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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 8-K
Current Report Pursuant to Section 13
or 15(d) of
The Securities Exchange Act of 1934
Date of Report (date of earliest event
reported): February 25, 2026
CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE GROUP
(Exact name of Registrant as Specified in its
Charter)
Delaware
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation) |
1-13883
(Commission file number) |
77-0448994
(I.R.S. Employer Identification Number) |
1720 North First Street San Jose, California
(Address of principal executive offices) |
95112
(Zip Code) |
(408) 367-8200
(Registrant’s telephone number, including
area code)
N/A
(Former name or former address, if changed
since last report)
Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing
is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions:
| ¨ |
Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425) |
| |
|
| ¨ |
Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12) |
| |
|
| ¨ |
Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act
(17 CFR 240.14d-2(b)) |
| |
|
| ¨ |
Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act
(17 CFR 240.13e-4(c)) |
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of
the Act:
| Title of each class |
|
Trading Symbol(s) |
|
Name of each exchange on which registered |
| Common Shares, par value $0.01 |
|
CWT |
|
New York Stock Exchange |
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging
growth company as defined by Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (§230.405 of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (§240.12b-2 of this chapter).
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. ¨
| Item 2.02. |
Results of Operations and Financial Condition |
On February 25, 2026, California Water Service
Group (the “Company”) issued a press release (a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit 99.1 and incorporated herein
by reference) announcing its financial results for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2025.
As announced, the Company will host a conference
call on Thursday, February 26, 2026 at 11:00 am EDT to discuss financial results and management’s business outlook. The financial
results announcement contains information about how to access the conference call and webcast. A slide presentation, which includes supplemental
information relating to the Company, will be used by management during the conference call. A copy of the slide presentation is attached
hereto as Exhibit 99.2 and is incorporated by reference herein. The Exhibits will be posted on the Company’s website at www.calwatergroup.com
under the “Investor Relations” tab.
The information furnished pursuant to Item 2.02
of this Current Report shall not be deemed “filed” for the purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
as amended (the “Exchange Act”), or incorporated by reference in any filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended,
or the Exchange Act, except as expressly set forth by specific reference in such a filing.
| Item 7.01. |
Regulation FD Disclosure |
On February 25, 2026, the Company issued a press
release (a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit 99.3 and incorporated herein by reference) announcing that has entered into a
definitive agreement to purchase Nexus Water Group’s Nevada and Oregon subsidiaries.
The information furnished pursuant to Item 7.01
of this Current Report shall not be deemed “filed” for the purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
as amended (the “Exchange Act”), or incorporated by reference in any filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended,
or the Exchange Act, except as expressly set forth by specific reference in such a filing.
On February 25, 2026, the Company announced that it has entered into
a definitive agreement to purchase Nexus Water Group’s Nevada and Oregon subsidiaries. The purchase price for the transaction is
approximately $218 million, subject to certain closing adjustments. The Company will fund the acquisition with working capital and existing
debt and equity facilities. The Company expects to consummate the transaction by the end of 2026, subject to customary closing conditions
and regulatory approvals, including approval from the applicable public utility commissions. The transaction is expected to add approximately
36,000 equivalent residential connections across water and wastewater systems in Nevada and Oregon and increase consolidated rate base
by approximately $109 million.
Forward-Looking
Statements
This Current Report on Form 8-K contains forward-looking
statements within the meaning established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (PSLRA). The forward-looking statements
are intended to qualify under provisions of the federal securities laws for "safe harbor" treatment established by the PSLRA.
Forward-looking statements in this Current Report on Form 8-K are based on currently available information, expectations, estimates, assumptions
and projections, and our management's beliefs, assumptions, judgments and expectations about us, the water utility industry and general
economic conditions. These statements are not statements of historical fact. When used in our documents, statements that are not historical
in nature, including words like will, would, expects, intends, plans, believes, may, could, estimates, assumes, anticipates, projects,
progress, predicts, hopes, targets, forecasts, should, seeks or variations of these words or similar expressions are intended to identify
forward-looking statements. Examples of forward-looking statements in this Current Report on Form 8-K include, but are not limited to,
statements describing the anticipated closing and timing of the Company’s acquisition of Nexus Water Group’s Nevada and Oregon
subsidiaries and expected benefits resulting from the acquisition and statements regarding the anticipated receipt and timing of regulatory
approvals required to complete the transaction, including approvals from applicable public utility commissions. Such approvals may be
subject to conditions, requirements, or modifications that could delay, restrict, or prevent the consummation of the transaction or reduce
the anticipated benefits thereof. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. They are based on numerous assumptions
that we believe are reasonable, but they are open to a wide range of uncertainties and business risks. Consequently, actual results or
outcomes may vary materially from what is contained in a forward-looking statement. Factors that may cause actual results or outcomes
to be different than those expected or anticipated include, but are not limited to, the Company’s ability complete the acquisition
of Nexus Water Group’s Nevada and Oregon subsidiaries in line with management’s expectations, the Company’s ability
to integrate and operate the acquired operations in an effective and accretive manner and those described under the section entitled “Risk
Factors” and elsewhere in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, our subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and our other
Securities and Exchange Commission filings. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, investors are cautioned not to place
undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this Current Report on Form 8-K. We are not under any
obligation, and we expressly disclaim any obligation to update or alter any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information,
future events or otherwise.
| Item 9.01. |
Financial Statements and Exhibits. |
We hereby furnish the following exhibits, which
shall not be deemed “filed” for the purposes of Section 18 of the Exchange Act, with this report:
| Exhibit No. |
|
Description |
| 99.1 |
|
Press Release issued February 25, 2026 regarding financial results |
| 99.2 |
|
Slide presentation relating to conference call |
| 99.3 |
|
Press Release issued February 25, 2026 re acquisition of Nevada and Oregon subsidiaries of Nexus Water Group |
| 104 |
|
Cover Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the Inline XBRL document) |
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.
| |
CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE GROUP |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| Date: February 25, 2026 |
By: |
/s/ James P. Lynch |
| |
Name: |
James P. Lynch |
| |
Title: |
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer |
Exhibit 99.1

