01—Abstract
Summary
Summary of the 10-K filed February 24, 2021. Cited figures are marked; the original filing is the authoritative source.
American Water Works Company, Inc. (AWK) presented its 2020 annual report, highlighting its position as the largest publicly traded water and wastewater utility in the United States, serving over 15 million people across 46 states.
The company's primary operations are within its Regulated Businesses segment, which accounted for 86% of total operating revenues in 2020. This segment focuses on providing water and wastewater services across more than 1,700 communities in 16 states, operating under stringent regulations from Public Utility Commissions (PUCs). AWK detailed significant capital investment plans, projecting $22 billion to $25 billiona over the next decade for infrastructure improvements, including pipe replacement and facility upgrades.
The company also operates Market-Based Businesses, contributing 14%b of revenues, which provide services like homeowner warranties and military installation utilities, operating outside PUC economic regulation. The report also noted the pending sale of its New York subsidiary and discussed various regulatory and environmental compliance efforts, including investments in resiliency and water quality monitoring.
02—Key points
Key Highlights
- American Water is the largest publicly traded water and wastewater utility in the US, serving over 15 million people in 46 states.
- The Regulated Businesses segment represents the core of the company's operations, accounting for 86% of total operating revenues in 2020.
- The company plans significant capital investments of $22-$25 billion over the next 10 years, primarily for infrastructure improvements and replacements.
- Market-Based Businesses contribute 14% of revenues, offering services like homeowner warranties and military installation utilities.
- AWK is undertaking the sale of its New York subsidiary to Liberty Utilities Co. for approximately $608 million, subject to regulatory approvals.
- The company emphasizes environmental stewardship, water efficiency, and resiliency as key strategic priorities.
- Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, AWK reported increased diluted earnings per share in 2020 compared to 2019, driven by infrastructure investments and regulatory approvals.
03—One dollar
04—Financials
Financial Highlights
Figures from 10-KFY2020filed February 24, 2021Financial Statements
FY2020 against FY2019
| Line item | FY2020FY2019 | Change |
|---|---|---|
| Revenue | $3.74B$3.59B | +4.3% |
| Operating Expenses | $2.53B$2.40B | +5.6% |
| Operating Income | $1.25B$1.21B | +2.8% |
| Net Income | $709.00M$621.00M | +14.2% |
| EPS (Basic) | $3.91$3.44 | +13.7% |
| EPS (Diluted) | $3.91$3.43 | +14.0% |
| Shares Outstanding (Basic) | 181.00M181.00M | 0.0% |
| Shares Outstanding (Diluted) | 182.00M181.00M | +0.6% |
05—Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is American Water Works Company's primary business and how is it structured?
American Water Works Company, Inc. (AWK) operates primarily through its Regulated Businesses segment, which provides water and wastewater services to over 15 million people in 46 states. This segment accounts for the vast majority of the company's revenue. Additionally, AWK operates Market-Based Businesses that offer complementary services outside of direct PUC economic regulation.
What are the company's significant capital investment plans?
AWK has ambitious capital investment plans, projecting between $22 billion and $25 billion over the next decade (2021-2030). This investment is primarily directed towards improving and replacing aging water and wastewater infrastructure, enhancing treatment facilities, and supporting growth through acquisitions.
How did the COVID-19 pandemic impact American Water Works Company's operations and financials?
The company experienced financial impacts from COVID-19, including increased uncollectible accounts, higher debt costs, and some incremental O&M expenses, partially offset by regulatory approvals for deferred accounting and cost recovery mechanisms in many jurisdictions. While revenues from residential customers increased due to work-from-home trends, commercial and industrial customer demand decreased. AWK also took steps to protect its employees and ensure business continuity.
What is the status of the sale of the New York subsidiary?
American Water is in the process of selling its New York subsidiary to Liberty Utilities Co. for approximately $608 million. The transaction is subject to various closing conditions, including regulatory approvals, and its completion timeline could be impacted by ongoing studies by the New York State Department of Public Service.
06—Continue