# EDGAR Filing Document

**Accession Number:** 0001733998
**File Stem:** 0001733998-26-000012
**Filing Date:** 2026-2
**Character Count:** 941074
**Document Hash:** c8addf32087ddb2178620c25b6fc1315
**Contains OCR:** False
**Source Format:** 

## Filing Content

## Filing Summary
**0001733998-26-000012.hdr.sgml**: 20260227

**ACCESSION NUMBER**: 0001733998-26-000012

**CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE**: 10-K

**PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT**: 158

**CONFORMED PERIOD OF REPORT**: 20251231

**FILED AS OF DATE**: 20260227

**DATE AS OF CHANGE**: 20260227

**FILER**: 

**COMPANY DATA:**
- **COMPANY CONFORMED NAME:** Northwest Natural Holding Co
- **CENTRAL INDEX KEY:** 0001733998
- **STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION:** NATURAL GAS DISTRIBUTION [4924]
- **ORGANIZATION NAME:** 01 Energy & Transportation
- **EIN:** 824710680
- **STATE OF INCORPORATION:** OR
- **FISCAL YEAR END:** 1231

**FILING VALUES:**
- **FORM TYPE:** 10-K
- **SEC ACT:** 1934 Act
- **SEC FILE NUMBER:** 001-38681
- **FILM NUMBER:** 26696610

**BUSINESS ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 250 SW TAYLOR STREET
- **CITY:** PORTLAND
- **STATE:** OR
- **ZIP:** 97204
- **BUSINESS PHONE:** 503-226-4211

**MAIL ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 250 SW TAYLOR STREET
- **CITY:** PORTLAND
- **STATE:** OR
- **ZIP:** 97204
**FILER**: 

**COMPANY DATA:**
- **COMPANY CONFORMED NAME:** NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS CO
- **CENTRAL INDEX KEY:** 0000073020
- **STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION:** NATURAL GAS DISTRIBUTION [4924]
- **ORGANIZATION NAME:** 01 Energy & Transportation
- **EIN:** 930256722
- **STATE OF INCORPORATION:** OR
- **FISCAL YEAR END:** 1231

**FILING VALUES:**
- **FORM TYPE:** 10-K
- **SEC ACT:** 1934 Act
- **SEC FILE NUMBER:** 001-15973
- **FILM NUMBER:** 26696611

**BUSINESS ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 250 SW TAYLOR STREET
- **CITY:** PORTLAND
- **STATE:** OR
- **ZIP:** 97204
- **BUSINESS PHONE:** 5032264211

**MAIL ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 250 SW TAYLOR STREET
- **CITY:** PORTLAND
- **STATE:** OR
- **ZIP:** 97204

?xml version='1.0' encoding='ASCII'? nwn-20251231

**UNITED STATES**

**SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION**

**Washington, D.C. 20549**

**FORM 10-K** 

☒&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

**For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025** 

OR

☐&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from ___________ to___________

---

| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| Commission file number | 1-38681 | 1-38681 | 1-38681 | Commission file number | 1-15973 | 1-15973 |
| ![nwnholdingshza33.jpg](nwn-20251231_g1.jpg) | ![nwnholdingshza33.jpg](nwn-20251231_g1.jpg) | ![nwnholdingshza33.jpg](nwn-20251231_g1.jpg) | ![nwnholdingshza33.jpg](nwn-20251231_g1.jpg) | ![nwn4chza30.jpg](nwn-20251231_g2.jpg) | ![nwn4chza30.jpg](nwn-20251231_g2.jpg) | ![nwn4chza30.jpg](nwn-20251231_g2.jpg) |
| **NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY** | **NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY** | **NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY** | **NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY** | **NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY** | **NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY** | **NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY** |
| (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) | (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) | (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) | (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) | (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) | (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) | (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) |
| **Oregon** | **82-4710680** | **82-4710680** | **82-4710680** | **Oregon** | **93-0256722** | **93-0256722** |
| (State or other jurisdiction of<br>incorporation or organization) | (I.R.S. Employer<br>Identification No.) | (I.R.S. Employer<br>Identification No.) | (I.R.S. Employer<br>Identification No.) | (State or other jurisdiction of<br>incorporation or organization) | (I.R.S. Employer<br>Identification No.) | (I.R.S. Employer<br>Identification No.) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**250 S.W. Taylor Street** | **Oregon** | **Oregon** | **97204** | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**250 S.W. Taylor Street** | **Oregon** | **97204** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; (Address of principal executive offices) | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; (Address of principal executive offices) | (Zip Code) | (Zip Code) | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; (Address of principal executive offices) | (Zip Code) | (Zip Code) |
| Registrant's telephone number, including area code: **(503) 226-4211** | Registrant's telephone number, including area code: **(503) 226-4211** | Registrant's telephone number, including area code: **(503) 226-4211** | Registrant's telephone number, including area code: **(503) 226-4211** | Registrant's telephone number, including area code: **(503) 226-4211** | Registrant's telephone number, including area code: **(503) 226-4211** | Registrant's telephone number, including area code: **(503) 226-4211** |
| Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: | Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: | Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: | Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: | Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: | Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: | Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: |
| <u>Registrant</u>  | <u>Registrant</u>  | <u>Title of each class</u> | <u>Title of each class</u> | Name of each exchange <br><u>on which registered</u> | Name of each exchange <br><u>on which registered</u> | Name of each exchange <br><u>on which registered</u> |
| Northwest Natural Holding Company | Northwest Natural Holding Company | Common Stock | Common Stock | New York Stock Exchange | New York Stock Exchange | New York Stock Exchange |
| Northwest Natural Gas Company | Northwest Natural Gas Company |  |  |  |  |  |
| Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None. | Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None. | Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None. | Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None. | Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None. | Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None. | Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None. |
| Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. | Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. | Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. | Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. | Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. | Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. | Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. |
| NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY | Yes | ☒ | No | NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY | ☐ | No |
| Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. | Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. | Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. | Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. | Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. | Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. | Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. |
| NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY | Yes | ☐ | No | NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY | ☐ | No |
| Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. |
| NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY | Yes | ☒ | No | NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY | ☒ | No |
| Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). |
| NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY | Yes | ☒ | No | NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY | ☒ | No |
| Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer," "smaller reporting company" and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer," "smaller reporting company" and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer," "smaller reporting company" and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer," "smaller reporting company" and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer," "smaller reporting company" and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer," "smaller reporting company" and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer," "smaller reporting company" and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. |
| NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY | NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY | NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY | NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY | NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY | NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY | NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY |
| Large Accelerated Filer | Large Accelerated Filer | Large Accelerated Filer | ☒ | Large Accelerated Filer | Large Accelerated Filer | ☐ |
| Accelerated Filer | Accelerated Filer | Accelerated Filer | ☐ | Accelerated Filer | Accelerated Filer | ☐ |
| Non-accelerated Filer | Non-accelerated Filer | Non-accelerated Filer | ☐ | Non-accelerated Filer | Non-accelerated Filer | ☒ |
| Smaller Reporting Company | Smaller Reporting Company | Smaller Reporting Company | ☐ | Smaller Reporting Company | Smaller Reporting Company | ☐ |
| Emerging Growth Company | Emerging Growth Company | Emerging Growth Company | ☐ | Emerging Growth Company | 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. ☐ | 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. ☐ | 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. ☐ | 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. ☐ | 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. ☐ | 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. ☐ | 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. ☐ |
| Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management's assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management's assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management's assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management's assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management's assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management's assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management's assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. |
| NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY | Yes | ☒ | No | NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY | ☐ | No |
| If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the correction of an error to previously issued financial statements. | If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the correction of an error to previously issued financial statements. | If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the correction of an error to previously issued financial statements. | If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the correction of an error to previously issued financial statements. | If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the correction of an error to previously issued financial statements. | If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the correction of an error to previously issued financial statements. | If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the correction of an error to previously issued financial statements. |
| NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY | Yes | ☐ | No | NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY | ☐ | No |
| Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the registrant's executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to §240.10D-1(b). | Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the registrant's executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to §240.10D-1(b). | Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the registrant's executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to §240.10D-1(b). | Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the registrant's executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to §240.10D-1(b). | Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the registrant's executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to §240.10D-1(b). | Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the registrant's executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to §240.10D-1(b). | Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the registrant's executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to §240.10D-1(b). |
| NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY | Yes | ☐ | No | NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY | ☐ | No |

