Detailed Narrative
Strategic Transformation to Pure-Play Water Company
NGL Energy Partners is actively transforming into a pure-play water company, a strategy highlighted by the sale of its wholesale propane and rack marketing businesses in April. This divestiture significantly reduced volatility in reported EBITDA and working capital. The Liquids segment will continue to be rightsized through the monetization of noncore assets, aligning the partnership's focus with its high-growth Water Solutions segment.
Capital Structure Simplification and Debt Reduction
The company made meaningful progress on its capital structure priorities, completing a $950 million refinancing transaction that extended maturities. This provided cash to reduce Class D preferred units, with approximately 285,000 units redeemed during FY26, representing 47% of the original amount. This action significantly lowered the highest cost of capital, and the company plans to continue reducing Class Ds using free cash flow and noncore asset sales.
Record Performance in Water Solutions Segment
The Water Solutions segment delivered a record year, with adjusted EBITDA reaching approximately $603 million for the full fiscal year and $153 million in Q4. Produced water volumes increased 10% year-over-year to 3 million barrels per day in Q4, with total volumes paid on at 3.1 million barrels per day. The segment's operating expenses per barrel improved to $0.22 in Q4, reflecting efficiency gains and system optimization.
LEX II System Expansion and Future Demand
NGL announced a further expansion of its LEX II system, increasing capacity by 165,000 barrels per day to approximately 560,000 barrels per day, with potential for expansion up to 650,000 barrels per day. This expansion is underwritten by a long-term volume commitment contract, including increased volume commitments and an additional 4 township committed area in Eddy County. Management noted incredible demand for additional capacity in the basin, driven by accelerated development and efficiencies.
Crude Oil Logistics Activity Uptick
The Crude Oil Logistics segment, particularly the Grand Mesa Pipeline, is experiencing an uptick in activity in the DJ Basin. This is attributed to smaller, private equity-backed players consolidating acreage and implementing more cohesive development plans. Management expects this increased activity to carry into fiscal 2027 and the subsequent fiscal years, driving more barrels through the pipeline.
Advancements in Next-Gen Water Opportunities
NGL is making progress on beneficial reuse and water desalination projects. The company anticipates receiving a draft permit from TCEQ for these initiatives within weeks. Additionally, significant progress is being made on an energy campus project that would integrate nuclear power, a data center, and large-scale desalination, showcasing the company's commitment to future-oriented water solutions.