California Water Service Group Reports Solid
Q4 and YE 2025 Results
SAN JOSE, Calif., February 25, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE)
-- California Water Service Group (Group or Company, NYSE: CWT), a leading publicly traded water utility serving California, Hawaii,
New Mexico, Washington, and Texas, today reported solid Q4 and year-end 2025 results and provided an update on the Proposed Decision
in its 2024 California General Rate Case (2024 CA GRC).
Fourth Quarter and Year-End 2025 Results in Line with
Expectations; Impacted by Wet Q4 Weather
Q4 Financial Results
Q4 2025 net income decreased $8.2 million, or 42%, to $11.5 million,
or $0.19 per diluted share, compared to net income of $19.7 million, or $0.33 per diluted share in Q4 2024. Q4 2025 revenue decreased
$2.2 million, or less than 1.0%, to $220.0 million, compared to revenue of $222.2 million in Q4 2024.
| · | Rate
changes and changes in the Monterey-Style Water Revenue Adjustment Mechanism (M-WRAM) added
$12.1 million and $4.4 million of revenue, respectively. |
| · | Declining
customer consumption decreased revenue by $14.6 million and accrued and unbilled revenue
decreased $5.7 million, due to extremely wet December weather in California. |
| · | Q4
2025 operating expenses increased $4.5 million, or 2.3%, to $194.4 million, compared to operating
expenses of $189.9 million in Q4 2024. |
| · | Water
production costs decreased by $2.7 million, primarily due to lower consumption, offset by
increases in wholesale water rates. |
| · | Other
operations expenses increased $3.8 million, primarily due to an increase in conservation
expenses. |
| · | Depreciation
and amortization increased $3.2 million due to new capital assets placed in service. |
| · | Operating
expense increases were partially offset by a decrease in operating income tax expense of
$3.6 million, primarily due to lower pre-tax earnings and a decrease in the effective tax
rate. |
Full Year 2025 Financial Results
| · | Full
year 2025 net income decreased $62.6 million, or 32.8%, to $128.2 million, or $2.15 per diluted
share, compared to net income of $190.8 million, or $3.25 per diluted share in full year
2024. Full year 2025 net income increased $1.4 million, and diluted earnings per share decreased
$0.01, when 2024 results are presented on a non-GAAP basis to remove the impact of the delayed
2021 California GRC as described below. |
| · | Full
year 2025 operating revenue decreased $36.7 million, or 3.5%, to $1.0 billion, compared to
full year 2024 revenue of $1.04 billion. Compared to full year 2024 non-GAAP revenue, full
year 2025 revenue increased $50.7 million, or 5.4%. |
| ◦ | Rate changes added $69.6 million in revenue, offset by a decrease
in M-WRAM revenue of $9.0 million. M-WRAM revenue in 2024 includes $17.4 million of interim
rate relief attributable to 2023. |
| ◦ | Customer consumption decreased $12.7 million. |
| ◦ | Regulatory approval of amounts in the
Palos Verdes Pipeline Memorandum Account added $3.8 million in 2025 revenue. |
| ◦ | Revenue increases were offset by $88.6
million in Interim Rates Memorandum Account (IRMA) revenue recorded in 2024, which included
$67.6 million of interim rate relief attributable to 2023. |
| · | Full
year 2025 operating expenses increased $18.0 million, or 2.2%, to $829.8 million, compared
to full year operating expenses of $811.8 million in 2024. |
| ◦ | Water production costs increased by $11.5 million, primarily due to
increases in wholesale water rates, partially offset by a decrease in customer consumption. |
| ◦ | Other operations expenses increased
$11.6 million, primarily due to an increase in labor costs and bad debt expenses. The change
in bad debt expense was primarily due to the application of California state arrearage funds
to eligible past-due and written-off accounts in 2024. No similar funding was available in
2025. |
| ◦ | Depreciation and
amortization increased $12.5 million due to new capital assets placed in service. |
| ◦ | Operating expense increases were offset
by a $24.7 million decrease in operating income tax expense due to lower pre-tax earnings
in 2025 compared to 2024, as a result of recording the 2021 California GRC decision in March
2024. |
Non-GAAP Financial Information
As a result of the delayed 2021 California GRC decision,
interim rate relief related to 2023--including revenue of $87.5 million and net income of $64.0 million, or $1.09 per diluted share--was
recorded and finalized in 2024 after approval by the CPUC. Non-GAAP financial measures adjust for the impact of 2023 interim rate relief
on 2024 results. For more information on these non-GAAP financial measures, see the reconciliation of results and related explanations
under "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" below.
"Given that this is the third year of our California
rate case cycle and that we had a much wetter than normal December, these results are in line with our expectations," said Chairman
& Chief Executive Officer Martin A. Kropelnicki. "We also achieved a number of key milestones in 2025."
Among those milestones, the Company:
| · | Invested
a record $517.0 million in water system infrastructure in 2025, a 9.8% increase over water
system infrastructure investments in 2024. |
| · | Completed
rate cases in Hawaii and Washington, adding $5.1 million in authorized revenue. |
| · | Announced
the sale and issuance of $170.0 million of Notes by Group and $200.0 million of Bonds by
Cal Water in private placement transactions. |
| · | Announced
the intent to acquire the remaining membership interests of BVRT Utility Holding Company
LLC and become the sole owner of its seven subsidiary water and wastewater utilities in the
south Austin-San Antonio corridor. |
| · | Entered
into an agreement to own and operate wastewater and recycled water systems serving a master-planned,
mixed-use development in San Bernardino County, Calif., with 500 customer connections initially
and up to 15,000 at full buildout. |
| · | Increased
its annual dividend by 10.71%, or $0.12, to $1.24 per common share, including a onetime special
dividend of $0.04 per common share. This marked the Company's 58th consecutive annual dividend,
bringing its five-year compound annual dividend growth rate to 7.7%. |
"I am extremely pleased with our accomplishments in
2025. I'm also cautiously optimistic given where we are in the process that we should receive a Proposed Decision on our 2024 California
General Rate Case in a matter of days or weeks, not months," Kropelnicki said.
The Company believes that if the Proposed Decision were
issued by March 15, there should be sufficient time for the Commission to consider the matter and adopt a final decision at its meeting
on April 9.
For additional details, please see the Form 10-K which
will be available at https:// www.calwatergroup.com/investors/financials-filings-reports/sec-filings, or listen to the earnings teleconference
or teleconference replay.
Quarterly Earnings Teleconference
The quarterly teleconference will take place on February
26, 2026, at 8 a.m. PT/11 a.m. ET. To join, dial 1-800-715-9871 or 1-646-307-1963 and key in ID# 2201083, or access the live audio webcast
at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/gc36wzai. A replay of the call will be available from 2:00 p.m. ET on Thursday, February 26, 2026,
through April 27, 2026, at 1-800-770-2030 or 1-609-800-9909 and key in ID# 2201083, or by accessing the webcast above. The call will
be hosted by Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Martin A. Kropelnicki, Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and
Treasurer James P. Lynch, Vice President, Rates and Regulatory Affairs Officer Greg A. Milleman, and Shilen M. Patel, Chief Business
Development Officer and Vice President, TWSC, Inc. Prior to the call, Group will furnish a slide presentation on its website.
