Detailed Narrative
Deleveraging and Growth Strategy
NGL Energy Partners is executing a multiyear strategy focused on deleveraging the balance sheet through high-return water growth projects. The company expects the delevering trend to continue throughout the fiscal year, even with growth capital spend heavily weighted to the first half. This strategy positions the partnership to address the Class D preferreds later this fiscal year.
LEX II Extension Project
The LEX II Extension project is expanding the LEX Pipeline System to 81 miles, capable of transporting approximately 560,000 barrels per day of produced water from Eddy and Lea Counties, New Mexico, to Andrews County, Texas. This expansion is underwritten by a new long-term volume commitment contract, including increased volume commitments and an additional 4 township committed area in Eddy County. The project is expected to be in service by the end of this calendar year.
Class D Preferreds Management
Management plans to redeem about 50% of the remaining Class D preferreds this fiscal year, leaving the balance outstanding. This approach prioritizes attractive investment opportunities with rates of return exceeding the cost of the Class D preferreds. The company is preparing for the possibility of these securities being put to them no sooner than January 1, 2028, noting they would be easily financed if exercised.
Future Growth and Capital Allocation
Looking ahead, NGL is positioning itself to potentially build another large diameter water pipeline, pursue M&A opportunities, and reinstate the common unit distribution. The company believes that reducing about half of the Class D preferreds this fiscal year makes distribution reinstatement a possibility in 2027, depending on leverage and capital allocation to high-EBITDA opportunities.
Beneficial Reuse and Mineral Extraction Opportunities
The company is actively engaged in discussions and moving forward with contracts for both beneficial reuse of produced water and mineral extraction (lithium and iodine). They anticipate making announcements as these opportunities firm up. Produced water is increasingly seen as a solution for hyperscalers and data centers facing groundwater development pushback in West Texas.
TPDES Permit Update
NGL expects to receive its TPDES permit through TCEQ this month, after a three-year application process. Management believes the permit will be economic, which is a critical first step for several exciting scoped projects related to water treatment and discharge. They highlight a competitive advantage in being first movers in this area.