
| Balance at end of year | $ | 3,707 | | | 4,511 | | | 9,004 | |
The decrease in gross unrecognized tax benefits in 2024 was primarily due to expiry of statute of limitations.
The decrease in gross unrecognized tax benefits in 2023 was primarily due to the release of uncertain tax position reserve relating to repairs tax deductions. In April 2023, the IRS issued additional tax guidance that has allowed SJW Group to revisit certain historical income tax reserves. Pursuant to the issuance of this guidance, which provided additional clarification regarding some of the uncertain tax areas, the company re-evaluated the risk relating to repair deductions. The result of the analysis led to a release of uncertain tax position reserve. The release relates to repairs expenditures which are more likely than not to be sustained on audit. The net release due to re-evaluation of the reserve was $3,125.
SJW Group’s policy is to classify interest and penalties associated with unrecognized tax benefits, if any, in tax expense. Accrued interest expense, net of the benefit of tax deductions which would be available on the payment of such interest, is approximately $316 as of December 31, 2024. SJW Group has not accrued any penalties for unrecognized tax benefits. The amount of interest recognized in 2024 was a decrease to expense of $139.
SJW Group currently does not expect uncertain tax positions to change significantly over the next 12 months.
SJW Group files U.S. federal income tax returns and income tax returns in various states and is subject to ordinary statute of limitation of three years for federal and three or four years for different state returns. However, due to tax attribute carryforwards, SJW Group is subject to examination for tax years 2012 forward for state returns of CTWS and its subsidiaries. The statute of limitations for SJW Group returns is closed for these extended years and remains open for 2021 and forward for federal and 2020 or 2021 and forward for different states.
Note 8.Intangible Assets
Utility plant intangible assets consist of $28,386 of indefinite-lived water rights, $13,400 related to the purchase premium for customer relationships, and other intangibles of $9,818 as of December 31, 2024. Other intangibles primarily consist of $4,292 for service area expansions and other by TWC, $1,400 for customer relationships and $1,040 incurred in conjunction with Valley Water water contracts related to the operation of SJWC. In connection with a transaction in the third quarter of 2024, TWC purchased all assets from TWR for use in utility operations. Accordingly, SJW Group reclassified $28,386 related to indefinite life water rights from other intangible assets to utility plant intangible assets.
Amortization expense for the intangible assets was $1,429, $1,310 and $3,869 for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Amortization expense for 2025 through 2029 and thereafter is anticipated to be approximately $1,395 per year.
The components of intangible assets as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 are as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| Utility Plant Intangible Assets: | | | |
| Indefinite-lived water rights | $ | 28,386 | | | — | |
| Purchase premium customer relationships | 13,400 | | | 13,400 | |
| Concession fees | — | | | 6,800 | |
| Other intangibles | 9,818 | | | 15,746 | |
| Utility plant intangible assets | 51,604 | | | 35,946 | |
| Less: Accumulated amortization | | | |
| Purchase premium customer relationships | 4,667 | | | 3,774 | |
| Concession fees | — | | | 6,754 | |
| Other intangibles | 4,858 | | | 10,361 | |
| Utility plant net intangible assets | $ | 42,079 | | | 15,057 | |
| Other Intangible Asset: | | | |
| Indefinite-lived water rights | $ | — | | | $ | 28,386 | |
Note 9.Commitments
SJWC purchases water from Valley Water under terms of a master contract expiring in 2051. Delivery schedules for purchased water are based on a contract year beginning July 1, and are negotiated every three years under terms of the master contract with Valley Water. For the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, SJWC purchased from Valley Water 17.0 billion gallons ($117,698), 18.3 billion gallons ($111,173) and 18.2 billion gallons ($96,793), respectively, of contract water. On June 12, 2024, the Valley Water Board of Directors approved treated water deliveries reflecting the contractual delivery schedule reduced by 23% through June 30, 2025. Based on current prices and estimated deliveries, SJWC is committed to purchase from
Valley Water a minimum of 90% of the reduced delivery schedule, or 18.9 billion gallons ($135,975) of water at the current contract water rate of $7.194 million per billion gallons for the year ending December 31, 2025. Additionally, SJWC purchases non-contract water from Valley Water on an “as needed” basis if the water supply is available.
SJWC operates the Cupertino municipal water system under a service concession arrangement. The system is adjacent to the SJWC service area and has approximately 4,700 service connections. The original agreement commenced in October 1997 and expired on September 30, 2024. Effective October 2024, SJWC entered into a new 12-year agreement with the City of Cupertino subject to an additional term of eight years if agreed to by the parties. SJWC paid an upfront concession fee of $22.1 million in 2024 and agreed to pay, beginning in 2024, an annual investment rent of $1.8 million, subject to annual adjustment based on a specified construction cost index. The concession fees are amortized as reductions to operating revenue over the applicable contract term and the annual investment rent payments are amortized as reductions to operating revenue over the annual period to which they relate. Under the terms of the agreement, SJWC assumes responsibility for all maintenance and operating costs of the system, while receiving all payments for water service.
CWC is able, but under no obligation, to purchase up to one million gallons of water per day from the South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority (“RWA”), at the then-current wholesale rates per the agreement, $3.1 million per billion gallons as of December 31, 2024. CWC has an agreement with The Metropolitan District (“MDC”) to purchase water from MDC to serve the Unionville system. The agreement became effective on October 6, 2000 and has a term of fifty years beginning May 19, 2003, the date the water supply facilities related to the agreement were placed in service. CWC agrees to purchase 0.28 billion gallons of water annually from MDC. The rate charged by the MDC at December 31, 2024 was three dollars and eighty cents per hundred cubic feet.
TWC has long-term contracts with the GBRA. The terms of the agreements expire in 2037, 2040, 2044 and 2050, respectively. The agreements, which are take-or-pay contracts, provide TWC with 7,602 acre-feet per year of water supply from Canyon Lake. The water rate may be adjusted by GBRA at any time, provided they give TWC a 60-day written notice on the proposed adjustment. TWC also has raw water supply agreements with the Lower Colorado River Authority and West Travis County Public Utility Agency expiring in 2059 and 2046, respectively, to provide for 350 acre-feet of water per year from Lake Austin and the Colorado River, respectively, at prices that may be adjusted periodically by the agencies.
MWC has an agreement with the Kennebec Water District for potable water service. The agreement has been in place for 20 years and was extended on November 7, 2020 for a new term of up to 20 years. MWC guarantees a minimum consumption of 0.05 billion gallons of water annually. Water sales to MWC are billed at a wholesale discount of twenty cents per hundred cubic feet of water below Kennebec Water District's tariffed rates. The current tariff rate was one dollar and fifty-one cents per hundred cubic feet as of December 31, 2024.
As of December 31, 2024, SJWC had 395 employees, of whom 241 were members of unions. In the first quarter of 2023, SJWC executed three-year bargaining agreements with the International Union of Operating Engineers (“OE”), representing certain employees in the engineering department, and the Utility Workers of America (“UWUA”), representing the majority of all nonadministrative employees at SJWC covering the period from January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2025. The agreements include a 6% wage increase provided in 2023, 3.5% in 2024 and 5.5% in 2025 for union employees.
Note 10.Contingencies
SJW Group and its subsidiaries are subject to ordinary routine litigation incidental to its business. In October 2023, CWC, a subsidiary of SJW Group, was named as a defendant in a putative class action lawsuit alleging that the water provided by CWC contained contaminants. The case is currently pending in the State of Connecticut Superior Court. CWC is vigorously defending itself in this lawsuit. At this time, SJW Group is unable to provide a reasonable estimate of any loss.