About California Water Service Group
Group is the parent company of regulated utilities California
Water Service, Hawaii Water Service, New Mexico Water Service, and Washington Water Service, as well as Texas Water Service, a utility
holding company. Together, these companies provide regulated and non-regulated water and wastewater service to more than 2.1 million
people in California, Hawaii, New Mexico, Washington and Texas. Group's common stock trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the
symbol "CWT." Additional information is available online at www.calwatergroup.com.
This news release contains forward-looking statements within
the meaning established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 ("PSLRA"). The forward-looking statements
are intended to qualify under provisions of the federal securities laws for "safe harbor" treatment established by the
PSLRA. Forward-looking statements in this news release are based on currently available information, expectations, estimates,
assumptions and projections and our management's beliefs, assumptions, judgments and expectations about us, the water utility
industry and general economic conditions. These statements are not statements of historical fact. When used in our documents,
statements that are not historical in nature, including words like will, would, expects, intends, plans, believes, may, could,
estimates, assumes, anticipates, projects, progress, predicts, hopes, targets, forecasts, should, seeks or variations of these words
or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Examples of forward-looking statements in this news
release include, but are not limited to, statements describing Group's expected financial performance, and expectations regarding
Group's plans and proposals pursuant to and expected timing and progress of the 2024 CA GRC. Forward-looking statements are not
guarantees of future performance. They are based on numerous assumptions that we believe are reasonable, but they are open to a wide
range of uncertainties and business risks. Consequently, actual results or outcomes may vary materially from what is contained in a
forward-looking statement. Factors that may cause actual results or outcomes to be different than those expected or anticipated
include, but are not limited to: the outcome and timeliness of regulatory commissions' actions concerning rate relief and other
matters, including with respect to the 2024 CA GRC and GRCs of our other subsidiaries; the impact of opposition to rate increases;
our ability to recover costs; federal governmental and state regulatory commissions' decisions, including decisions on proper
disposition of property; changes in state regulatory commissions' policies and procedures; changes in California State Water
Resources Control Board water quality standards; changes in environmental compliance and water quality requirements, such as the
United States Environmental Protection Agency's finalization of a National Primary Drinking Water Regulation establishing legally
enforceable maximum contaminant levels (MCL) for PFAS in drinking water in 2024 as well as legal challenges to such MCLs; the impact
of weather, climate change, natural disasters, including wildfires and landslides and actual or threatened public health
emergencies, including disease outbreaks, on our operations, water quality, water availability, water sales and operating results
and the adequacy of our emergency preparedness; electric power interruptions, especially as a result of public safety power shutoff
programs; availability of water supplies; our ability to invest or apply the proceeds from the issuance of common stock in an
accretive manner; consequences of eminent domain actions relating to our water systems; increased risk of inverse condemnation
losses as a result of the impact of weather, climate change and natural disasters, including wildfires and landslides; shifts in
population, including housing and customer growth; issues with the implementation, maintenance or security of our information
technology systems; physical and cyber security risks and threats and the adequacy of our efforts to mitigate such risks and
threats; the ability of our enterprise risk management processes to identify or address risks adequately; labor relations matters as
we negotiate with the unions; changes in customer water use patterns and the effects of conservation, including as a result of
drought conditions; our ability to complete, in a timely manner or at all, successfully integrate and achieve anticipated benefits
from announced acquisitions; restrictive covenants in or changes to the credit ratings on our current or future debt that could
increase our financing costs or affect our ability to borrow, make payments on debt or pay dividends; risks associated with
expanding our business and operations, including into other geographic areas; the impact of stagnating or worsening business and
economic conditions, including inflationary pressures, general economic slowdown or a recession, changes in tariff policy, the
interest rate environment, changes in monetary policy, adverse capital markets activity or macroeconomic conditions as a result of
geopolitical conflicts and the prospect of shutdowns of the U.S. federal government; the impact of market conditions and volatility
on unrealized gains or losses on our non-qualified benefit plan investments and our operating results; the impact of weather and
timing of meter reads on our accrued and unbilled revenue; the impact of evolving legal and regulatory requirements, including
emerging sustainability requirements; the impact of the evolving U.S. political environment and changes effected, proposed, or
threatened by the U.S. federal government that has led to, in some cases, legal challenges and uncertainty around the funding,
functioning and policy priorities of U.S. federal regulatory agencies and the status of current and future regulations; and other
risks and unforeseen events described in our Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") filings. In light of these risks,
uncertainties and assumptions, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only
as of the date of this news release. When considering forward-looking statements, you should keep in mind the cautionary statements
included in this paragraph, as well as the Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly 10-Q and other reports filed from time-to-time with
the SEC. We are not under any obligation and we expressly disclaim any obligation to update or alter any forward-looking statements,
whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. A credit rating is not a recommendation to buy, sell or hold any
securities, may be changed at any time by the applicable ratings agency and should be evaluated independently of any other
information.
Contacts:
James P. Lynch (408) 367-8200 (analysts)
Shannon Dean (408) 367-8243 (media)
CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE GROUP
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
Unaudited
| (In thousands, except per share data) | |
December 31,
2025 | | |
December 31,
2024 | |
| ASSETS | |
| | | |
| | |
| Utility plant: | |
| | | |
| | |
| Utility plant | |
$ | 5,909,242 | | |
$ | 5,400,489 | |
| Less accumulated depreciation and amortization | |
| (1,329,652 | ) | |
| (1,241,785 | ) |
| Net utility plant | |
| 4,579,590 | | |
| 4,158,704 | |
| Current assets: | |
| | | |
| | |
| Cash and cash equivalents | |
| 51,820 | | |
| 50,121 | |
| Restricted cash | |
| 45,553 | | |
| 45,566 | |
| Receivables: | |
| | | |
| | |
| Customers, net | |
| 56,322 | | |
| 58,585 | |
| Regulatory balancing accounts | |
| 72,511 | | |
| 55,917 | |
| Other, net | |
| 49,004 | | |
| 33,976 | |
| Accrued and unbilled revenue, net | |