---

------

---

| | | | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). | Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). |
| NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY | Yes | ☐ | No | ☒ | NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY | Yes | ☐ | No | ☒ |

---

As of the end of the second quarter of 2025, the aggregate market value of the shares of Common Stock of Northwest Natural Holding Company (based upon the closing price of these shares on the New York Stock Exchange on June 30, 2025) held by non-affiliates was $1,610,512,005.

At February 12, 2026, 41,563,846 shares of Northwest Natural Holding Company's Common Stock (the only class of Common Stock) were outstanding. All shares of Northwest Natural Gas Company's Common Stock (the only class of Common Stock) outstanding were held by Northwest Natural Holding Company.

This combined Form 10-K is separately filed by Northwest Natural Holding Company and Northwest Natural Gas Company. Information contained in this document relating to Northwest Natural Gas Company is filed by Northwest Natural Holding Company and separately by Northwest Natural Gas Company. Northwest Natural Gas Company makes no representation as to information relating to Northwest Natural Holding Company or its subsidiaries, except as it may relate to Northwest Natural Gas Company and its subsidiaries.

Northwest Natural Gas Company meets the conditions set forth in General Instruction (I)(1)(a) and (b) of Form 10-K and is therefore filing this report with the reduced disclosure format.

**DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE**

Portions of Northwest Natural Holding Company's Proxy Statement, to be filed in connection with the 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, are incorporated by reference in Part III.

------

*****TABLE OF CONTENTS*****

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| Item |  | Page |
|  | <u>[Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_13)</u> | <u>[4](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_13)</u> |
|  | <u>[Forward-Looking Statements](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_16)</u> | <u>[6](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_16)</u> |
| PART I |  |  |
| Item 1. | <u>[Business](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_25)</u> | <u>[8](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_22)</u> |
|  | <u>[Overview](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_25)</u> | <u>[8](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_22)</u> |
|  | <u>[Business Model](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_25)</u> | <u>[8](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_25)</u> |
|  | <u>[Environmental Matters](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_31)</u> | <u>[18](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_31)</u> |
|  | <u>[Human Capital](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_34)</u> | <u>[18](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_34)</u> |
|  | <u>[Information About Our Executive Officers](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_37)</u> | <u>[19](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_37)</u> |
|  | <u>[Available Information](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_40)</u> | <u>[19](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_40)</u> |
| Item 1A. | <u>[Risk Factors](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_43)</u> | <u>[20](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_43)</u> |
| Item 1B. | <u>[Unresolved Staff Comments](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_46)</u> | <u>[35](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_46)</u> |
| Item 1C. | <u>[Cybersecurity](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_49)</u> | <u>[32](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_49)</u> |
| Item 2. | <u>[Properties](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_52)</u> | <u>[37](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_52)</u> |
| Item 3. | <u>[Legal Proceedings](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_55)</u> | <u>[38](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_55)</u> |
| Item 4. | <u>[Mine Safety Disclosures](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_55)</u> | <u>[38](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_55)</u> |
| PART II |  |  |
| Item 5. | <u>[Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_58)</u> | <u>[39](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_58)</u> |
| Item 6. | <u>[Reserved](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_61)</u> | <u>[39](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_61)</u> |
| Item 7. | <u>[Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_70)</u> | <u>[39](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_70)</u> |
| Item 7A. | <u>[Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_157)</u> | <u>[72](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_157)</u> |
| Item 8. | <u>[Financial Statements and Supplementary Data](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_160)</u> | <u>[75](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_160)</u> |
| Item 9. | <u>[Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_295)</u> | <u>[152](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_295)</u> |
| Item 9A. | <u>[Controls and Procedures](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_295)</u> | <u>[152](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_295)</u> |
| Item 9B. | <u>[Other Information](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_295)</u> | <u>[152](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_295)</u> |
| Item 9C. | <u>[Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions that Prevent Inspections](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_295)</u> | <u>[133](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_295)</u> |
| PART III |  |  |
| Item 10. | <u>[Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_298)</u> | <u>[153](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_298)</u> |
| Item 11. | <u>[Executive Compensation](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_301)</u> | <u>[155](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_301)</u> |
| Item 12. | <u>[Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_304)</u> | <u>[155](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_304)</u> |
| Item 13. | <u>[Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_307)</u> | <u>[157](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_307)</u> |
| Item 14. | <u>[Principal Accountant Fees and Services](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_307)</u> | <u>[157](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_307)</u> |
| PART IV |  |  |
| Item 15. | <u>[Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_310)</u> | <u>[157](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_310)</u> |
| Item 16. | <u>[Form 10-K Summary](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_310)</u> | <u>[157](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_310)</u> |
| <u>[EXHIBIT INDEX](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_313)</u> | <u>[EXHIBIT INDEX](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_313)</u> | <u>[158](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_313)</u> |
| <u>[SIGNATURES](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_316)</u> | <u>[SIGNATURES](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_316)</u> | <u>[163](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_316)</u> |