SJWC and CWC are plaintiffs in a lawsuit against manufacturers of certain PFAS compounds for damages, contribution and reimbursement of costs incurred and continuing to be incurred to address the presence of such PFAS compounds in public water supply systems owned and operated by these utility subsidiaries and throughout their respective service areas. The lawsuit is part of Multi-District Litigation (“MDL”), that commenced on December 7, 2018, in the United States District Court for the District of South Carolina. MWC has submitted timely claims as a settlement class member.
On February 8, 2024, the MDL court approved settlements involving defendants The Chemours Company, Corteva, Inc., and DuPont de Nemours, Inc. to resolve claims brought in the MDL against them by public water systems, including SJWC and CWC. On March 29, 2024, the MDL court approved a similar settlement involving defendant 3M. On November 22, 2024, the MDL court approved settlements involving defendants Tyco Fire Products LP, Chemgaurd, Inc., and BASF Corporation. SJW Group is monitoring and evaluating the ongoing litigation and settlement activity with the PFAS manufacturers for potential impacts to the various claims that these utility subsidiaries have asserted.
Note 11.Benefit Plans
Pension Plans
SJW Group maintains noncontributory defined benefit pension plans for its eligible employees. SJWC employees hired before March 31, 2008 and CWC and MWC employees hired before January 1, 2009 are entitled to benefits under the pension plans based on the employee’s years of service and compensation. For SJWC employees hired on or after March 31, 2008, benefits are determined using a cash balance formula based upon compensation credits and interest credits for each employee. Effective January 1, 2023, TWC employees became eligible to participate under SJWC’s cash balance plan. Interest is credited based on the annual yield on 30-year Treasury bonds as of October for the preceding plan year with a minimum annual rate of 3.25% and a maximum annual rate of 6.00%. For the year ended December 31, 2024, the interest credits assumption was 4.00%. Certain employees hired before March 1, 2012, and covered by a plan merged into the CWC plan in 2013 are also entitled to benefits based on the employee’s years of service and compensation. CTWS employees hired on or after January 1, 2009 are entitled to an additional 1.5% of eligible compensation to their company sponsored savings plan. SJW Group does not have multi-employer plans.
The pension plans are administered by their respective committees where the investment strategy of the investments of the various pension and postretirement benefit plans are reviewed and approved to achieve the goals of income generation and long-term capital preservation. SJW Group engages third-party investment consultants and managers to assist with, among other things, asset allocation strategy, investment policy advice, performance monitoring, and investment manager due diligence. Individual investment decisions have been delegated by the pension plan committees to the investment managers who are also monitored by an investment consultant. Investment managers are not permitted to invest outside of the asset class or strategy under the pension plans’ investment guidelines. The committees ensure that the plans establish a target mix that is expected to achieve its investment objectives by assuring a broad diversification of investment assets among investment types, while minimizing volatility of the target asset mix, unless market conditions make such a change appropriate to reduce risk. The pension plans require a minimum portion of plan assets to be allocated to fixed income securities and provide guidelines and restrictions on equity investments for the assets.
Plan assets are marked to market at each measurement date, resulting in unrealized actuarial gains or losses. Unrealized actuarial gains and losses on pension assets are amortized over the expected future working lifetime of participants for actuarial expense calculation purposes.
Generally, it is expected of the investment managers that the performance of the assets held in the pension plans, computed on a total annual rate of return basis, should meet or exceed specific performance standards over a three-to-five-year period and/or full market cycle. These standards include specific absolute and risk-adjusted performance standards over a three-to-five-year period and/or full market cycle. The expected long-term rate of return on the pension plan assets is between 6.25% and 6.75% for the year ended December 31, 2024.
SJW Group calculates the market-related value of defined benefit pension plan assets, which is defined under FASB ASC Topic 715—“Compensation—Retirement Benefits,” as a balance used to calculate the expected return on plan assets, using fair value. The fair value is based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and significant observable inputs.
Certain senior management hired before March 31, 2008 for SJWC and January 1, 2009 for CWC are eligible to receive additional retirement benefits under the supplemental executive retirement plans and retirement contracts (collectively, “SERP”). SJWC’s senior management hired on or after March 31, 2008 are eligible to receive additional retirement benefits under SJWC’s Cash Balance Executive Supplemental Retirement Plan (“Cash Balance Executive Supplemental Retirement Plan”). Both of the plans are non-qualified plans in which only senior management and other designated members of management may participate. The annual cost of the plans has been included in the determination of the net periodic benefit cost shown below. The SERP and Cash Balance Executive Supplemental Retirement Plan had a projected benefit obligation of $40,328 and $43,001 as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, and net periodic pension cost of $3,879, $3,257 and $4,400 for 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, the amounts not recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost was $169, $314, and $1,640, respectively, recorded as other comprehensive income on the consolidated financial statements. SJWC’s non-qualified plans are unfunded while CWC’s SERP is funded through investments consisting primarily of life insurance contracts and assets in a Rabbi Trust. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, total investments made to fund CWC’s SERP were $7,336 and $6,843, respectively, which is included in “Investments” in SJW Group’s Consolidated Balance Sheets. The life insurance contracts are valued at cash surrender value of the policies as reported by the insurer. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the value of the life insurance contracts was $4,294 and $3,937, respectively.
The following tables summarize the fair values of the Rabbi Trust investment assets to fund CWC’s SERP by major categories as of December 31, 2024 and 2023:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2024 |
| Asset Category | | Total | | Quoted
Prices in
Active
Markets for
Identical
Assets
(Level 1) | | Significant
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2) | | Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3) |
| Money market funds | | $ | 28 | | | 28 | | | — | | | — | |
| Mutual funds | | 2,062 | | | 2,062 | | | — | | | — | |
| Fixed income | | 722 | | | 722 | | | — | | | — | |
| Total | | $ | 2,812 | | | 2,812 | | | — | | | — | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2023 |
| Asset Category | | Total | | Quoted
Prices in
Active
Markets for
Identical
Assets
(Level 1) | | Significant
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2) | | Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3) |
| Money market funds | | $ | 71 | | | 71 | | | — | | | — | |
| Mutual funds | | 2,053 | | | 2,053 | | | — | | | — | |
| Fixed income | | 709 | | | 709 | | | — | | | — | |
| Total | | $ | 2,833 | | | 2,833 | | | — | | | — | |
Other Postretirement Benefits
In addition to providing pension and savings benefits, the company also provides health care and life insurance benefits for eligible retired employees under the respective employer-sponsored postretirement benefits other than pension plans. The benefits are paid by the company and not from plan assets due to limitations imposed by Internal Revenue Service.
Flexible Spending Plan
SJW Group sponsors flexible spending account plans for its employees for the purpose of providing eligible employees with the opportunity to choose from among the fringe benefits available under the plans. The flexible spending plan is intended to qualify as a cafeteria plan under the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code Section 125. The flexible spending plan allows employees to save pre-tax income in a Health Care Spending Account (“HCSA”) and/or a Dependent Care Spending Account (“DCSA”) to help defray the cost of out-of-pocket medical and dependent care expenses. The annual maximum limit under the HCSA and DCSA plans is $3.2 and $5, respectively.
Savings Plans for Employees
SJW Group also sponsors salary deferral plans which are defined contribution plans that allow employees to defer and contribute a portion of their earnings to the plan. Contributions, not to exceed set limits, are matched by the company. SJW Group contributions were $4,221, $3,902 and $3,003 in 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. All of the company’s contributions are invested at the direction of the employees in funds offered under the plans.
Special Deferral Election Plans and Deferral Election Program
SJW Group maintains a special deferral election plan and a deferred compensation plan and agreements for senior management and a deferral election program for non-employee directors allowing for the deferral of a portion of their earnings each year and to realize an investment return on those funds during the deferral period. Senior management and non-employee directors have to make an election on the deferral and distribution method of the deferrals before services are rendered. CWC’s deferred compensation plan allows the company to make discretionary contributions. Senior management and non-employee directors had deferred $8,216 and $8,148 under the plans as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, $6,276 and $6,223, respectively, of the total amount deferred is related to CWC agreements.