| 39,674 | | |
| 39,718 | |
| Materials and supplies | |
| 19,784 | | |
| 20,511 | |
| Taxes, prepaid expenses, and other assets | |
| 19,760 | | |
| 19,742 | |
| Total current assets | |
| 354,428 | | |
| 324,136 | |
| Other assets: | |
| | | |
| | |
| Regulatory assets | |
| 339,865 | | |
| 357,406 | |
| Goodwill | |
| 37,063 | | |
| 37,063 | |
| Other assets | |
| 360,219 | | |
| 302,974 | |
| Total other assets | |
| 737,147 | | |
| 697,443 | |
| TOTAL ASSETS | |
$ | 5,671,165 | | |
$ | 5,180,283 | |
| CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES | |
| | | |
| | |
| Capitalization: | |
| | | |
| | |
| Common stock, $0.01 par value; 136,000 shares authorized, 59,638 and 59,484 outstanding in 2025 and 2024, respectively | |
| 596 | | |
$ | 595 | |
| Additional paid-in capital | |
| 973,454 | | |
| 966,975 | |
| Retained earnings | |
| 729,276 | | |
| 674,918 | |
| Accumulated other comprehensive loss | |
| (13,922 | ) | |
| (7,217 | ) |
| Noncontrolling interests | |
| 2,571 | | |
| 3,015 | |
| Total equity | |
| 1,691,975 | | |
| 1,638,286 | |
| Long-term debt, net | |
| 1,471,968 | | |
| 1,104,571 | |
| Total capitalization | |
| 3,163,943 | | |
| 2,742,857 | |
| Current liabilities: | |
| | | |
| | |
| Current maturities of long-term debt, net | |
| 2,270 | | |
| 72,422 | |
| Short-term borrowings | |
| 130,000 | | |
| 205,000 | |
| Accounts payable | |
| 175,729 | | |
| 167,533 | |
| Regulatory balancing accounts | |
| 25,458 | | |
| 22,648 | |
| Accrued other taxes | |
| 6,048 | | |
| 6,084 | |
| Accrued interest | |
| 12,976 | | |
| 8,406 | |
| Other accrued liabilities | |
| 65,683 | | |
| 56,271 | |
| Total current liabilities | |
| 418,164 | | |
| 538,364 | |
| Deferred income taxes | |
| 450,946 | | |
| 411,083 | |
| Regulatory liabilities | |
| 929,814 | | |
| 814,551 | |
| Pension | |
| 94,226 | | |
| 81,665 | |
| Advances for construction | |
| 210,638 | | |
| 202,614 | |
| Contributions in aid of construction | |
| 297,016 | | |
| 294,970 | |
| Other | |
| 106,418 | | |
| 94,179 | |
| Commitments and contingencies | |
| | | |
| | |
| TOTAL CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES | |
$ | 5,671,165 | | |
$ | 5,180,283 | |
CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE GROUP
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
Unaudited
| |
|
Three Months Ended December 31, |
|
|
Twelve Months Ended December 31, |
|
| (In thousands, except per share data) |
|
2025 |
|
|
2024 |
|
|
2025 |
|
|
2024 |
|
| Operating revenue |
|
$ |
219,978 |
|
|
$ |
222,195 |
|
|
$ |
1,000,140 |
|
|
$ |
1,036,806 |
|
| Operating expenses: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Operations: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Water production costs |
|
|
71,040 |
|
|
|
73,728 |
|
|
|
322,237 |
|
|
|
310,648 |
|
| Administrative and general |
|
|
37,843 |
|
|
|
36,424 |
|
|
|
141,571 |
|
|
|
139,515 |
|
| Other operations |
|
|
36,120 |
|
|
|
32,288 |
|
|
|
130,106 |
|
|
|
118,457 |
|
| Maintenance |
|
|
9,478 |
|
|
|
8,689 |
|
|
|
36,001 |
|
|
|
34,753 |
|
| Depreciation and amortization |
|
|
36,262 |
|
|
|
33,014 |
|
|
|
144,365 |
|
|
|
131,901 |
|
| Income tax (benefit) expense |
|
|
(7,373 |
) |
|
|
(3,772 |
) |
|
|
11,216 |
|
|
|
35,938 |
|
| Property and other taxes |
|
|
11,008 |
|
|
|
9,578 |
|
|
|
44,275 |
|
|
|
40,540 |
|
| Total operating expenses |
|
|
194,378 |
|
|
|
189,949 |
|
|
|
829,771 |
|
|
|
811,752 |
|
| Net operating income |
|
|
25,600 |
|
|
|
32,246 |
|
|
|
170,369 |
|
|
|
225,054 |
|
| Other income and expenses: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Non-regulated revenue |
|
|
5,435 |
|
|
|
5,884 |
|
|
|
20,776 |
|
|
|
20,628 |
|
| Non-regulated expenses |
|
|
(5,859 |
) |
|
|
(7,188 |
) |
|
|
(14,649 |
) |
|
|
(14,201 |
) |
| Other components of net periodic benefit credit |
|
|
4,293 |
|
|
|
3,741 |
|
|
|
18,230 |
|
|
|
15,803 |
|
| Allowance for equity funds used during construction |
|
|
1,869 |
|
|
|
1,650 |
|
|
|
7,709 |
|
|
|
6,902 |
|
| Income tax expense on other income and expenses |
|
|
(2,475 |
) |
|
|
(1,985 |
) |
|
|
(7,890 |
) |
|
|
(6,551 |
) |
| Net other income |
|
|
3,263 |
|
|
|
2,102 |
|
|
|
24,176 |
|
|
|
22,581 |
|
| Interest expense: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Interest expense |
|
|
18,306 |
|
|
|
15,674 |
|
|
|
70,392 |
|
|
|
60,698 |
|
| Allowance for borrowed funds used during construction |
|
|
(923 |
) |
|
|
(790 |
) |
|
|
(3,695 |
) |
|
|
(3,148 |
) |
| Net interest expense |
|
|
17,383 |
|
|
|
14,884 |
|
|
|
66,697 |
|
|
|
57,550 |
|
| Net income |
|
|
11,480 |
|
|
|
19,464 |
|
|
|
127,848 |
|
|
|
190,085 |
|
| Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests |
|
|
(2 |
) |
|
|
(195 |
) |
|
|
(363 |
) |
|
|
(722 |
) |
| Net income attributable to California Water Service Group |
|
|
11,482 |
|
|
$ |
19,659 |
|
|
$ |
128,211 |
|
|
$ |
190,807 |
|
| Earnings per share of common stock: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Basic |
|
|
0.19 |
|
|
$ |
0.33 |
|
|
$ |
2.15 |
|
|
$ |
3.26 |
|
| Diluted |
|
|
0.19 |
|
|
$ |
0.33 |
|
|
$ |
2.15 |
|
|
$ |
3.25 |
|
| Weighted average shares outstanding: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Basic |
|
|
59,609 |
|
|
|
59,477 |
|
|
|
59,570 |
|
|
|
58,612 |
|
| Diluted |
|
|
59,691 |
|
|
|
59,535 |
|
|
|
59,633 |
|
|
|
58,647 |
|
| Dividends per share of common stock |
|
|
0.30 |
|
|
$ |
0.28 |
|
|
$ |
1.24 |
|
|
$ |
1.12 |
|
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
The Company's revenue, net income, and diluted earnings
per share are prepared in accordance with GAAP and represent amounts reported on filings with the SEC. Adjusted revenue, net income,
and diluted earnings per share are non-GAAP financial measures representing GAAP balances that, in this earnings release, are adjusted
to exclude the effects of 2023 interim rate relief related to the delayed 2021 California GRC decision recorded and finalized by the
Company in 2024. These non-GAAP financial measures are provided as additional information for investors and analysts to better assess
the Company's 2025 financial performance as compared to 2024 without the impact of the 2023 interim rate relief on 2024 results. Management
also uses these non-GAAP financial measures in evaluating the Company's performance. These non-GAAP financial measures may be different
from non-GAAP financial measures used by other companies, even when the same or similarly titled terms are used to identify such measures,
limiting their usefulness for comparative purposes. Further, these non-GAAP financial measures should be considered as a supplement to
the financial information prepared on a GAAP basis rather than an alternative to the respective GAAP measures.
Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures
| | |
Twelve Months Ended December 31, | |
| (in thousands, except per share amounts) | |
2025 | | |
2024 | |
| Reported GAAP Revenue | |
$ | 1,000,140 | | |
$ | 1,036,806 | |
| Adjustments: | |
| | | |
| | |
| 2023 interim rate relief related to the 2021 California General Rate Case recorded in 2024 | |
| — | | |
| (87,482 | ) |
| Adjusted Revenue (non-GAAP) | |
$ | 1,000,140 | | |
$ | 949,324 | |
| | |
| | | |
| | |
| Reported GAAP Net Income | |
$ | 128,211 | | |
$ | 190,807 | |
| Adjustments: | |
| | | |
| | |
| 2023 interim rate relief related to the 2021 California General Rate Case recorded in 2024 | |
| — | | |
| (63,980 | ) |
| Adjusted Net Income (non-GAAP) | |
$ | 128,211 | | |
$ | 126,827 | |
| | |
| | | |
| | |
| Reported GAAP Diluted Earnings Per Share | |
$ | 2.15 | | |
$ | 3.25 | |
| Adjustments: | |
| | | |
| | |
| 2023 interim rate relief related to the 2021 California General Rate Case recorded in 2024 | |
| — | | |
| (1.09 | ) |
| Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share (non-GAAP) | |
$ | 2.15 | | |
$ | 2.16 | |
Exhibit 99.2