---

------

***GLOSSARY OF TERMS AND ABBREVIATIONS***

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| ACC | Arizona Corporation Commission; the entity that regulates NW Holdings' regulated water and wastewater businesses in Arizona with respect to rates and terms of service, among other matters |
| AFUDC | Allowance for Funds Used During Construction |
| AOCI / AOCL | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) |
| ASC | Accounting Standards Codification |
| ASU | Accounting Standards Update as issued by the FASB |
| Average Weather | The 25-year average of heating degree days based on temperatures established in our last Oregon general rate case |
| Bcf | Billion cubic feet, a volumetric measure of natural gas, where one Bcf is roughly equal to 10 million therms |
| CAP | Compliance Assurance Process with the Internal Revenue Service |
| CCA | Climate Commitment Act enacted by the State of Washington |
| CNG | Compressed Natural Gas |
| CODM | Chief Operating Decision Maker, which for accounting purposes is defined as an individual or group of individuals responsible for the allocation of resources and assessing the performance of the entity's business units |
| Cost of Gas | The delivered cost of natural gas sold to customers, including the cost of gas purchased, gas storage costs, gas reserves costs, gas commodity derivative contracts, pipeline demand costs, seasonal demand cost balancing adjustments, renewable natural gas and its attributes, including renewable thermal certificate costs, and regulatory gas cost deferrals |
| CPP | Climate Protection Program established by the Environmental Quality Commission of the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality |
| Decoupling | A natural gas billing rate mechanism, also referred to as a conservation tariff, which is designed to allow a utility to encourage residential and small commercial customers to conserve energy |
| Degree Day | The number of degrees that the average outdoor temperature falls below or exceeds a base value in a given period of time |
| Demand Cost | A component in NW Natural Gas customer rates representing the cost of securing firm pipeline capacity, whether the capacity is used or not |
| ECRM | Environmental Cost Recovery Mechanism, a billing rate mechanism for recovering prudently incurred environmental site remediation costs allocable to Washington customers through NW Natural Gas customer billings |
| Energy Corp | Northwest Energy Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Northwest Natural Gas Company |
| EPA | Environmental Protection Agency |
| EPS | Earnings per share |
| ESPP | Employee Stock Purchase Plan |
| FASB | Financial Accounting Standards Board |
| FERC | Federal Energy Regulatory Commission; the entity regulating interstate storage services offered by the Mist gas storage facility |
| Firm Service | Natural gas service offered to customers under contracts or rate schedules that will not be disrupted to meet the needs of other customers |
| FMBs | First Mortgage Bonds |
| General Rate Case | A periodic filing with state or federal regulators to establish billing rates for utility customers |
| GHG | Greenhouse gases |
| GRIP | Gas Reliability Infrastructure Program, a statute authorized by the Railroad Commission of Texas that allows gas utilities to adjust rates annually to recover investment costs between rate cases |
| Interruptible Service | Natural gas service offered to customers (usually large commercial or industrial users) under contracts or rate schedules that allow for interruptions when necessary to meet the needs of firm service customers |
| Interstate Storage Services | The portion of the Mist gas storage facility not used to serve NW Natural Gas customers, instead serving utilities, third-party marketers, and electric generators |
| IPUC | Public Utility Commission of Idaho; the entity that regulates NW Holdings' regulated water businesses in Idaho with respect to rates and terms of service, among other matters |
| IRP | Integrated Resource Plan |
| KB | Kelso-Beaver Pipeline, of which 10% is owned by KB Pipeline Company, a subsidiary of NNG Financial Corporation |

---

------

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| LNG | Liquefied Natural Gas, the cryogenic liquid form of natural gas. To reach a liquid form at atmospheric pressure, natural gas must be cooled to approximately negative 260 degrees Fahrenheit |
| LTIP | Long Term Incentive Plan |
| Moody's | Moody's Investors Service, Inc., credit rating agency |
| NAV | Net Asset Value |
| NGD | Natural Gas Distribution, a term used prior to the first quarter of 2025 to describe a segment of Northwest Natural Holding Company and Northwest Natural Gas Company that provided regulated natural gas distribution services to residential, commercial, and industrial customers in Oregon and Southwest Washington |
| NNG Financial | NNG Financial Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of NW Holdings |
| NW Holdings | Northwest Natural Holding Company |
| NW Natural | Northwest Natural Gas Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of NW Holdings |
| NW Natural Renewables | NW Natural Renewables Holdings, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of NW Holdings |
| NWN Energy | NW Natural Energy, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of NW Holdings |
| NWN Gas Reserves | NWN Gas Reserves LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Energy Corp |
| NWN Gas Storage | NW Natural Gas Storage, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of NWN Energy |
| NWN Gas Utility Margin | A financial measure used by NW Natural's CODM consisting of NWN Gas Utility operating revenues less the associated cost of gas, revenue taxes, and environmental recoveries |
| NWN Water | NW Natural Water Company, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of NW Holdings |
| ODEQ | Oregon Department of Environmental Quality |
| OPEIU | Office and Professional Employees International Union Local No. 11, AFL-CIO, the Union which represents NW Natural's bargaining unit employees |
| OPUC | Public Utility Commission of Oregon; the entity that regulates our Oregon natural gas and regulated water businesses with respect to rates and terms of service, among other matters; the OPUC also regulates the Mist gas storage facility's intrastate storage services |
| PGA | Purchased Gas Adjustment, a regulatory mechanism primarily used to adjust natural gas customer rates to reflect changes in the forecasted cost of gas and differences between forecasted and actual gas costs from the prior year |
| PHMSA | U.S. Department of Transportation's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration |
| PUCT | Public Utility Commission of Texas; the entity that regulates NW Holdings' regulated water and wastewater businesses in Texas with respect to rates and terms of service, among other matters |
| RNG | Renewable Natural Gas, a source of natural gas derived from organic materials which may be captured, refined, and distributed on natural gas pipeline systems |
| RNG Hold Co | NW Natural RNG Holding Company, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Northwest Natural Gas Company |
| ROE | Return on Equity, a measure of corporate profitability, calculated as net income or loss divided by average common equity. Authorized ROE refers to the equity rate approved by a regulatory agency for use in determining utility revenue requirements |
| ROR | Rate of Return, a measure of return on utility rate base. Authorized ROR refers to the rate of return approved by a regulatory agency and is generally discussed in the context of ROE and capital structure |
| RRC | Railroad Commission of Texas; the entity that, along with the cities in which SiEnergy operates, regulates SiEnergy's natural gas business |
| RSU | Restricted Stock Unit |
| RTC | Renewable Thermal Certificate |
| S&P | Standard & Poor's Financial Services LLC, a credit rating agency and a subsidiary of S&P Global Inc. |
| Sales Service | Service provided whereby a customer purchases both natural gas commodity supply and transportation from the NW Natural Gas business |
| SiEnergy | SiEnergy Operating, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Northwest Natural Holding Company |
| SEC | U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission |
| SOFR | Secured Overnight Financing Rate |
| SRRM | Site Remediation and Recovery Mechanism, a billing rate mechanism for recovering prudently incurred environmental site remediation costs allocable to Oregon through NW Natural Gas customer billings, subject to an earnings test |
| Therm | The basic unit of natural gas measurement, equal to one hundred thousand British thermal units |
| Transportation Service | Service provided whereby a customer purchases natural gas directly from a supplier but pays the utility to transport the gas over its distribution system to the customer's facility |