Assumptions Utilized on Actuarial Calculations
Net periodic cost for the defined benefit plans and other postretirement benefits was calculated using the following assumptions:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Pension Benefits | | Other Postretirement Benefits |
| | 2024 | | 2023 | | 2022 | | 2024 | | 2023 | | 2022 |
| % | | % | | % | | % | | % | | % |
| Discount rate | 4.99 - 5.03 | | 4.95 - 5.24 | | 2.65 - 2.82 | | 4.95 - 5.01 | | 4.96 - 5.21 | | 2.61 - 2.76 |
| Expected return on plan assets | 6.25, 6.75 | | 6.00, 6.75 | | 6.50, 6.75 | | 4.20, 6.25 | | 4.20, 6.00 | | 4.20, 6.00 |
| Rate of compensation increase | 4.50, 5.00 | | 4.50, 5.00 | | 4.00, 4.50 | | N/A | | N/A | | N/A |
The expected rate of return on plan assets was determined based on a review of historical returns, for the pension plans and for medium- to large-sized defined benefit pension funds with similar asset allocations. This review generated separate expected returns for each asset class. These expected future returns were then blended based on the pension plans’ target asset allocations.
Benefit obligations for the defined benefit plans and other postretirement benefits were calculated using the following assumptions as of December 31:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Pension Benefits | | Other Postretirement Benefits |
| | 2024 | | 2023 | | 2024 | | 2023 |
| | % | | % | | % | | % |
| Discount rate | 5.55 - 5.63 | | 4.99 - 5.03 | | 5.48 - 5.58 | | 4.95 - 5.01 |
| Rate of compensation increase | 4.50 - 5.00 | | 4.50 - 5.00 | | N/A | | N/A |
SJW Group utilized each plan’s projected benefit stream in conjunction with the FTSE Pension Discount Curve in determining the discount rate used in calculating the pension and other postretirement benefits liabilities at the measurement date.
SJW Group has adopted MP-2021, Mortality Improvement Scales to determine mortality assumptions. The tables and scales reflect increasing life expectancies of participants in the United States. See also “Reconciliation of Funded Status” below.
For other postretirement benefits, the assumed healthcare cost trend rate for 2025 is 8.00%, grading down gradually to 4.50% by 2032.
Net Periodic Pension Costs
Net periodic costs for the defined benefit plans and other postretirement benefits for the years ended December 31 was as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Pension Benefits | | Other Postretirement Benefits |
| | 2024 | | 2023 | | 2022 | | 2024 | | 2023 | | 2022 |
| Components of net periodic benefit cost | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Service cost | $ | 6,662 | | | 7,569 | | | 9,359 | | | $ | 665 | | | 638 | | | 1,032 | |
| Interest cost | 14,451 | | | 14,234 | | | 10,708 | | | 1,181 | | | 1,268 | | | 883 | |
| Expected return on assets | (17,852) | | | (15,440) | | | (18,841) | | | (1,068) | | | (860) | | | (1,047) | |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Amortization of prior service cost | 15 | | | 15 | | | 17 | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
| Amortization of actuarial (gain) loss | (71) | | | 2,210 | | | 4,620 | | | (643) | | | (350) | | | (115) | |
| Recognition of significant event | — | | | — | | | (1,595) | | | — | | | — | | | — | |
| Net periodic benefit cost | $ | 3,205 | | | 8,588 | | | 4,268 | | | $ | 135 | | | 696 | | | 753 | |
Reconciliation of Funded Status
For the defined benefit plans and other postretirement benefits, the benefit obligation is the projected benefit obligation and the accumulated benefit obligation, respectively. The projected benefit obligations and the funded status of the defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans as of December 31 were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Pension Benefits | | Other Postretirement Benefits |
| | 2024 | | 2023 | | 2024 | | 2023 |
| Change in benefit obligation | | | | | | | |
| Benefit obligation at beginning of year | $ | 297,834 | | | 289,123 | | | $ | 24,264 | | | 25,830 | |
| Service cost | 6,662 | | | 7,569 | | | 665 | | | 638 | |
| Interest cost | 14,451 | | | 14,234 | | | 1,181 | | | 1,268 | |
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
| Actuarial loss (gain) | (14,816) | | | 5,794 | | | (146) | | | (2,645) | |
| Implicit rate subsidy | — | | | — | | | (336) | | | (237) | |
| Plan participants contributions | — | | | — | | | 183 | | | 179 | |
| Administrative expenses paid | (146) | | | (137) | | | — | | | — | |
| Benefits paid and settlements | (16,941) | | | (18,749) | | | (731) | | | (769) | |
| Benefit obligation at end of year | $ | 287,044 | | | 297,834 | | | $ | 25,080 | | | 24,264 | |
| Change in plan assets | | | | | | | |
| Fair value of assets at beginning of year | $ | 285,504 | | | 251,960 | | | $ | 21,207 | | | 17,952 | |
| Actual return on plan assets | 31,523 | | | 41,285 | | | 2,879 | | | 3,136 | |
| | | | | | | |
| Employer contributions | 8,007 | | | 11,145 | | | 7 | | | 920 | |
| Plan participants contributions | — | | | — | | | 183 | | | 179 | |
| Administrative expenses paid | (146) | | | (137) | | | (71) | | | (67) | |
| Benefits paid and settlements | (16,941) | | | (18,749) | | | (980) | | | (913) | |
| Fair value of plan assets at end of year | 307,947 | | | 285,504 | | | 23,225 | | | 21,207 | |
| Funded status at end of year | $ | 20,903 | | | (12,330) | | | $ | (1,855) | | | (3,057) | |
For the year ended December 31, 2024, the net actuarial gain on the benefit obligation was related primarily to a gain from changes in the discount rate of $21,129 and a $6,005 loss from pension data changes. For the year ended December 31, 2023, the net actuarial gain of the benefit obligation was related primarily to a gain from changes of discount rate of $1,188 and a $1,993 loss from pension data changes.
The amounts recognized on the balance sheet as of December 31 were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Pension Benefits | | Other Postretirement Benefits |
| | 2024 | | 2023 | | 2024 | | 2023 |
| Noncurrent assets | $ | 61,231 | | | 30,671 | | | $ | 5,191 | | | 3,123 | |
| Current liabilities | (2,308) | | | (2,365) | | | (146) | | | (113) | |
| Noncurrent liabilities | (38,020) | | | (40,636) | | | (6,900) | | | (6,067) | |
| $ | 20,903 | | | (12,330) | | | $ | (1,855) | | | (3,057) | |
As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the accumulated benefit obligation of the defined benefit pension plans was $263,607 and $270,209, respectively.
The following table provides selected information about plans with projected benefit obligation and accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets as of December 31:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| Pension Benefits: | | | |
| Plans with projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets: | | | |
| Projected benefit obligation | $ | 40,328 | | | $ | 43,001 | |
| Fair value of plan assets | — | | | — | |
| Plans with accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets: | | | |
| Accumulated benefit obligation | 38,053 | | | 39,652 | |
| Fair value of plan assets | — | | | — | |
| Other Postretirement Benefits: | | | |
| Plans with accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets: | | | |
| Accumulated benefit obligation | 16,891 | | | 15,580 | |
| Fair value of plan assets | 9,844 | | | 9,401 | |
SJW Group recognizes regulatory assets and liabilities that represent actuarial losses and gains and prior service cost that have not yet been recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost for certain of its pension and other postretirement benefit plans, in accordance with ASC Topic 980. SJW Group recorded regulatory assets of $3,177 and $24,593 as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, and regulatory liabilities of $27,872 and $20,196 as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the amounts deferred in regulatory assets that have not yet been recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost include net loss of $3,150 and $24,552, respectively, and prior service cost of $27 and $41, respectively. As of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the amounts deferred in regulatory liabilities that have not yet been recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost include net gain of $27,872 and $20,196, respectively.
