SJW GROUP

Previous wording

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, 2023 compared to the year ended December 31, 2022. The comparative results for the year ended December 31, 2022 with for the year ended December 31, 2021 generally have not been included in this Form 10-K but 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, 2022.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

SJWC provides non-tariffed services, such as water system operations, maintenance agreements and antenna site leases under agreements with municipalities and other utilities. TWC provides non-tariffed wholesale water service to adjacent utilities and non-tariffed wastewater services. CTWS provides non-tariffed services, such as water system operations and maintenance under agreements with municipalities and other utilities. Additionally, CTWS offers 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.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

SJW Group has identified accounting policies delineated below as the policies 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 policies are as follows:

Current wording

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:

Previous wording

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, offset by applicable drought surcharges. 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. No disallowances were recognized during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021.

Current wording

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 ende…

Excerpt shortened here; the source contains the full paragraph.

Previous wording

Balancing and memorandum accounts are 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.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

Balancing accounts are currently being maintained for the following items: purchased water, purchased power, groundwater extraction charges, pensions, 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 balancing account is intended to capture the difference between actual pension 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.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

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 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. Applicable drought surcharges collected are used to offset the revenue losses tracked in the WCMA.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

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 sur-credits 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.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

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, 2023. The qualitative assessment found no indicators of impairment and therefore did not perform the quantitative impairment test. No impairments occurred during the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 or 2021.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

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 and pension costs 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.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

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. Further, to mitigate risks from variations in revenues from changes in customer usage, the Connecticut State Legislature has approved a WRA to provide for recovery of the company’s authorized revenues.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

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 seeks to implement its first SIC. The SIC will allow 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 recently adopted in Texas that 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.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

The water utility business is capital-intensive. In 2023 and 2022, company-funded capital improvements were $271,772 and $218,784, respectively, for additions to, or replacements of, property, plant and equipment for our Water Utility Services. We plan to spend approximately $332,000 in 2024 and $1,621,000 over 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 2023 activities, we will have access to the external funding sources necessary to implement our ongoing capital investment programs in the future.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

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 2023, production expenses accounted for 49% of our total operating expenses. Price increases associated with these production inputs would adversely impact our results of operations until rate relief is granted.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

Customer growth in our 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. During 2023, we had cash outflows of $7,537 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.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

Fluctuations in customer demand for water could be due to seasonality, restrictions of use, weather or lifestyle choices, all of which could affect Water Utility Services’ results of operations.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

•TWC residential and business usage decreased 8.8%.

Current wording

•TWC residential and business usage decreased 13.0%.

Previous wording

For the year ended December 31, 2023, SJWC’s residential and business usage was lower by 15.0% and 3.2%, respectively, than the amount authorized in our 2022-2024 general rate case. SJWC’s service area is currently under voluntary 15% reduction of water consumption. To address the difference between conservation usage and authorized usage in the rate case, the CPUC has approved the activation of the WCMA which tracks the divergence between authorized versus actual consumption in a balancing account for future recovery.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

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 2024. 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 believes that they will be able to meet customer demand for 2024 with their existing water supply which consists of groundwater from wells, surface water in reservoirs and purchased water treated by neighboring water utilities. TWC believes that it will be able to meet customer demand for 2024 with their water supply which consists of groundwater from wells and purchased treated and raw water from the GBRA.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

SJW Group’s consolidated net income for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $84,987, compared to $73,828 for the same period in 2022. This represents an increase of $11,159 or 15%, from 2022. The increase in net income was primarily driven by rate filings in California and Maine, lower maintenance costs due in part to prior year incurred costs related to the Order of Instituting Investigation settlement agreement, and a decrease in income taxes due to the partial release of an uncertain tax position reserve, partially offset by higher water production expenses, higher debt interest expenses, increased allowances for credit losses, higher depreciation and amortization expense related to new utility plant additions, and a gain on sale of nonutility properties of $6,197 in 2022 that did not recur in 2023.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

The change in consolidated operating revenues was due to the following factors:

Current wording

The change in consolidated operating revenue was due to the following factors:

Previous wording

The revenue increase consists of $49,586 from Water Utility Services and $79 from Real Estate Services.

Current wording

The revenue increase consists of $49,045 from Water Utility Services and $620 from Other Services.