Q4 and YE 2025 Earnings & Strong Start to 2026 February 26, 2026

Today’s Speakers 2 Marty Kropelnicki Chairman & CEO James Lynch Sr. Vice President, CFO & Treasurer Greg Milliman VP, Rates & Regulatory Affairs Shilen Patel Chief Business Development Officer & VP TWSC, Inc.

This presentation contains forward - looking statements within the meaning established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (“ PSLRA ”). The forward - looking statements are intended to qualify under provisions of the federal securities laws for “safe harbor” treatment established by the PSLRA . Forward - looking statements in this presentation are based on currently available information, expectations, estimates, assumptions and projections, and our management’s beliefs, assumptions, judgments and expectations a bou t us, the water utility industry and general economic conditions. These statements are not statements of historical fact. When used in our documents, statements that are not historical in nat ure , including words like will, would, expects, intends, plans, believes, may, could, estimates, assumes, anticipates, projects, progress, predicts, hopes, targets, forecasts, should, seeks or variations of these words or similar expressions are intended to identify forward - looking statements. Examples of forward - looking statements in this presentation include, but are not limited to, statements describing e xpectations regarding financial performance, operating plans, capital investments and expenditures, depreciation, expectations regarding California Water Service Group’s (Group or Company) plans and proposals pursuant to and progress of the California Water Service Company’s (Cal Water) 2024 General Rate Case, the anticipated closing and timing of acquisitions of Nexus Water Group’s Nevad a a nd Oregon utilities, and remaining outstanding membership interests in BVRT and expected benefits resulting from the Nevada, Oregon, and BVRT acquisitions, PFAS - related investments and receipt of PFA S settlement proceeds, rate base growth, customer growth potential, compound annual growth rate and annual dividend yield. Forward - looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. They are based on numerous assumptions that we believe are reasonable, but they are open to a wide range of uncertainties and business risks. Consequently, actual results or outcomes m ay vary materially from what is contained in a forward - looking statement. Factors that may cause actual results or outcomes to be different than those expected or anticipated include, but are not lim ite d to: the outcome and timeliness of regulatory commissions’ actions concerning rate relief and other matters, including with respect to the 2024 CA GRC and GRC’s of our other subsidiaries; the imp act of opposition to rate increases; our ability to recover costs; Federal governmental and state regulatory commissions’ decisions, including decisions on proper disposition of property; changes in s tat e regulatory commissions’ policies and procedures; changes in California State Water Resources Control Board water quality standards; changes in environmental compliance and water quality requiremen ts, EPA’s finalization of a National Primary Drinking Water Regulation establishing legally enforceable maximum contaminant levels (MCL) for PFAS in drinking water in 2024 as well as legal challe nge s to such MCLS; the impact of weather, climate change, natural disasters, including wildfires and landslides, and actual or threatened public health emergencies, including disease outbreaks, on our o per ations, water quality, water availability, water sales and operating results and the adequacy of our emergency preparedness; electric power interruptions, especially as a result of public safety power s hut off programs; availability of water supplies; our ability to invest or apply the proceeds from the issuance of common stock in an accretive manner; consequences of eminent domain actions relating to our wa ter systems; increased risk of inverse condemnation losses as a result of the impact of weather, climate change, and natural disasters, including wildfires and landslides; shifts in population, in clu ding housing and customer growth; issues with the implementation, maintenance or security of our information technology systems; physical and cyber security risks and threats and the adequacy of our efforts to mitigate such risks and threats; the ability of our enterprise risk management processes to identify or address risks adequately; labor relations matters as we negotiate with the unions; c han ges in customer water use patterns and the effects of conservation, including as a result of drought conditions; our ability to complete, in a timely manner or at all, successfully integrate an d a chieve anticipated benefits from announced acquisitions; including the Nevada, Oregon, and BVRT acquisitions; restrictive covenants in or changes to the credit ratings on our current or future debt that c oul d increase our financing costs or affect our ability to borrow, make payments on debt or pay dividends; risks associated with expanding our business and operations, including into other geographic areas; th e impact of stagnating or worsening business and economic conditions, including inflationary pressures, general economic slowdown or a recession, changes in tariff policy, the interest rate envir onm ent, changes in monetary policy, adverse capital markets activity or macroeconomic conditions as a result of geopolitical conflicts, and the prospect of shutdowns of the U.S. federal government; th e impact of market conditions and volatility on unrealized gains or losses on our non - qualified benefit plan investments and our operating results; the impact of weather and timing of meter reads on our accrued and unbilled revenue; the impact of evolving legal and regulatory requirements, including emerging sustainability requirements; the impact of the evolving U.S. political environment and chang es effected, proposed or threatened by the U.S. federal government that has led to, in some cases, legal challenges and uncertainty around the funding, functioning and policy priorities of U.S. federal re gulatory agencies and the status of current and future regulations; and other risks and unforeseen events described in our SEC filings. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, investors a re cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward - looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this presentation. When considering forward - looking statements, you should keep in mind the caution ary statements included in this paragraph, as well as the Annual Report on Form 10 - K, Quarterly 10 - Q, and other reports filed from time - to - time with the SEC. We are not under any obligation, and we ex pressly disclaim any obligation to update or alter any forward - looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. A credit rating is not a recommendation to bu y, sell, or hold any securities, and may be changed at any time by the applicable ratings agency and should be evaluated independently of any other information. Forward - Looking Statements and Other Important Information 3