Plan Assets
Plan assets as of December 31 were as follows:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | Pension Benefits | | Other Postretirement Benefits |
| | 2024 | | 2023 | | 2024 | | 2023 |
| Fair value of assets at end of year: | | | | | | | |
| Debt securities | $ | 116,987 | | | 101,498 | | | $ | 5,368 | | | 5,596 | |
| 38 | % | | 36 | % | | 23 | % | | 26 | % |
| Equity securities | 179,103 | | | 174,155 | | | 16,737 | | | 14,424 | |
| 58 | % | | 61 | % | | 72 | % | | 68 | % |
| Cash and equivalents | 11,857 | | | 9,851 | | | 1,120 | | | 1,187 | |
| 4 | % | | 3 | % | | 5 | % | | 6 | % |
| Total | $ | 307,947 | | | 285,504 | | | $ | 23,225 | | | 21,207 | |
The following tables summarize the fair values of plan assets by major categories as of December 31, 2024 and 2023:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2024 |
| Asset Category | Total | | Quoted
Prices in
Active
Markets for
Identical
Assets
(Level 1) | | Significant
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2) | | Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3) |
| Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 12,977 | | | 12,977 | | | — | | | — | |
| Equity securities (a) | 195,840 | | | 195,840 | | | — | | | — | |
| Fixed Income (b) | 122,355 | | | 46,549 | | | 75,806 | | | — | |
| Total | $ | 331,172 | | | 255,366 | | | 75,806 | | | — | |
___________________________________
(a)Actively managed portfolio of equity securities with the goal to exceed the benchmark performance.
(b)Actively managed portfolio of fixed income securities with the goal to exceed the benchmark performance
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2023 |
| Asset Category | Total | | Quoted
Prices in
Active
Markets for
Identical
Assets
(Level 1) | | Significant
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2) | | Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3) |
| Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 11,038 | | | 11,038 | | | — | | | — | |
| Equity securities | 188,579 | | | 188,579 | | | — | | | — | |
| Fixed Income | 107,094 | | | 39,048 | | | 68,046 | | | — | |
| Total | $ | 306,711 | | | 238,665 | | | 68,046 | | | — | |
In 2025, SJW Group expects to make required and discretionary cash contributions of up to $6,680 to the pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans.
Benefits expected to be paid in the next five years and in the aggregate for the five years thereafter are:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Pension Plans | | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans |
| 2025 | $ | 17,730 | | | $ | 1,765 | |
| 2026 | 23,536 | | | 1,840 | |
| 2027 | 19,615 | | | 1,910 | |
| 2028 | 19,526 | | | 1,874 | |
| 2029 | 20,233 | | | 1,841 | |
| 2030 - 2034 | 109,784 | | | 9,656 | |
Note 12.Equity Plans
Common Stock
SJW Group’s long-term incentive plans provide employees, non-employee board members or the board of directors of any parent or subsidiary, consultants, and other independent advisors who provide services to the company or subsidiary the opportunity to acquire an equity interest in SJW Group. SJW Group also maintains stock plans in connection with its acquisition of CTWS which are no longer granting new stock awards. In addition, shares are issued to employees under SJW Group’s employee stock purchase plan.
On April 26, 2023, SJW Group adopted the successor plans, the 2023 Long-Term Incentive Plan and the 2023 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, to replace the Amended and Restated Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “Predecessor Incentive Plan”) and the 2014 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “Predecessor ESPP”), respectively. The Predecessor Incentive Plan terminated on April 23, 2023 and the Predecessor ESPP terminated on July 31, 2023. Each outstanding award under the Predecessor Incentive Plan will remain outstanding under the Predecessor Incentive Plan and shall be governed solely by the terms of the documents evidencing such awards. The 2023 Long-Term Incentive Plan reserves a total of 1,142,000 shares of SJW Group’s common
stock for issuance to employees, non-employee board members or the board of directors of any parent or subsidiary, consultants, and other independent advisors who provide services to the SJW Group and its subsidiaries. The 2023 Employee Stock Purchase Plan reserves for a total of 500,000 shares of SJW Group’s common stock for issuance for eligible employees to purchase common stock at a discount through accumulated payroll deductions. Remaining reserves for both of the predecessor plans were terminated with the adoption of the successor plans.
A participant in the plans generally may not receive plan awards covering an aggregate of more than 600,000 shares of common stock in any calendar year. Additionally, awards granted under the plans may be conditioned upon the attainment of specified Company performance goals. The types of awards included in the plans are restricted stock awards, restricted stock units, performance shares, or other share-based awards. In addition, shares are issued to employees under the employee stock purchase plan (“ESPP”) that was approved by SJW Group stockholders.
As of December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, 1,142,770, 1,080,759 and 1,013,782 shares have been issued pursuant to the plans, and 191,177, 150,704 and 162,502 shares are issuable upon the vesting of outstanding restricted stock units, performance-based stock units, and deferred restricted stock units for the years ended 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The remaining shares available for issuance under the plans are 1,030,998 as of December 31, 2024. The compensation costs charged to income is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period.
A summary of compensation costs charged to income and proceeds from share-based compensation, which are recorded to additional paid-in capital and common stock, by award type, are presented below for the years ended December 31:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2022 |
| Compensation costs charged to income: | | | | | |
| ESPP | $ | 557 | | | 378 | | | 369 | |
| Restricted stock and deferred restricted stock | 5,066 | | | 4,269 | | | 4,422 | |
| Total compensation costs charged to income | $ | 5,623 | | | 4,647 | | | 4,791 | |
| ESPP proceeds | $ | 2,188 | | | 2,141 | | | 2,091 | |
Restricted Stock and Deferred Restricted Stock
A summary of SJW Group’s outstanding restricted and deferred restricted stock awards under the Plan as of December 31, 2024, and changes during the year ended December 31, 2024, are presented below:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Units | | Weighted-
Average Grant-
Date Fair Value |
| Outstanding as of January 1, 2024 | 150,704 | | | $ | 72.65 | |
| Granted | 116,598 | | | $ | 56.18 | |
| Issued | (62,011) | | | $ | 66.00 | |
| Forfeited | (14,114) | | | $ | 64.60 | |
| Outstanding as of December 31, 2024 | 191,177 | | | $ | 65.36 | |
| Shares vested as of December 31, 2024 | 32,021 | | | $ | 70.59 | |
A summary of the status of SJW Group’s nonvested restricted and deferred restricted stock awards under the plans as of December 31, 2024, and changes during the year ended December 31, 2024, are presented below:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| Units | | Weighted- Average Grant-
Date Fair Value |
| Nonvested as of January 1, 2024 | 123,545 | | | $ | 73.93 | |
| Granted | 116,598 | | | $ | 56.18 | |
| Vested | (70,366) | | | $ | 67.56 | |
| Forfeited | (10,621) | | | $ | 65.54 | |
| Nonvested as of December 31, 2024 | 159,156 | | | $ | 64.30 | |
Total fair value of restricted stock awards for all plans that were vested for the years ended 2024, 2023 and 2022 were $4,788, $4,170 and $4,369, respectively. As of December 31, 2024, the total unrecognized compensation costs related to restricted and
deferred restricted stock plans amounted to $5,485. This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.72 years.