---

------

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| TSA | Transportation Security Administration |
| U.S. GAAP | Accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America |
| WARM | An Oregon billing rate mechanism applied to natural gas residential and commercial customers to adjust for temperature variances from average weather |
| WUTC | Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission, the entity that regulates our Washington natural gas and regulated water businesses with respect to rates and terms of service, among other matters |

---

***FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS***

• plans, projections and predictions;

• objectives, goals, visions or strategies;

• assumptions, generalizations and estimates;

• ongoing continuation of past practices or patterns;

• future events or performance;

• trends;

• risks;

• uncertainties;

• timing and cyclicality;

• economic conditions, including impacts of inflation and interest rates, recessionary risk, tariffs and trade restrictions and general economic uncertainty;

• earnings and dividends;

• capital expenditures and allocation;

• capital markets or access to capital;

• capital or organizational structure;

• matters related to climate change, GHG emissions reduction and our role in decarbonization or a lower-carbon future;

• renewable natural gas, environmental attributes related thereto, and hydrogen;

• the policies, priorities and actions of the current presidential administration and U.S. Congress;

• growth;

• customer rates;

• labor relations and workforce succession;

• commodity costs;

• desirability and competitiveness of natural gas;

• gas reserves;

• operational performance and costs;

• energy policy, infrastructure and preferences;

• public policy approach and involvement;

• efficacy of derivatives and hedges;

• liquidity, financial positions, and planned securities issuances;

• valuations;

• project and program development, expansion, or investment, including at our North Mist gas storage facility;

• business development efforts, including new business lines, business development, and acquisitions and integration thereof;

• implementation and execution of our water strategy;

• pipeline capacity, demand, location, and reliability;

• adequacy of property rights and operations center development;

• technology implementation and cybersecurity practices, including related to the advancement of artificial intelligence;

• competition;

• procurement and development of gas (including renewable natural gas) and water supplies;

• estimated expenditures, supply chain and third party availability and impairment;

• supply chain disruptions;

• costs of compliance, and our ability to include those costs in rates;

• customers bypassing our infrastructure;

• credit exposures and credit ratings or changes in credit ratings;

• uncollectible account amounts;

• rate or regulatory outcomes, recovery or refunds, and the availability of public utility commissions to take action;

• executive orders, laws, rules and regulations, or legal challenges related thereto, including energy climate related legislation;

• tax liabilities or refunds, including effects of tax legislation;

• levels and pricing of gas storage contracts and gas storage markets;

• outcomes, timing and effects of potential claims, litigation, regulatory actions, and other administrative matters;

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• projected obligations, expectations and treatment with respect to, and the impact of new legislation on, retirement plans;

• international, federal, state, and local efforts to regulate, in a variety of ways, greenhouse gas emissions, and the effects of those efforts;

• geopolitical factors, including the ongoing conflicts in Europe and the Middle East;

• availability, adequacy, and shift in mix of gas and water supplies;

• effects of new or anticipated changes in critical accounting policies or estimates;

• approval and adequacy of regulatory deferrals;

• effects and efficacy of regulatory mechanisms; and

• environmental, regulatory, litigation and insurance costs and recoveries, and timing thereof.

Forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and assumptions regarding our business, the economy, and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks, and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict. Our actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. We therefore caution you against relying on any of these forward-looking statements. They are neither statements of historical fact nor guarantees or assurances of future performance. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements are discussed at Item 1A "*Risk Factors*" of Part I and Item 7 and Item 7A, "*Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations*" and "*Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk*", respectively, of Part II of this report.

Any forward-looking statement made in this report speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

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PART I

FILING FORMAT

This annual report on Form 10-K is a combined report being filed by two separate registrants: Northwest Natural Holding Company (NW Holdings), and Northwest Natural Gas Company (NW Natural). Except where the content clearly indicates otherwise, any reference in the report to "we," "us" or "our" is to the consolidated entity of NW Holdings and all of its subsidiaries, including NW Natural, which is a distinct SEC registrant that is a wholly-owned subsidiary of NW Holdings. Each of NW Holdings' subsidiaries is a separate legal entity with its own assets and liabilities. Information contained herein relating to any individual registrant or its subsidiaries is filed by such registrant on its own behalf. Each registrant makes representations only as to itself and its subsidiaries and makes no other representation whatsoever as to any other company.