Kicking Off Our Centennial Year with Good News on Regulatory and Business Development Fronts 4 Reached agreement to purchase outstanding minority interest in BVRT Utility Holdings, and become sole owner of seven Texas water and wastewater utilities in South Austin - San Antonio corridor 2024 California General Rate Case proceeding with expected decision early in Q2; rate cases pending in Texas and Washington BVRT Utilities Rate Case Activity Acquisition Regulatory Executed agreement to purchase Nexus Water Group’s Nevada and Oregon operations adding ~36,000 equivalent residential connections. Nexus Water Group Acquisition

First, Let’s Wrap Up 2025 5 *The Cost of Capital decision extended by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) includes a Water Cost of Capital Me chanism (WCCM). Among its features, the WCCM provides for a 50% adjustment to ROE for each 100 - basis point change in the Moody’s AA Utility Bond Index as measured over the 12 - month period from October 1 st to September 30th. Q4 and full - year 2025 financial results dampened by wet weather in December Invested $152.3 million in water system infrastructure in Q4, bringing 2025 Investment total to record $517.0 million Retained ROE of 10.27% until January 2028* - one of the highest of any regulated water utility in U.S. 1 2 Received approval to increase 2026 interim rates by 3% in CA and completed rate cases in HI and WA 5 Paid 323rd consecutive quarterly dividend of $0.30 per share 3 4 Retained S&P Global rating of A+/Stable – one of the highest of any regulated water utility in U.S. 6

Q4 Results Negatively Impacted by Wet Weather 6 $220.0 $222.2 $0 $50 $100 $150 $200 $250 Operating Revenue $11.5 $19.7 $0 $5 $10 $15 $20 $25 Net Income $0.19 $0.33 $0.00 $0.10 $0.20 $0.30 $0.40 Diluted EPS Q4 2025 vs. Q4 2024 Q4 2024 Q4 2025 Q4 2024 Q4 2025 Q4 2024 Q4 2025 (in millions, except EPS)

Diluted EPS Bridge – Q4 2024 to Q4 2025 Results $0.33 $0.48 $0.15 $0.08 - $0.59 - $0.10 - $0.09 - $0.07 Q4 2024 Diluted EPS Rate Increases and Regulatory Account Changes Income and Other Tax Changes Lower Purchased Water Volumes Partially Offset by Higher Water Rates Consumption Decrease and Unbilled Revenue Change Conservation Expense Increase Depreciation Expense Increase Interest Expense Increase Q4 2025 Diluted EPS $0.00 $0.20 $0.40 $0.60 $0.80 $1.00 $1.20 $0.19

YE 2025 Financial Results Impacted by Q4 Wet Weather, Third Year of CA Rate Case Cycle (in millions, except EPS) $1,036.8 $190.8 $0 $150 $300 $450 $600 $750 $900 $1,050 $1,200 Operating Revenue Net Income $3.25 $0.00 $1.00 $2.00 $3.00 $4.00 Diluted EPS $1,000.1 $949.3 $0 $200 $400 $600 $800 $1,000 $1,200 Operating Revenue $128.2 $126.8 $0 $25 $50 $75 $100 $125 $150 Net Income $2.15 $2.16 $0.00 $0.25 $0.50 $0.75 $1.00 $1.25 $1.50 $1.75 $2.00 $2.25 $2.50 Diluted EPS 2025 vs. 2024 Non - GAAP* Results *As a result of the delayed 2021 California GRC decision, interim rate relief related to 2023 was recorded and finalized in 2 024 . Non - GAAP measures adjust for the impact of 2023 interim rate relief on 2024 results. For more information, please see the reconciliati on of 2024 results and related explanations in the Appendix. 2024 Non - GAAP 2025 2024 GAAP Results 2024 Non - GAAP 2025 2024 Non - GAAP 2025 (in millions, except EPS) 8

9 Diluted EPS Bridge 2024 to 2025 Results $3.25 $2.15 $0.00 $0.50 $1.00 $1.50 $2.00 $2.50 $3.00 $3.50 Diluted EPS 2024 vs. 2025 Non - GAAP 2024* Diluted EPS to 2025 GAAP Diluted EPS Bridge *As a result of the delayed 2021 California GRC decision, interim rate relief related to 2023 was recorded and finalized in 2 024 . Non - GAAP measures adjust for the impact of 2023 interim rate relief on 2024 results. For more information, please see the reconciliati on of 2024 results and related explanations in the Appendix. 2024 GAAP 2025 $2.16 $0.89 $0.16 - $0.27 - $0.19 - $0.18 - $0.13 - $0.12 - $0.04 - $0.13 $0.00 $0.50 $1.00 $1.50 $2.00 $2.50 $3.00 $3.50 $2.15

Infrastructure Investment Improves Reliability and Sustainability, Powers Long - Term Earnings 10 *Estimates for 2026 - 2027 are based on amounts requested in the 2024 California GRC application (adjusted for 2025 actual results where applicable), plus estimated capital expenditures in our other states. These capital expenditures are subject to review and approval by the CPUC and other regulat ors . Note: Estimates for 2026 - 2027 exclude anticipated Nevada, Oregon, and PFAS - related capital investments. Remaining estimated PFAS program expenditures are $235.3M (bef ore potential offsets) representing $178.3M in treatment and $57.0M in well replacement costs. PFAS expenditures are expected to be incurred over multiple years. $272 $274 $299 $293 $328 $384 $471 $517 $760 $690 $84 $89 $99 $109 $115 $121 $132 $144 $147 $169 $0 $100 $200 $300 $400 $500 $600 $700 $800 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026* 2027* Capital Investment Depreciation 2025 - 2027 TOTAL CapEx 4x DEPRECIATION (in millions) Growth in capital investment outpaces depreciation Q4 2025 $ 152.3M $ 36.3M Depreciation YE 2025 $ 517.0M $ 144.4M Depreciation Cap - Ex