For the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, 33,670, 15,955 and 11,551, respectively, of performance-based and market-based restricted stock awards were issued upon the attainment of certain performance metrics and service-based vesting under the Plan. Based upon actual attainment relative to the target performance metric, the number of shares issuable can range between 0% to 150% of the target number of shares for performance-based restricted stock awards, or between 0% and 200% of the target number of shares for market-based restricted stock awards. As of December 31, 2024, 30,770 performance-based and market-based restricted stock awards vested and 29,199 remained outstanding.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
The ESPP allows eligible employees to purchase shares of SJW Group’s common stock at 85% of the fair value of shares on the purchase date. Under the ESPP, employees can designate up to a maximum of 10% of their base compensation for the purchase of shares of common stock, subject to certain restrictions. A total of 500,000 shares of SJW Group’s common stock have been reserved for issuance under the ESPP. The remaining shares available for issuance under the ESPP are 457,147 as of December 31, 2024.
For the year ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, a total of 42,853, 34,122 and 36,585 shares, respectively, were issued under the ESPP. The plan has no look-back provisions.
Note 13.Segment Reporting
SJW Group’s single reportable segment provides water utility and utility-related services to its customers through SJW Group’s subsidiaries, SJWC, CWC, TWC, MWC, and Acequia, which are aggregated and referred to as “Water Utility Services.” Water Utility Services’ activities are water utility operations with both regulated and non-tariffed businesses. Other business activities that do not comprise separately reportable segments primarily include SJWC’s City of Cupertino service concession arrangement operations, property management and investment activity conducted by SJW Land Company and Chester Realty, Inc., contract water and sewer operations and other water-related services provided by NEWUS and are referred to as “Other Services.”
SJW Group’s operating segments have been determined based on information used by the chief operating decision maker. SJW Group’s chief operating decision maker (“CODM”) includes the Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer; the Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer; the Chief Operating Officer; the Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer; and the Vice President and General Counsel. However, ultimate decision-making authority rests with the Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer. The CODM reviews financial information presented on a consolidated basis that is accompanied by certain disaggregated information about operating revenue, expenses, net income, and total assets. The CODM uses the net income to assess the financial performance of the segments and allocate resources (including employees, financial, or capital resources) in the budgeting and forecasting process.
Previously, SJW Group presented a separate reportable segment for Real Estate Services and also presented a disaggregation of regulated and non-tariffed activities within the Water Utility Services reportable segment. Considering the sale of the Tennessee properties, as discussed in Note 2, which were part of the Real Estate Services segment, management has updated its segment presentation and has recast the prior periods presented to conform with the current period presentation. Under the current presentation, the activities of Water Utility Services previously presented as “non-tariffed” are generally presented as “Other Services” along with the real estate activity. Certain allocated assets, such as goodwill, revenue and expenses have been included in the reportable segment amounts. Certain corporate costs and expenses are not allocated to Water Utility Services or Other Services and are shown separately to reconcile to the applicable consolidated amounts.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | For the year ended December 31, 2024 |
| Reportable Segment | | | | | | |
| | Water Utility Services | | Other Services (1) | | Unallocated Corporate (2) | | Consolidated |
| Operating revenue | $ | 732,580 | | | 15,859 | | | — | | | 748,439 | |
| | | | | | | |
| Less: | | | | | | | |
| Production expenses | 286,763 | | | 5,259 | | | — | | | 292,022 | |
| Administrative and general | 97,420 | | | 2,632 | | | 5,778 | | | 105,830 | |
| Maintenance | 29,249 | | | 2,052 | | | — | | | 31,301 | |
| Property taxes and other non-income taxes | 35,223 | | | 317 | | | 388 | | | 35,928 | |
| Depreciation and amortization | 111,709 | | | 253 | | | 893 | | | 112,855 | |
| Interest on long-term debt and other interest expense | 47,485 | | | 521 | | | 23,384 | | | 71,390 | |
| | | | | | | |
| Provision (benefit) for income taxes | 17,134 | | | 1,569 | | | (9,733) | | | 8,970 | |
| Other (3) | (920) | | | 191 | | | (3,095) | | | (3,824) | |
| Net income (loss) | $ | 108,517 | | | 3,065 | | | (17,615) | | | 93,967 | |
| | | | | | | |
| Capital expenditures | $ | 377,208 | | | 29 | | | — | | | 377,237 | |
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | For the year ended December 31, 2023 |
| Reportable Segment | | | | | | |
| | Water Utility Services | | Other Services (1) | | Unallocated Corporate (2) | | Consolidated |
| Operating revenue | $ | 652,045 | | | 18,318 | | | — | | | 670,363 | |
| | | | | | | |
| Less: | | | | | | | |
| Production expenses | 251,898 | | | 4,302 | | | — | | | 256,200 | |
| Administrative and general | 93,255 | | | 2,777 | | | 2,624 | | | 98,656 | |
| Maintenance | 23,972 | | | 1,757 | | | — | | | 25,729 | |
| Property taxes and other non-income taxes | 33,469 | | | 926 | | | 80 | | | 34,475 | |
| Depreciation and amortization | 104,329 | | | 646 | | | 893 | | | 105,868 | |
| Interest on long-term debt and other interest expense | 42,743 | | | 329 | | | 23,072 | | | 66,144 | |
| | | | | | | |
| Provision (benefit) for income taxes | 11,293 | | | 2,213 | | | (7,550) | | | 5,956 | |
| Other (3) | (4,279) | | | (121) | | | (3,252) | | | (7,652) | |
| Net income (loss) | $ | 95,365 | | | 5,489 | | | (15,867) | | | 84,987 | |
| | | | | | | |
| Capital expenditures | $ | 288,627 | | | 24,244 | | | — | | | 312,871 | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | For the year ended December 31, 2022 |
| Reportable Segment | | | | | | |
| | Water Utility Services | | Other Services (1) | | Unallocated Corporate (2) | | Consolidated |
| Operating revenue | $ | 603,000 | | | 17,698 | | | — | | | 620,698 | |
| | | | | | | |
| Less: | | | | | | | |
| Production expenses | 228,806 | | | 3,984 | | | — | | | 232,790 | |
| Administrative and general | 90,874 | | | 2,565 | | | 1,965 | | | 95,404 | |
| Maintenance | 29,063 | | | 1,671 | | | — | | | 30,734 | |
| Property taxes and other non-income taxes | 31,184 | | | 923 | | | 465 | | | 32,572 | |
| Depreciation and amortization | 99,412 | | | 4,112 | | | 893 | | | 104,417 | |
| Interest on long-term debt and other interest expense | 37,958 | | | — | | | 20,104 | | | 58,062 | |
| (Gain) loss on sale of nonutility property | (6,197) | | | — | | | — | | | (6,197) | |
| Provision (benefit) for income taxes | 12,756 | | | 1,161 | | | (5,421) | | | 8,496 | |
| Other (3) | (6,524) | | | (52) | | | (2,832) | | | (9,408) | |
| Net income (loss) | $ | 85,668 | | | 3,334 | | | (15,174) | | | 73,828 | |
| | | | | | | |
| Capital expenditures | $ | 241,719 | | | 631 | | | — | | | 242,350 | |
___________________________________
(1) The “Other Services” category includes the accounts of SJW Land Co, Chester Reality, Inc., SJWC’s Cupertino service concession arrangement operations, TWOS, TWR, and NEWUS, on a stand-alone basis.
(2) The “Unallocated Corporate” category includes the accounts of SJW Group, SJWNE LLC, SJWTX Holdings, Inc., CTWS, NWU on a stand-alone basis.
(3) Primarily comprised of pension non-service credit (cost) and items of miscellaneous non-operating income (expense).