Item 8 in this Annual Report on Form 10-K includes separate financial statements (i.e. balance sheets, statements of comprehensive income, statements of cash flows, and statements of equity) for NW Holdings and NW Natural, in that order. References in this discussion to the "Notes" are to the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of this report. The Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements are presented on a combined basis for both entities except where expressly noted otherwise. All Items other than Item 8 are combined for the reporting companies.

ITEM 1. BUSINESS

***OVERVIEW***

NW Holdings is a holding company headquartered in Portland, Oregon and owns NW Natural, SiEnergy Operating, LLC (SiEnergy Gas Utility or SiEnergy), NW Natural Water Company, LLC (NWN Water Utility or NWN Water), and NW Natural Renewables Holdings, LLC (NWN Renewables).

NW Natural distributes natural gas to residential, commercial, and industrial customers in Oregon and southwest Washington. NW Natural and its predecessors have supplied gas service to the public since 1859, was incorporated in Oregon in 1910, and began doing business as NW Natural in 1997. Prior to the first quarter of 2025, NW Natural's natural gas distribution activities were reported in the natural gas distribution (NGD) segment. All other business activities, including certain gas storage activities, water and wastewater businesses, non-regulated renewable natural gas activities and other investments and activities are aggregated and reported as "other" at their respective registrant.

SiEnergy owns and operates SiEnergy Holdings, which includes SiEnergy Gas and Terra Transmission, a gas distribution and a transmission utility, respectively, and provides gas distribution and transmission to customers in Texas.

NWN Water provides regulated water and wastewater services and unregulated wastewater and operations services to customers in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Arizona, and Texas.

NWN Renewables is a non-regulated business established to pursue non-regulated renewable natural gas activities.

During the first quarter of 2025, we evaluated the reportable business segments of NW Holdings and concluded that SiEnergy and NWN Water were also reportable business segments. In addition, the NGD segment was renamed to NWN Gas Utility. NW Holdings primarily operates in three reportable business segments, which are NWN Gas Utility, SiEnergy, and NWN Water. NW Natural primarily operates in one reportable business segment, which is NWN Gas Utility. NW Holdings and NW Natural also have investments and business activities not specifically related to the NWN Gas Utility, SiEnergy, and NWN Water segments, which are aggregated and reported as NW Holdings Other.

Our mission is to provide safe, reliable and affordable utility services and renewable energy in a sustainable way to better the lives of the communities we serve. We support our mission by following our core values of service ethic, integrity, safety, caring, and environmental stewardship.

***SEGMENT INFORMATION***

**<u>NWN Gas Utility</u>**

NW Natural operates a regulated gas distribution utility servicing customers through approximately 810,000 meters in Oregon and southwest Washington. Approximately 88% of customers are located in Oregon and 12% are located in southwest Washington.

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NW Natural has been allocated an exclusive service territory by the Oregon Public Utility Commission (OPUC) and Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC), which includes the major population centers in western Oregon, including the Portland metropolitan area, most of the Willamette Valley, the Coastal area from Astoria to Coos Bay, and portions of Washington along the Columbia River. Major businesses located in NW Natural's service territory include retail, manufacturing, and high-technology industries.

<u>Customers</u>

The NWN Gas Utility business serves residential, commercial, and industrial customers with no individual customer accounting for more than 10% of NW Natural's or NW Holdings' revenues. On an annual basis, residential and commercial customers typically account for approximately 60% of NWN Gas Utility volumes delivered and approximately 91% of NWN Gas Utility margin. Industrial customers largely account for the remaining volumes and margin.

The following table presents summary meter information for the NWN Gas Utility segment as of December 31, 2025:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | Number of Meters | % of Volumes | % of Margin |
| Residential | 739337 | 37% | 66% |
| Commercial | 69214 | 23% | 25% |
| Industrial | 1046 | 40% | 5% |
| Other<sup>(1)</sup> | N/A | N/A | 4% |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | 809597 | 100% | 100% |

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<sup>(1) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>NWN Gas Utility margin is also affected by other items, including miscellaneous revenues, gains or losses from NW Natural's gas cost incentive sharing mechanism, other margin adjustments, and other regulated services.

Generally, residential and commercial customers purchase both their natural gas commodity (gas sales) and natural gas delivery services from the NWN Gas Utility business. Industrial and some large commercial customers also purchase the gas commodity either from NW Natural or directly from a third-party gas marketer or supplier. Gas commodity cost is primarily a pass-through cost to customers; therefore, profit margins are not significantly affected by an industrial customer's decision to purchase gas from NW Natural or from third parties. Industrial and large commercial customers may also select between firm and interruptible service levels, with firm services generally providing higher profit margins compared to interruptible services.

To help manage gas supplies, tariffs are designed to provide some certainty regarding industrial and commercial customers' volumes by requiring an annual service election, special rates or possible restrictions for changes between elections.

We estimate natural gas was in approximately 64% of single-family residential homes in NW Natural's service territory in 2025. Customer growth in our region comes mainly from the following sources: single-family housing, both new construction and conversions; multifamily housing new construction; and commercial buildings, both new construction and conversions. Single-family new construction has consistently been our largest source of growth. Continued customer growth is closely tied to consumer preference for natural gas, the comparative price of natural gas to electricity and fuel oil, regulations and building codes permitting the use of natural gas in new construction and conversions, and the economic health of our service territory.

<u>Competitive Conditions</u>

In its service areas, the NWN Gas Utility business has no direct competition from other natural gas distributors. However, it competes with other forms of energy in each customer class. This competition among energy suppliers is based on price, efficiency, reliability, performance, preference, perceptions, market conditions, building codes, technology, federal, state, and local energy policy, and environmental impacts.

For residential and small to mid-size commercial customers, the NWN Gas Utility business competes primarily with providers of electricity, fuel oil, and propane.

In the industrial and large commercial markets, the NWN Gas Utility business competes with all forms of energy, including competition from wholesale natural gas marketers. In addition, large industrial customers could bypass NW Natural's natural gas distribution system by installing their own direct pipeline connection to the interstate pipeline system. NW Natural has designed custom transportation service agreements with several large industrial customers to provide transportation service rates that are competitive with the customer's costs of installing their own pipeline.

<u>Seasonality of Business</u>

The NWN Gas Utility business is seasonal in nature due to higher gas usage by residential and commercial customers during the cold winter heating months. Other categories of customers experience similar seasonality in their usage but to a lesser extent.