Earnings Performance Driven Capital Investment/Rate Base Growth 11 Rate base estimated to reach over $3.3 billion by 2027 *Estimates for 2026 - 2027 are based on amounts requested in the 2024 California GRC application (adjusted for 2025 actual results where applicable), plus estimated capital expenditures in our other states. These capital expenditures are subject to review and approval by the CPUC and other regulators. Note: Estim ate s for 2026 - 2027 exclude anticipated Nevada, Oregon, and PFAS - related capital investments. Remaining estimated PFAS program expenditures are $235.3M (before potential offsets) represent ing $178.3M in treatment and $57.0M in well replacement costs. PFAS expenditures are expected to be incurred over multiple years. $1.24 $1.26 $1.61 $1.87 $2.01 $2.20 $2.39 $2.64 $2.93 $3.35 $0.00 $0.50 $1.00 $1.50 $2.00 $2.50 $3.00 $3.50 $4.00 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026* 2027* (in billions)

Additional Financial Highlights 12 323 th consecutive quarterly dividend of $0.30 per share $0.04 one - time special dividend brings 2025 dividend to $1.24 per share 2026 announced annual dividend indicative of $1.34 per share; 59 th consecutive increase; 8.1% higher than 2025 total 7.7% five - year dividend CAGR (inclusive of $0.04 special dividend) Credit facilities of $600.0M that can be expanded up to $800.0M ; facilities mature in March 2028 Combination of Group notes and Cal Water bonds issued in aggregate principal amount of $370.0M in October 2025 ATM program renewed in May 2025; $350.0M shelf registration; $1.5M program sales occurred in Q3 2025 Continue to maintain strong liquidity profile to execute on capital plan Liquidity Balance Sheet Strength Dividend Momentum Strategic M&A investment expected to focus primarily on tuck - in acquisitions as Group progresses Nexus and BVRT acquisitions At year - end, Company had $51.8M in unrestricted cash and $45.6M in restricted cash; approximately $470.0M available on bank lines of credit Group and Cal Water’s S&P Global credit rating A+/stable

13 Acquisition Bolsters Our Position as Leader in Western U.S., Provides Platform for Additional Growth Closing expected by the end of 2026 , subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals Transaction consistent with Group’s disciplined capital allocation framework and long - term growth strategy Establishes scalable regional platform with embedded growth opportunities Acquiring Nexus Water Group’s subsidiaries in Nevada and Oregon expands Cal Water’s footprint into two additional Western states, increasing rate base outside of California (excluding BVRT) by approximately 40% ~36,000 Total equivalent residential connections serving an estimated 115,000 people 16 Utility systems ~$109M Increased consolidated year - end 2025 rate base $218M * Purchase price * Subject to customary closing adjustments

Combined Company Highlights 14 • 9,127 total equivalent residential connections: 4,835 water / 4,292 wastewater • 10 utility systems across three counties, regulated water and unregulated wastewater assets • Second largest water/wastewater utility in Oregon • Regulated by Oregon Public Utility Commission (OPUC) (regulated water operations) • 26,466 total equivalent residential connections: 19,919 water / 6,547 wastewater • 6 utility systems across three counties • Largest investor - owned water/wastewater utility in Nevada • Regulated by Public Utilities Commission of Nevada (PUCN) HI OR NV CA NM WA TX Proposed Future Service Areas Existing Service Areas Nevada Oregon

Strategic Rationale 15 Geographic diversification into Nevada and Oregon enhances regulatory and financial balance Acquires rate - base - driven growth platform with customer growth and capex investment opportunities Both states operate under hybrid ratemaking frameworks, supporting ongoing infrastructure investment Opportunity to optimize and allocate corporate and shared service costs over larger operational base benefit customers Strong historical regulatory relationships supported by successful rate case outcomes Embedded growth pipeline, both tuck - in acquisitions and customer connections Assets and operating profile consistent with Cal Water’s operating principles and operations

Acquiring the remaining outstanding membership interests of BVRT in Texas 16 2,000 2,000 2,800 4,200 5,000 2,000 3,000 8,500 10,000 14,000 0 5,000 10,000 15,000 20,000 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Customer Growth Connected Committed 19,000+ Total connected & committed customers in 2025 20,000+ Additional likely customers in existing service areas 100,000+ Additional potential customers near existing service areas 7 BVRT - owned regulated utilities in high - growth areas Group has entered into agreement to purchase remaining outstanding membership interests in BVRT Would become sole owner of 7 subsidiary water and wastewater utilities in Austin - San Antonio corridor BVRT expansion continues through system buildouts and enhancing water/wastewater infrastructure in area Group’s Texas subsidiary to file change of control application with Public Utilities Commission of Texas (PUCT) to acquire remaining outstanding BVRT membership interests Acquisition is subject to satisfaction of customary terms and conditions in addition to PUCT and Group Board approval

Proposed Decision on 2024 California General Rate Case Expected in Early Q2 17 $ 1.6B Investment proposed in Cal Water from 2025 - 2027 18 Month - long process for triennial rate case filing with CPUC per the rate case plan; proceeding has been extended LUWEP Application proposes Low - Use Water Equity Program that would decouple revenue from water sales to enhance affordability Key 2026 dates Requests rate adjustments necessary to generate total revenue increases of: 2026 2027 2028 $140.6M (17.1%) $ 83.6M (8.1%) $72.4M (7.7%) Authorized 3.0% interim rate increase goes into effect Based on prior ALJ Ruling, 90 - day deadline for ALJ to issue proposed decision (PD) Comments due from parties After reply comments filed, oral arguments delivered to CPUC, if needed Extension deadline for final decision; Commissioners can vote as early as 30 days after PD and oral arguments Jan. 1 By April 6 25 days after PD Within 10 days June 8

Other Regulatory Updates In November 2025, Hawaii Water filed a rate case with the Hawaii PUC for a $2.2 million annual revenue increase to recover higher operating expenses and the cost of system improvements In October 2025, the Hawaii PUC approved an annual revenue increase of $4.7 million for Hawaii Water’s five Waikoloa systems, with a two - year phase - in beginning Oct. 9, 2025 In June 2024, BVRT filed a consolidated rate case for 5 water utilities with the PUCT During second quarter 2025,BVRT reached settlement with Consumer Advocate, interim rates were adopted PUCT approval is pending In September 2025, Washington Water filed a rate case with the Washington Commission for a $4.9 million annual revenue increase to recover system investments and rising operating costs Washington Water has completed infrastructure upgrades across multiple systems, including new mains, treatment facilities, booster stations, and remote monitoring to enhance reliability and water quality The rate request also reflects higher labor, materials, and PFAS compliance costs under new federal regulations New rates anticipated to be effective second half of 2026 18