SJW Group’s assets for the Water Utility Services reportable segment and all other are as follows as of December 31:
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2024 | | 2023 |
| Water Utility Services (reportable segment) | $ | 4,567,182 | | | 4,199,610 | |
| Other Services | 25,053 | | | 87,316 | |
| Unallocated Corporate | 66,074 | | | 58,141 | |
| Total assets | $ | 4,658,309 | | | 4,345,067 | |
Note 14.Acquisitions
KT Water
On January 13, 2023, TWC reached an agreement to acquire KT Water Development Ltd. (“KT Water Development”) and SJWTX Holdings, Inc. reached an agreement to acquire KT Water Resources L.P. (“KT Water Resources”). The agreement between SJWTX Holdings, Inc. and KT Water Resources, LP, was assigned to TWR prior to closing. KT Water Development was an investor-owned water utility providing water to approximately 1,725 people through over 570 service connections in the Rockwall Ranch subdivision in southern Comal County, Texas. KT Water Resources was a wholesale groundwater resource supplier to KT Water Development formed to develop wholesale water supplies for the fast-growing utilities of Comal County, Texas. The Public Utility Commission of Texas (“PUCT”) approved the proposed KT Water Development acquisition on July 24, 2023. The acquisition of KT Water Resources did not require PUCT approval. Both transactions closed on August 14, 2023. Further information regarding each of the acquisitions is set forth below.
KT Water Development
The purchase price of KT Water Development was $7,338, all of which was cash, and was determined in accordance with a fair market value process defined under the Texas Water Code. The transaction was accounted for as a business combination in accordance with ASC Topic 805. The transaction consideration was allocated to utility plant. The final purchase price allocation was completed during the quarter ended March 31, 2024, with no change from the preliminary purchase price allocation.
Transaction costs were not material. The results of KT Water Development have been included in SJW Group’s consolidated statements of comprehensive income since the acquisition date and were not material. Pro forma financial information has not been presented because the acquisition was not material to SJW Group’s consolidated financial statements.
KT Water Resources
The total purchase price of KT Water Resources was $39,891, consisting of a $24,491 up-front cash payment and an obligation for a post-closing production payment with an acquisition date fair value of $15,400. Considering transaction costs of $170, the total cost of the acquisition was $40,061. The KT Water Resources acquisition was accounted for as an asset acquisition in accordance with ASC Topic 805.
The total cost was allocated as follows based on the fair values of the assets acquired: $28,386 to other intangible asset, $11,684 to nonutility property, and $9 to other current liabilities. The other intangible asset represents indefinite-lived water rights. The nonutility property consists of wells, land, easements, and construction work in progress.
The post-closing production payment represents an obligation to pay a total amount of $29,000 to the seller over a period up to 29 years. The repayment schedule is based on the quantity of groundwater produced from the acquired wells, subject to certain provisions in the purchase agreement. The fair value of the post-closing payment as of the acquisition date was determined by discounting forecasted repayments based on management’s estimates of future groundwater production. The difference between the fair value of $15,400 and the gross obligation of $29,000 was recorded as a debt discount and is being amortized as interest expense using the effective interest method over the life of the obligation. The post-closing production payment obligation is classified as long-term debt in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. In connection with a transaction in the third quarter of 2024, TWC purchased these assets from TWR for use in utility operations and assumed the post-closing payment obligation.
FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE
Schedule I
SJW Group (Parent Only)
CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands, except share and per share data)
| | | | | | | | | | | |
| | December 31, |
| | 2024 | | 2023 |
| Assets | | | |
| | | |
| Investments in subsidiaries | $ | 1,877,922 | | | 1,753,250 | |
| | | |
| Current assets: | | | |
| Cash and cash equivalents | 1,306 | | | 868 | |
| Intercompany receivables | 1,473 | | | 2,239 | |
| | | |
| Intercompany notes receivable | 74,119 | | | 69,746 | |
| Other current assets | 1,177 | | | 243 | |
| Total current assets | 78,075 | | | 73,096 | |
| Other assets | | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| Other | 222 | | | 193 | |
| Total other assets | 222 | | | 193 | |
| Total assets | $ | 1,956,219 | | | 1,826,539 | |
| | | |
| Capitalization and Liabilities | | | |
| Capitalization: | | | |
| Stockholders’ equity: | | | |
| Common stock, $0.001 par value; authorized 70,000,000 shares in 2024 and 2023; issued and outstanding 33,629,169 shares in 2024 and 32,023,004 shares in 2023 | $ | 34 | | | 32 | |
| Additional paid-in capital | 827,796 | | | 736,191 | |
| Retained earnings | 537,184 | | | 495,383 | |
| Accumulated other comprehensive income | 1,960 | | | 1,791 | |
| Total stockholders’ equity | 1,366,974 | | | 1,233,397 | |
| Long-term debt, less current portion | 557,430 | | | 557,028 | |
| Total capitalization | 1,924,404 | | | 1,790,425 | |
| Current liabilities: | | | |
| Line of credit | 3,000 | | | 10,000 | |
| Intercompany payables | 2,210 | | | — | |
| Intercompany notes payable | — | | | 1,726 | |
| Accounts payable | 1,588 | | | — | |
| Accrued interest | 3,224 | | | 3,255 | |
| Income tax payable | 16,871 | | | 16,427 | |
| Other current liabilities | 765 | | | 629 | |
| Total current liabilities | 27,658 | | | 32,037 | |
| Deferred income taxes | 2,488 | | | 3,099 | |
| | | |
| Other noncurrent liabilities | 1,669 | | | 978 | |
| Total capitalization and liabilities | $ | 1,956,219 | | | 1,826,539 | |
See Accompanying Notes to Schedule I
FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE
Schedule I
SJW Group (Parent Only)
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Years ended December 31 (in thousands)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2022 |
| Operating revenue | $ | — | | | — | | | — | |
| Operating expense: | | | | | |
| Administrative and general | 5,568 | | | 2,239 | | | 1,977 | |
| Property taxes and other non-income taxes | 388 | | | 80 | | | 93 | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| Total operating expense | 5,956 | | | 2,319 | | | 2,070 | |
| Operating loss | (5,956) | | | (2,319) | | | (2,070) | |
| Other (expense) income: | | | | | |
| Interest on long-term debt and other interest expense | (18,022) | | | (17,692) | | | (17,795) | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| Interest income on intercompany notes receivable | 6,756 | | | 3,862 | | | 81 | |
| Other, net | (3,456) | | | 1,034 | | | (421) | |
| Loss before income taxes and equity earnings from subsidiaries | (20,678) | | | (15,115) | | | (20,205) | |
| Income tax benefit | (5,727) | | | (4,294) | | | (5,523) | |
| Equity earnings from subsidiaries, net of taxes | 108,918 | | | 95,808 | | | 88,510 | |
| SJW Group net income | 93,967 | | | 84,987 | | | 73,828 | |
| Other comprehensive income, net | 169 | | | 314 | | | 1,640 | |
| SJW Group comprehensive income | $ | 94,136 | | | 85,301 | | | 75,468 | |
See Accompanying Notes to Schedule I
FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE
Schedule I
SJW Group (Parent Only)
CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Years ended December 31 (in thousands)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| 2024 | | 2023 | | 2022 |
| Operating activities: | | | | | |
| Net income | $ | 93,967 | | | 84,987 | | | 73,828 | |
| Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash used in operating activities: | | | | | |
| Earnings from investment in subsidiaries | (108,918) | | | (95,808) | | | (88,510) | |
| | | | | |
| Deferred income taxes | (618) | | | 718 | | | (163) | |
| Stock-based compensation | 687 | | | 696 | | | 779 | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquired assets and liabilities: | | | | | |
| Accounts payable and other current liabilities | 1,724 | | | 281 | | | 185 | |
| Intercompany receivables | (652) | | | (6,018) | | | (3,916) | |
| Tax payable and other accrued taxes | 452 | | | 1,550 | | | 6,883 | |
| Accrued interest | (31) | | | 47 | | | (15) | |
| Return on capital from investments in subsidiaries | 90,600 | | | 50,550 | | | 55,950 | |
| | | | | |
| Other changes, net | 532 | | | 607 | | | 500 | |
| Net cash provided by operating activities | 77,743 | | | 37,610 | | | 45,521 | |
| Investing activities: | | | | | |
| Proceeds to subsidiaries for notes receivable | (173,374) | | | (148,392) | | | (27,713) | |
| Repayments from subsidiaries for notes receivable | 169,001 | | | 91,740 | | | 20,634 | |