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<u>Regulation and Rates</u>

The NWN Gas Utility business is subject to regulation by the OPUC and WUTC. These regulatory agencies authorize rates and allow recovery mechanisms to provide the opportunity to recover prudently incurred capital and operating costs from customers, while also earning a reasonable return on investment for investors. In addition, the OPUC and WUTC also regulate the system of accounts and issuance of securities by NW Natural.

NW Natural files general rate cases and rate tariff requests periodically with the OPUC and WUTC to establish approved rates, an authorized return on equity (ROE), an overall rate of return (ROR) on rate base, an authorized capital structure, and other revenue/cost deferral and recovery mechanisms.

NW Natural is also regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Under NW Natural's Mist interstate storage certificate with FERC, NW Natural is required to file either a petition for rate approval or a cost and revenue study every five years to change or justify maintaining the existing rates for the interstate storage service.

For further discussion on our most recent general rate cases, see Part II, Item 7, "Results of Operations—Regulatory Matters—*Regulation and Rates*."

<u>Gas Supply</u>

NW Natural strives to secure sufficient, reliable supplies of natural gas to meet the needs of customers at the lowest reasonable cost, while maintaining price stability, managing gas purchase costs prudently and supporting our core value of environmental stewardship. This is accomplished through a comprehensive strategy focused on the following items:

• **Reliability** - ensuring gas resource portfolios are sufficient to satisfy customer requirements under extreme cold weather conditions;

• **Diverse Supply** - providing diversity of supply sources;

• **Diverse Contracts** - maintaining a variety of contract durations, types, and counterparties;

• **Cost Management and Recovery** - employing prudent gas cost management strategies; and

• **Environmental Stewardship** - striving to reduce the carbon content and environmental impacts of the energy we deliver.

<u>Reliability</u>

To support system reliability, the NWN Gas Utility business has developed a risk-based methodology in which it uses a planning standard to serve the highest firm sales demand day in any year with 99% certainty.

The projected maximum design day firm NWN Gas Utility customer sales is approximately 10 million therms. Of this total, the NWN Gas Utility business is currently capable of meeting approximately 57% of the requirements with gas from storage located within or adjacent to its service territory, while the remaining supply requirements would come from gas purchases under firm gas purchase contracts and recall agreements.

NW Natural segments transportation capacity, which is a natural gas transportation mechanism under which a shipper can leverage its firm pipeline transportation capacity by separating it into multiple segments with alternate delivery routes. The reliability of service on these alternate routes will vary depending on the constraints of the pipeline system. For those segments with acceptable reliability, segmentation provides a shipper with increased flexibility and potential cost savings compared to traditional pipeline service. The NWN Gas Utility business relies on segmentation of firm pipeline transportation capacity that flows from Stanfield, Oregon to various points south of Molalla, Oregon.

We believe gas supplies would be sufficient to meet existing NWN Gas Utility firm customer demand in the event of maximum design day weather conditions.

The following table shows the sources of supply projected to be used to satisfy the design day sales for the 2025-26 winter heating season:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| *Therms in millions* | Therms | Percent |
| Sources of NWN Gas Utility supply: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Firm supply purchases | 3.4 | 34% |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mist underground storage (NWN Gas Utility only) | 3.4 | 34% |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Company-owned LNG storage | 1.8 | 18% |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pipeline segmentation capacity | 0.6 | 6% |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Off-system storage contract | 0.5 | 5% |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Recall agreements | 0.3 | 3% |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | 10.0 | 100% |

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The OPUC and WUTC have Integrated Resource Planning (IRP) processes in which utilities define different future scenarios and corresponding resource and compliance strategies in an effort to evaluate supply and demand resource and compliance

------

requirements, consider uncertainties in the planning process and the need for flexibility to respond to changes, and establish a plan for providing reliable service while meeting carbon compliance obligations within frameworks that emphasize least cost and risk.

NW Natural generally files a full IRP biennially for Oregon and Washington with the OPUC and the WUTC, respectively, and files updates in Oregon between filings. The OPUC acknowledges NW Natural's action plan, whereas the WUTC provides notice that the IRP has met the requirements of the Washington Administrative Code. OPUC acknowledgment of the IRP does not constitute ratemaking approval of any specific resource acquisition strategy or expenditure. For additional information see Part II, Item 7, "Results of Operations—*Regulatory Matters*."

<u>Diversity of Supply Sources</u> 

NW Natural purchases gas supplies primarily from the Alberta and British Columbia provinces of Canada and multiple receipt points in the U.S. Rocky Mountains to protect against regional supply disruptions and to take advantage of price differentials. For 2025, approximately 60% of gas supply came from Canada, with the balance primarily coming from the U.S. Rocky Mountain region. We believe gas supplies available in the western United States and Canada are adequate to serve NWN Gas Utility customer requirements for the foreseeable future. NW Natural continues to evaluate the long-term supply mix based on projections of gas production and pricing in the U.S. Rocky Mountain region as well as other regions in North America.

NW Natural supplements firm gas supply purchases with gas withdrawals from gas storage facilities, including underground reservoirs and LNG storage facilities. Storage facilities are generally injected with natural gas during the off-peak months in the spring and summer, and the gas is withdrawn for use during peak demand months in the winter.

The following table presents the storage facilities available for NWN Gas Utility business supply:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | Maximum Daily Deliverability (therms in millions) | Designed Storage<br>Capacity (Bcf) |
| Gas Storage Facilities |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Owned Facility |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mist, Oregon (Mist Facility)<sup>(1)</sup> | 3.4 | 13.1 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mist, Oregon (North Mist Facility)<sup>(2)</sup> | 1.3 | 4.1 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Contracted Facility |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jackson Prairie, Washington<sup>(3)</sup> | 0.5 | 1.1 |
| LNG Facilities |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Owned Facilities |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newport, Oregon | 0.8 | 1.0 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Portland, Oregon | 1.0 | 0.6 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | 7.0 | 19.9 |

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<sup>(1) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>The Mist gas storage facility has a total maximum daily deliverability of 5.3 million therms and a total designed storage capacity of about 17.5 Bcf, of which 3.4 million therms of daily deliverability and 13.1 Bcf of storage capacity are reserved for NWN Gas Utility business customers.