Previous wording

The revenue increase for Water Utility Services is primarily due to an increase in authorized rates in California and Maine which resulted in $46,592 of additional revenue, an increase of $3,780 from new customers, balancing and memorandum accounts increases were primarily due to WCMA for $1,994 and $1,187 for all other balancing and memorandum accounts, and increases in other regulatory mechanisms by $1,875, partially offset by decreases of $6,624 due to lower usage.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

The following tables present operating revenues and number of customers by customer group of Water Utility Services:

Current wording

The following tables present operating revenues and the number of customers by customer group of Water Utility Services:

Previous wording

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. In 2022, SJWC’s general rate case decision approved the use of the Full Cost Balancing Account which 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.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

CWC’s water sources vary among the individual systems, but overall, approximately 80% of the total dependable yield comes from surface water supplies and 20% from wells. In addition, CWC has water supply agreements to supplement its water supply with the South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority and The Metropolitan District that expire in 2058 and 2053, respectively.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

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 7,650 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 WTPUA 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.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

In August 2023, SJWTX Holdings Inc.’s unregulated subsidiary, TWR acquired eight wells and the water rights of KTR. 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.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

The following table presents the sources of water supply for water utility services:

Current wording

The following table presents the sources of water supply:

Previous wording

Water production in 2023 for Water Utility Services decreased 2.0 billion gallons from 2022. The changes are primarily attributable to changes in consumption by customers driven primarily by weather conditions in California, Maine and Texas.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

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 2024, 2023 and 2022 was $6.411 million, $5.644 million and $4.953 million per billion gallons, respectively. The contractual cost of the groundwater extraction charge for water pumped from the ground basin was $6.058 million, $5.290 million and $4.600 million per billion gallons for Valley Water’s fiscal years 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. SJWC’s unaccounted-for water for 2023 and 2022 approximated 8.4% and 8.9%, respectively, as a percentage of production. The unaccounted-for water estimate is based on the results of past experience and the impact of flows through the system, partially offset by SJWC’s main replacements and water loss reduction programs.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

CWC has an agreement with the South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority (“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 fifty 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, 2023. 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 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, 2023.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

Water production expenses increased $31,767 in higher per unit costs paid for purchased water, groundwater extraction, energy price charges and other production expenses and increased $12,869 in water production balancing and memorandum accounts for the Full Cost Balancing Account, offset by decreases of $11,510 as a result of increased availability of California surface water in 2023 compared to 2022 and $9,716 due to lower customer usage.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

Property taxes and other non-income taxes for 2023 increased $1,903 from 2022. The increase was primarily the result of increased property taxes due to utility plant additions, and an increase in payroll taxes due to increases in wages.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

Depreciation and amortization expense increased $1,451 in 2023. The increases were primarily due to increases in depreciation related to new utility plant additions; partially offset by a $2,400 one-time impact related to amortization on certain Cupertino concession assets in 2022.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

The change in other (expense) income in 2023 compared to 2022 was primarily due to an increase in interest expense due to an increase in long-term debt balances, higher interest rates on lines of credit borrowings and an increase in pension non-service cost, offset by the changes in the Rabbi Trust and life insurance policy values and a true-up on prior real estate sale transactions.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

SJW Group’s consolidated weighted-average cost of long-term debt, including the amortization of debt issuance costs, was 3.97% and 4.0% for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022. Cost of borrowing on the lines of credit averaged 6.29% and 3.41% for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

Income tax expense for 2023 was $5,956, compared to $8,496 in 2022. The effective consolidated income tax rate was 7% for 2023 and 10% for 2022. The decrease in income tax expense and the effective income tax rate was primarily due to the partial release of an uncertain tax position reserve.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

Water Utility Services’ business derives the majority of its revenue directly from residential and business customers. Water Utility Services bills the majority of its customers on a bi-monthly basis. Management believes that the collection rate for its accounts receivables will increase as service disconnections gradually return to normal operations following the expiration of remaining state orders to suspend water service disconnections in 2022 that were instituted as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. On December 28, 2023, SJWC submitted the application to receive $10,237 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 anticipate the funds to be received in the first quarter of 2024 after the State of California Water and Wastewater Arrearages Payment Program completes the review of this application.

Current wording

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.

Previous wording

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 2023, SJW Group and its subsidiaries obtained $70,000 in funds from new long-term debt and $80,659 in funds from equity issuances. From these amounts, SJW Group funded its 2023 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 $47,905 during the year ended December 31, 2023.

Current wording

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.