| Investments in subsidiaries | (97,000) | | | (25,500) | | | (25,892) | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| Net cash used in investing activities | (101,373) | | | (82,152) | | | (32,971) | |
| Financing activities: | | | | | |
| Borrowings from subsidiaries for notes payable | 27,098 | | | 700 | | | 15,355 | |
| Repayments to subsidiaries for notes payable | (28,824) | | | (3,140) | | | (20,901) | |
| Borrowings from lines of credit | 35,000 | | | 10,000 | | | — | |
| Repayments of lines of credit | (42,000) | | | — | | | — | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| Issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs | 85,008 | | | 80,659 | | | 39,085 | |
| Debt issuance costs | (82) | | | (46) | | | (224) | |
| Dividends paid | (52,132) | | | (47,905) | | | (43,582) | |
| | | | | |
| Net cash provided (used in) by financing activities | 24,068 | | | 40,268 | | | (10,267) | |
| Net change in cash and cash equivalents | 438 | | | (4,274) | | | 2,283 | |
| Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year | 868 | | | 5,142 | | | 2,859 | |
| Cash and cash equivalents, end of year | $ | 1,306 | | | 868 | | | 5,142 | |
| Cash paid (refunded) during the year for: | | | | | |
| Interest | $ | 17,919 | | | 17,465 | | | 17,512 | |
| Income taxes | $ | — | | | (4,870) | | | (5,483) | |
| Supplemental disclosure of non-cash activities: | | | | | |
| Share-based compensation from investment in subsidiaries | $ | 5,879 | | | 3,778 | | | 4,656 | |
See Accompanying Notes to Schedule I
FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE
Schedule I
SJW Group (Parent Only)
NOTES TO CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)
Financing Activities
See Note 5, “Lines of Credit” and Note 6, “Long-term Debt” for additional information on SJW Group’s revolving credit facility and outstanding debt. The following is a table of the SJW Group’s schedule of principal payments on long-term debt: | | | | | |
| Year | |
| 2025 | $ | — | |
| 2026 | — | |
| 2027 | — | |
| 2028 | — | |
| 2029 | 310,000 | |
| Thereafter | 250,000 | |
Restrictions on Dividends and Other Distributions
SJW Group is a legal entity separate and distinct from its various subsidiaries. As a holding company with no significant operations of its own, SJW Group’s principal sources of funds are dividends or other distributions from its operating subsidiaries, borrowings and the issuance of equity. The rights of SJW Group and, consequently, its creditors and shareholders, to participate in any distribution of assets of any of its subsidiaries are subject to certain prior claims of creditors of such subsidiary.
The abilities of certain of SJW Group’s subsidiaries to transfer funds to SJW Group in the form of cash dividends, loans or advances are subject to certain contractual and regulatory restrictions. SJW Group and its subsidiaries are subject to debt covenants that could limit their respective abilities to pay dividends. For a discussion on these covenants, see Note 6, “Long-term Debt” to SJW Group and Subsidiaries Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. In addition, CTWS and its regulated subsidiaries are prohibited from paying dividends if not in compliance with minimum equity requirements under commitments made by SJW Group as part of the approval granted by the PURA and the Maine Public Utilities Commission in connection with the acquisition of CTWS. As of December 31, 2024, the restricted net assets of SJW Group’s subsidiaries were approximately $494,699 or 36% of consolidated net assets of SJW Group.
SJW Group and Subsidiaries
FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE
Schedule II
VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS AND RESERVES
Years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022
(in thousands)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Description | 2024 | | 2023 | | 2022 |
| Allowance for doubtful accounts: | | | | | |
| Balance, beginning of period | $ | 6,551 | | | 5,753 | | | 4,600 | |
| | | | | |
| (Credited) charged to expense | (1,338) | | | 3,594 | | | 1,195 | |
| (Credited) charged to regulatory asset | (3,960) | | | 1,628 | | | 265 | |
| Accounts written off | (3,874) | | | (5,479) | | | (2,248) | |
| Recoveries of accounts written off | 3,793 | | | 1,055 | | | 1,941 | |
| Balance, end of period | $ | 1,172 | | | 6,551 | | | 5,753 | |
| Reserve for litigation and claims: | | | | | |
| Balance, beginning of period | $ | 1,888 | | | 1,768 | | | 607 | |
| Charged to expense | 206 | | | 971 | | | 1,583 | |
| Revision to accrual, due to settlements | (39) | | | (166) | | | (62) | |
| Payments | (1,440) | | | (685) | | | (360) | |
| Balance, end of period | $ | 615 | | | 1,888 | | | 1,768 | |
Item 9.Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
None.
Item 9A.Controls and Procedures
Evaluation of Disclosure Control and Procedures
SJW Group’s management, with the participation of its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of SJW Group’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, the “Exchange Act”), as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that SJW Group’s disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report have been designed and are functioning effectively to provide reasonable assurance that the information required to be disclosed by SJW Group in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. SJW Group believes that a control system, no matter how well designed and operated, cannot provide absolute assurance that the objectives of the control system are met, and no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within a company have been detected.
Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
SJW Group’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining an adequate internal control structure over financial reporting and for an assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, as such items are defined in Rule 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act.
Management has utilized the criteria established in “Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013)” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission to evaluate the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting.
SJW Group’s management has performed an assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024. Based on this assessment, management has concluded SJW Group’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024 was effective.
Our independent registered public accounting firm, DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP (PCAOB ID No. 34), has issued an auditors’ report on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting, which is included in Item 8 of this report. Changes in Internal Controls
There has been no change in internal control over financial reporting during the fourth fiscal quarter of 2024 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the internal controls over financial reporting of SJW Group.
Item 9B.Other Information
SJW Group intends to post information about the operating and financial performance of SJW Group and its subsidiaries on its website http://www.sjwgroup.com from time to time. The content of SJW Group’s website is not incorporated by reference to or part of this report.
a.There is no information that was required to be disclosed in a report on Form 8-K during the fourth quarter of 2024 but was not reported.
b.In the quarter ended December 31, 2024, none of our directors or officers (as defined in Rule 16a-1(f) of the Exchange Act) adopted or terminated a plan for the purchase or sale of our securities intended to satisfy the affirmative defense conditions of Rule 10b5-1(c) or a non-Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement for the purchase or sale of our securities, within the meaning of Item 408 of Regulation S-K.
Discretionary Awards
On February 25, 2025, the Executive Compensation Committee of SJW Group (the “Company”) approved discretionary cash awards to: (i) Andrew Walters, the Company’s Chief Financial Officer, in the amount of $128,700; (ii) Bruce Hauk, the Company’s Chief Operating Officer, in the amount of $117,000; (iii) Kristen Johnson, the Company’s Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer, in the amount of $91,800; and (iv) Willie Brown, the Company’s Vice President and General Counsel, in the amount of $80,100. Discretionary awards of up to 50% of short-term incentive targets for exceptional performance may be awarded under the Company’s Executive Compensation Policies, and each of the preceding officers was a named executive officer in the Company’s 2024 proxy statement.
Leadership Transition and Executive Promotions
On February 26, 2025, SJW Group’s Board of Directors (the “Board”) appointed Andrew F. Walters, who currently serves as Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of SJW Group as the company’s next Chief Executive Officer, effective July 1, 2025. Eric W. Thornburg will retire as Chief Executive Officer and President of SJW Group effective July 1, 2025. He will remain on the Board as non-executive Chair of the Board.