<sup>(2) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>The North Mist facility is contracted to exclusively serve Portland General Electric, a local electric utility, and is not used to serve other NWN Gas Utility customers. See "*North Mist Gas Storage Facility*" below for more information.

<sup>(3) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>The storage facility is located near Chehalis, Washington and is contracted from Northwest Pipeline, a subsidiary of The Williams Companies.

The Mist facility serves NWN Gas Utility segment customers and is also used for non-NWN Gas Utility purposes, primarily for contracts with gas storage customers, including utilities, and third-party marketers. Under regulatory agreements with the OPUC and WUTC, gas storage at Mist can be developed in advance of NWN Gas Utility customer needs but is subject to recall when needed to serve such customers as their demand increases. When storage capacity is recalled for NWN Gas Utility purposes it becomes part of the NWN Gas Utility segment. As of May 1, 2025, 0.2 million therms per day of deliverability and 0.3 Bcf of associated non-utility Mist gas storage capacity was recalled to serve core customers. Customer rate increases related to this recall began for Oregon customers on October 31, 2025, and November 1, 2025 for Washington customers..

<u>Diverse Contract Durations and Types</u>

NW Natural has a diverse portfolio of short-, medium-, and long-term firm gas supply contracts and a variety of contract types including firm and interruptible supplies as well as supplemental supplies from gas storage facilities.

The majority of our gas supply contracts include year-round, winter-only, summer-only, and monthly baseload supplies, and daily spot purchases. We also maintain options to call on additional daily supplies during the winter heating season.

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During 2025, a total of 784 million therms were purchased under contracts with durations as follows:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| Contract Duration (primary term) | Percent of Purchases |
| Long-term (one year or longer) | 40% |
| Short-term (more than one month, less than one year) | 41 |
| Spot (one month or less) | 19 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | 100% |

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During 2025, there was no individual supplier that provided 10% or more of the NWN Gas Utility business gas supply requirements.

<u>Gas Cost Management</u>

The cost of gas sold to NWN Gas Utility customers primarily consists of the following items, which are included in annual Purchased Gas Adjustment (PGA) rates: gas purchases from suppliers; charges from pipeline companies to transport gas to our distribution system; gas storage costs; gas reserves costs; gas commodity derivative contracts; and renewable natural gas and its attributes, including renewable thermal certificates. Costs to comply with Washington's Climate Commitment Act (CCA) are included in the cost of gas for Washington customers. We expect costs to comply with Oregon's Climate Protection Program (CPP) and any similar program that may be enacted in our service territory will also be included in the cost of gas.

The NWN Gas Utility business employs a number of strategies to mitigate the cost of gas sold to customers. The primary strategies for managing gas commodity price risk include:

• negotiating fixed prices directly with gas suppliers;

• negotiating financial derivative contracts that: (1) effectively convert floating index prices in physical gas supply contracts to fixed prices (referred to as commodity price swaps); or (2) effectively set a ceiling or floor price, or both, on floating index priced physical supply contracts (referred to as commodity price options such as calls, puts, and collars); and

• buying physical gas supplies at a set price and injecting the gas into storage for price stability and to minimize pipeline capacity demand costs.

NW Natural also contracts with an independent energy marketing company to capture opportunities regarding storage and pipeline capacity when those assets are not serving the needs of NWN Gas Utility business customers. Asset management activities provide opportunities for cost of gas savings for customers and incremental revenues for NW Natural through regulatory incentive-sharing mechanisms. These activities, net of the amount shared, are included in other for segment reporting purposes.

<u>Gas Cost Recovery</u>

Mechanisms for gas cost recovery are designed to be fair and reasonable, with an appropriate balance between the interests of customers and NW Natural. In general, natural gas distribution rates are designed to recover the costs of, but not to earn a return on, the gas commodity sold. Risks associated with gas cost recovery are minimized by resetting customer rates annually through the PGA and aligning customer and shareholder interests through the use of sharing, weather normalization, and conservation mechanisms in Oregon. See Part II, Item 7, "Results of Operations—*Regulatory Matters*".

<u>Environmental Stewardship</u>

Part of our gas supply strategy is working to reduce the carbon content and the environmental impacts of the energy we deliver. To that end, NW Natural developed and implemented an emissions screening tool that uses Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) data to calculate the relative emissions intensity of gas producer operations and prioritize purchases from lower emitting producers. In 2019, we implemented this emissions intensity screening tool alongside other purchasing criteria such as price, credit worthiness and geographic diversity. We view this as a cost-effective way to reduce carbon emissions associated with our natural gas supply.

NW Natural is focused on taking steps to lower emissions on behalf of customers by purchasing environmental attributes that are generated by the production of renewable natural gas (RNG). Under Oregon Senate Bill 98, NW Natural can purchase RNG or invest in RNG facilities, which generate these environmental attributes known as Renewable Thermal Certificates (RTCs). In 2019, the Washington State legislature also passed a bill supporting RNG procurement, House Bill 1257. The RTCs work like renewable energy certificates, or RECs, used in electricity markets. RTCs are verified and certified by the Midwest Renewable Energy Tracking System (M-RETS). The M-RETS Renewable Thermal Tracking System issues one RTC for every dekatherm of RNG injected into the gas system. NW Natural enters into contracts for the purchase of RNG and RTCs either through periodic request for proposals or through formal offerings or informal requests. See Part II, Item 7, "Results of Operations—*Regulatory Matters*".

In addition to purchases of RNG, NW Natural has piloted a hydrogen blend in pipelines serving its Sherwood Operations and Training Center. NW Natural has successfully tested a blend of up to 20% hydrogen. The tests met the safety protocols established by PHMSA Part 192.

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NW Natural is subject to the requirements of the Washington CCA cap-and-invest program, and is also subject to Oregon's CPP. NW Natural has modeled pathways to compliance with the CCA and CPP in its most recent IRP. While costs associated with each possible compliance pathway differ, we are recovering costs associated with compliance with the current CCA and CPP in rates.

<u>Transportation of Gas Supplies</u>

NW Natural's gas distribution system is reliant on a single, bi-directional interstate transmission pipeline to bring gas supplies into the natural gas distribution system. Although dependent on a single pipeline, the pipeline's gas flows into the Portland metropolitan market from two directions: (1) the north, which brings supplies from the British Columbia and Alberta supply basins; and (2) the east, which brings supplies from Alberta as well as the U.S. Rocky Mountain supply basins.