• Finalizing transactions and integrating new utilities in TX, NV, and OR • Implementing 2024 CA GRC, proactively pursuing rate relief in WA, NM, and HI, and preparing to file 2027 CA GRC • Pursuing new growth opportunities in new high - growth areas • Continuing to invest in water and wastewater system infrastructure • Staying focused on affordability and growth Our Focus in 2026 and Beyond

Appendix

The Company’s revenue, net income, and diluted earnings per share are prepared in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and represent amounts reported on filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Adjusted revenue, net income, and diluted earnings per share in YTD 2024 are non - GAAP financial measures representing GAAP balances that, in this presentation, are adjusted for the effects of 2023 interim rate relief related to the delayed 2021 California GRC recorded by the Company in March 2024. These non - GAAP financial measures are provided as additional information for investors and analysts to better assess the Company’s 2024 financial performance and normalize for the impact of the 2023 interim rate relief on 2024 reported results. Management also uses these non - GAAP financial measures in evaluating the Company’s performance. These non - GAAP financial measures may be different from non - GAAP financial measures used by other companies, even when the same or similarly titled terms are used to identify such measures, limiting their usefulness for comparative purposes. Further, these non - GAAP financial measures should be considered as a supplement to the financial information prepared on a GAAP basis rather than an alternative to the respective GAAP measures. Non - GAAP Financial Measures 21

Reconciliation of Non - GAAP Financial Measures 22 Year Ended (in millions, except per share amounts) 2024 2025 $1,036,806 $1,000,140 Reported GAAP Operating Revenue Adjustments: ($87,482) — 2023 interim rate relief related to the 2021 California GRC recorded in 2024 $949,324 $1,000,140 Adjusted Operating Revenue (non - GAAP) $190,807 $128,211 Reported GAAP Net Income Adjustments: ($63,980) — 2023 interim rate relief related to the 2021 California GRC recorded in 2024 $126,827 $128,211 Adjusted Net Income attributable to California Water Service Group (non - GAAP) $3.25 $2.15 Reported GAAP Diluted Earnings Per Share Adjustments: ($1.09) — 2023 interim rate relief related to the 2021 California GRC recorded in 2024 $2.16 $2.15 Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share (non - GAAP)
Exhibit 99.3
DATE: February 25, 2026
| CONTACT: |
Shannon Dean, (408) 367-8243 |
| |
Jim Lynch, (408) 367-8200 |
For Immediate Release
California Water Service Group
Announces Agreement to Purchase
Nexus Water Group’s Nevada
and Oregon Water and Wastewater Systems,
Solidifying Its Position as the
Largest Regulated Water Utility in the
Western U.S. and Creating a Platform for Additional Growth
| · | Adds
approximately 36,000 equivalent residential connections across water and wastewater systems
in Nevada and Oregon |
| · | Expands
footprint and solidifies Company’s position as the largest regulated water utility
in the western United States |
| · | Establishes
a scalable regional platform with embedded growth opportunities |
| · | Provides
a clear pathway for new capital investments benefiting Oregon and Nevada water and wastewater
customers |
| · | Conference
call at 8 a.m. PT on February 26 |
SAN JOSE, Calif., February 25, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE)
-- California Water Service Group (NYSE: CWT), a leading publicly traded water utility serving California, Hawaii, New Mexico, Washington,
and Texas, announced today that it has reached an agreement to purchase Nexus Water Group’s Nevada and Oregon water and wastewater
systems, adding approximately 36,000 equivalent residential connections and a combined rate base of approximately $109 million at December
31, 2025.
“This is a great way to kick off our centennial
year,” said Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Martin A. Kropelnicki. “We started out serving four small California communities
in 1926, and with this acquisition, we will serve roughly two million people through approximately 584,000 service connections in seven
western states. We look forward to completing the transaction and integrating the systems in a way that provides opportunities for employees
and excellent service to customers,” he said.
Nexus Water Group President and CEO Rob MacLean said, “Nexus
is committed to driving value through our long-term strategy. With this divestment, we are right-sized and strategically positioned for
continued growth. We look forward to sharpening our focus where we lead the market and can build on our competitive edge in
the industry. We will work closely with California Water Service Group to ensure this transition is seamless for employees and customers.”
According to Kropelnicki, the purchase price of approximately $218
million, which is subject to typical closing adjustments, will be funded with working capital and existing debt and equity facilities.
The Company expects to complete the transaction by the end of 2026, subject to customary closing conditions, including approval from applicable
public utility commissions, and expects it to be accretive to existing operations within a year of closing.
“I want to thank Nexus Water Group for the opportunity to partner
on this transaction as we expand our footprint across the western United States,” Kropelnicki said.
The transaction was unanimously approved by the Boards of Directors
of both Company and Nexus Water Group. Baker McKenzie served as the Company’s external legal counsel.
About California Water Service Group
Group is the parent company of regulated utilities California Water
Service, Hawaii Water Service, New Mexico Water Service, and Washington Water Service, as well as Texas Water Service, a utility holding
company. Together, these companies provide regulated and non-regulated water and wastewater service to more than 2.1 million people in
California, Hawaii, New Mexico, Washington, and Texas. Group’s common stock trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol
“CWT.” Additional information is available online at www.calwatergroup.com.
This news release contains forward-looking statements within
the meaning established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (PSLRA). The forward-looking statements are intended
to qualify under provisions of the federal securities laws for "safe harbor" treatment established by the PSLRA. Forward-looking
statements in this news release are based on currently available information, expectations, estimates, assumptions and projections, and
our management's beliefs, assumptions, judgments and expectations about us, the water utility industry and general economic conditions.
These statements are not statements of historical fact. When used in our documents, statements that are not historical in nature, including
words like will, would, expects, intends, plans, believes, may, could, estimates, assumes, anticipates, projects, progress, predicts,
hopes, targets, forecasts, should, seeks or variations of these words or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking
statements. Examples of forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements describing the anticipated
closing and timing of the Company’s acquisition of Nexus Water Group’s Nevada and Oregon subsidiaries and expected integration
of the acquired systems and benefits resulting from the acquisition. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance.
They are based on numerous assumptions that we believe are reasonable, but they are open to a wide range of uncertainties and business
risks. Consequently, actual results or outcomes may vary materially from what is contained in a forward-looking statement. Factors that
may cause actual results or outcomes to be different than those expected or anticipated include, but are not limited to, the Company’s
ability to complete the acquisition of Nexus Water Group’s Nevada and Oregon subsidiaries in line with management’s expectations,
the Company’s ability to integrate and operate the acquired operations in an effective and accretive manner and those described
under the section entitled “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, our subsequent Quarterly
Reports on Form 10-Q and our other Securities and Exchange Commission filings. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions,
investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this news release.
We are not under any obligation, and we expressly disclaim any obligation to update or alter any forward-looking statements, whether
as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
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