In addition, on February 26, 2025, the Board made the following other executive appointments:
•Bruce Hauk, Chief Operating Officer of SJW Group, will also serve as President of SJW Group.
•Kristen Johnson, Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer of SJW Group, will also step into the role of President of the Shared Services organization.
The promotions of Hauk and Johnson are also effective July 1, 2025.
Item 9C.Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions that Prevent Inspection
None.
PART III
Item 10.Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
The information required by this item is contained in part under the caption “Executive Officers of the Registrant” in Part I, Item 1, of this report, and in SJW Group’s Proxy Statement for its 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “2025 Proxy Statement”) under the captions “PROPOSAL 1 ELECTION OF DIRECTORS,” and is incorporated herein by reference.
Insider Trading Policy
We have adopted the Insider Trading Policy of SJW Group and its subsidiaries, which governs, among other things, the purchase, sale and/or other disposition of our securities by our directors, officers and employees, as well as by the Company itself, that we believe is reasonably designed to promote compliance with insider trading laws, rules and regulations, and Nasdaq Global Market listing standards. A copy of the Insider Trading Policy is filed as Exhibit 19.1 to this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Item 11.Executive Compensation
The information required by this item is contained in the 2025 Proxy Statement under the captions “Compensation of Directors,” “EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION AND RELATED INFORMATION,” “Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation,” and “COMMITTEE REPORTS” and is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 12.Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
The information required by this item is contained in the 2025 Proxy Statement under the captions “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management” and “Securities Authorized for Issuance under Equity Compensation Plans” and is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 13.Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
The information required by this item is contained in the 2025 Proxy Statement under the caption “CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS” and “Director Independence” and is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 14.Principal Accountant Fees and Services
The information required by this item is contained in the 2025 Proxy Statement under the caption “Principal Independent Accountants’ Fees and Services” and is incorporated herein by reference.
PART IV
Item 15.Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
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| (a)(2) Financial Statement Schedule | |
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All other schedules are omitted as the required information is inapplicable or the information is presented in the consolidated financial statements or related notes.
(a)(3) Exhibits required to be filed by Item 601 of Regulation S-K.
See Exhibit Index located immediately following this Item 15.
The exhibits filed herewith are attached hereto (except as noted) and those indicated on the Exhibit Index, which are not filed herewith, were previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission as indicated.
EXHIBIT INDEX
| | | | | | | | |
| | |
| Exhibit No. | | Description |
| | |
| 3.1 | | |
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| 3.2 | | |
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| 4.1 | | Instruments Defining the Rights of Security Holders, including Indentures: SJW Group hereby agrees to furnish upon request to the Commission a copy of each such instrument defining the rights of holders of unregistered senior and subordinated debt of SJW Group. |
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| 4.2 | | |
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| 4.3 | | |
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| 4.4 | | Indenture dated as of December 1, 2016, by and between California Pollution Control Financing Authority and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A. relating to the Bond. SJW Group agrees to furnish to the Commission upon request a copy of such agreement which it has elected not to file under the provisions of Regulation S-K 601(b)(4)(iii). |
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| 4.5 | | |
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| 10.1 | | |
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| 10.2 | | |
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| 10.3 | | Credit Agreement among SJW Group, San Jose Water Company, SJWTX, Inc., Connecticut Water Service, Inc., JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, dated August 2, 2022. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K filed on August 5, 2022. |
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| 10.4 | | |
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| 10.38 | | |
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| 10.39 | | |
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| 10.40 | | |
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| 10.41 | | |
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| 10.42 | | Trust Agreement for The Connecticut Water Company Welfare Benefits Plan (VEBA) dated January 1, 1989. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.21 to Connecticut Water Service, Inc.’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1989. (2) |
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| 10.43 | | |
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| 10.44 | | |
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| 10.45 | | |
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| 10.63 | | |
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| 10.64 | | |
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| 10.65 | | |
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| 10.66 | | |
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| 10.67 | | First Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated August 2, 2023, between SJW Group, San Jose Water Company, SJWTX, Inc., Connecticut Water Service, Inc., JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent and a lender, and the other lenders party thereto. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K filed on August 2, 2023. |
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| 10.68 | | Second Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated August 2, 2024, between SJW Group, San Jose Water Company, SJWTX, Inc., Connecticut Water Service, Inc., JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent and a lender, and the other lenders party thereto. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K filed on August 2, 2024. |
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| 10.69 | | Equity Distribution Agreement, dated October 29, 2024, by and among SJW Group, BofA Securities, Inc., J.P.Morgan Securities LLC, RBC Capital Markets, LLC and Wells Fargo Securities, LLC. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.1 to Form 8-K dated October 30, 2024. |
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| 19.1 | | |
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| 21.1 | | |
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| 23.1 | | |
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| 31.1 | | |
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| 31.2 | | |
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| 32.1 | | |
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| 32.2 | | |
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| 97.1 | | |
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| 101.INS | | XBRL Instance Document - the instance document does not appear in the interactive data file because its XBRL tags are embedded within the inline XBRL document |
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| 101.SCH | | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document |
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| 101.CAL | | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document |
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| 101.DEF | | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document |
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| 101.LAB | | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document |
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| 101.PRE | | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document |
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| 104 | | Cover Page Interactive Data File - the cover page XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document |
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| (1) Filed currently herewith. |
| (2) Management contract or compensatory plan or agreement. |
| (3) Pursuant to Item 601(b)(2) of Regulation S-K, certain exhibits and schedules have been omitted. The registrant hereby agrees to furnish supplementally a copy of any omitted exhibit or schedule to the SEC upon request. |
| | |
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | SJW Group |
| | | | |
| Date: | February 27, 2025 | | By | /s/ Eric W. Thornburg |
| | | | ERIC W. THORNBURG,
President, Chief Executive Officer and
Chair of the Board
(Principal executive officer) |
| | | |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Date: | February 27, 2025 | | By | /s/ Eric W. Thornburg |
| | | | ERIC W. THORNBURG,
President, Chief Executive Officer and
Chair of the Board
(Principal executive officer) |
|
| | | | |
| Date: | February 27, 2025 | | By | /s/ Andrew F. Walters |
| | | | ANDREW F. WALTERS,
Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
(Principal financial officer) |
|
| | | | |
| Date: | February 27, 2025 | | By | /s/ Ann P. Kelly |
| | | | ANN P. KELLY, Chief Accounting Officer (Principal accounting officer) |
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| Date: | February 27, 2025 | | By | /s/ Carl Guardino |
| | | | CARL GUARDINO,
Member, Board of Directors |
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| | | | |
| Date: | February 27, 2025 | | By | /s/ Mary Ann Hanley |
| | | | MARY ANN HANLEY,
Member, Board of Directors |
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| | | | |
| Date: | February 27, 2025 | | By | /s/ Heather Hunt |
| | | | HEATHER HUNT,
Member, Board of Directors |
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| | | | |
| Date: | February 27, 2025 | | By | /s/ Rebecca A. Klein |
| | | | REBECCA A. KLEIN,
Member, Board of Directors |
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| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Date: | February 27, 2025 | | By | /s/ Denise L. Kruger |
| | | | DENISE L. KRUGER, Member, Board of Directors |
|
| | | | |
| Date: | February 27, 2025 | | By | /s/ Gregory P. Landis |
| | | | GREGORY P. LANDIS,
Member, Board of Directors |
|
| | | | |
| Date: | February 27, 2025 | | By | /s/ Daniel B. More |
| | | | DANIEL B. MORE,
Member, Board of Directors |
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| | | | |
| Date: | February 27, 2025 | | By | /s/ Carol P. Wallace |
| | | | CAROL P. WALLACE,
Member, Board of Directors |
|