NW Natural incurs monthly demand charges related to firm pipeline transportation contracts. These contracts have expiration dates ranging from 2026 to 2061. The largest pipeline agreements are with Northwest Pipeline. NW Natural actively works with Northwest Pipeline and others to renew contracts in advance of expiration to ensure gas transportation capacity is sufficient to meet customer needs.

Rates for interstate pipeline transportation services are established by FERC within the U.S. and by Canadian authorities for services on Canadian pipelines.

<u>Gas Distribution</u>

Safety and the protection of employees, customers, and our communities are, and will remain, top priorities. NW Natural constructs, operates, and maintains its pipeline distribution system and storage operations with the goal of ensuring natural gas is delivered and stored safely, reliably, and efficiently.

NW Natural has one of the most modern distribution systems in the country with no identified cast iron pipe or bare steel main. Since the 1980s, NW Natural has taken a proactive approach to replacement programs and partnered with the OPUC and WUTC on progressive regulation to further safety and reliability efforts for the distribution system. In the past, NW Natural had a cost recovery program in Oregon that encompassed programs for cast iron replacement, bare steel replacement, transmission integrity management, and distribution integrity management programs as appropriate.

Natural gas distribution businesses are likely to be subject to greater federal and state regulation in the future. Additional operating and safety regulations from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) are currently under development. In January 2025, PHMSA released the final rulemaking: Gas Pipeline Leak Detection and Repair. The rulemaking includes congressional mandates from the PIPES (Protecting our Infrastructure of Pipelines and Enhancing Safety) Act of 2020 to reduce methane emissions from new and existing gas transmission, distribution, gathering, underground storage, and LNG facilities. The unpublished rulemaking was placed on a regulatory freeze by the new presidential administration and is expected to undergo additional review and amendment. In September 2023, PHMSA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking: Safety of Gas Distribution Pipelines and Other Pipeline Safety Initiatives. The proposed rulemaking requires operators to update distribution integrity management programs, emergency response plans, operations and maintenance manuals, and other safety practices. In May 2025, PHMSA published an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) on Repair Criteria for Hazardous Liquid and Gas Transmission Pipelines and proposed amendments to Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) facility safety standards. NW Natural does not foresee a significant impact of these rulemakings on our business given the modern materials used in our system. However, we continue to monitor developments closely, particularly regarding methane reduction requirements, repair criteria, and LNG facility standards, to ensure compliance and maintain safe and reliable operations.

<u>Mist Gas Storage Operations</u> 

The Mist gas storage facility began operations in 1989 and has been expanded twice previously. The first expansion in 2001 (Interstate Storage Facility) and again in 2019 (North Mist Gas Storage Facility). The Mist facility benefits from limited competition as there are few storage facilities in the Pacific Northwest region. Therefore, NW Natural not only serves its core natural gas utility customers, it also has the ability to acquire high-value, multi-year contracts for capacity that is not dedicated to its core customers today. Currently, our Mist Storage Operations has a total of 21.6 Bcf with the following customers:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Gas Utility Storage:** 13.1 Bcf used to provide gas storage for the NWN Gas Utility business and included in the NWN Gas Utility segment.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Interstate Storage:** 4.4 Bcf serving Interstate customers and contracted with other utilities, and third-party marketers with these results reported in other.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **North Mist Storage:** 4.1 Bcf contracted solely to Portland General Electric to fuel its gas-fired electric power generation facilities and included in the NWN Gas Utility segment.

<u>Gas Utility Storage</u>

The overall Gas Utility and Interstate Storage facility with 17.5 Bcf of storage consists of seven depleted natural gas reservoirs, 21 injection and withdrawal wells, a compressor station, injection and withdrawal lines, and other related facilities. Of the 17.5 Bcf storage facility, 13.1 Bcf serves NWN Gas Utility customers. Under regulatory agreements with the OPUC and WUTC, gas storage at Mist can be developed in advance of NWN Gas Utility customer needs but is subject to recall when needed to serve

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such customers as their demand increases. When storage capacity is recalled for NWN Gas Utility purposes it becomes part of the NWN Gas Utility segment. As of May 1, 2025, 0.2 million therms per day of deliverability and 0.3 Bcf of associated non-utility Mist gas storage capacity was recalled to serve core customers. Customer rate increases related to this recall began for Oregon customers on October 31, 2025, and November 1, 2025 for Washington customers.

<u>Interstate Storage Facility</u>

Of the 17.5 Bcf facility, 4.4 Bcf serves Interstate customers. The interstate storage services are offered under a limited jurisdiction blanket certificate issued by FERC. Under NW Natural's interstate storage certificate with FERC, NW Natural is required to file either a petition for rate approval or a cost and revenue study every five years to change or justify maintaining the existing rates for the interstate storage service. Intrastate firm storage services in Oregon are offered under an OPUC-approved rate schedule as an optional service to certain eligible customers.

<u>North Mist Gas Storage Facility</u>

The North Mist gas storage facility began operations in 2019. The North Mist facility provides long-term, no-notice underground gas storage service and is dedicated solely to Portland General Electric (PGE) under a 30-year contract with options to extend up to an additional 50 years upon mutual agreement of the parties. PGE uses the facility to fuel its gas-fired electric power generation facilities.

North Mist includes a reservoir providing 4.1 Bcf of available storage, a compressor station with a contractual capacity of 120,000 dekatherms of gas deliverability per day, no-notice service that can be drawn on rapidly, and a 13-mile pipeline to connect to PGE's Port Westward gas plants in Clatskanie, Oregon.

The facility is included in rate base under an established tariff schedule with revenues recognized consistent with the schedule. Billing rates are updated annually to the forecasted depreciable asset level and forecasted operating expenses.

<u>Mist Additional Expansion Potential</u>

Mist has a number of depleted reservoirs that have not been developed into storage at this time. As a result, NW Natural has additional expansion opportunities in the Mist storage field. To explore our opportunities, we applied for an Energy Facility Siting Council (EFSC) permit and received approval in January 2025. The permit provides flexibility for potential upgrades and expansions. In February 2026, we announced a planned 4-5 Bcf expansion at our North Mist gas storage facility. This expansion is subject to certain conditions including the customers' final approval of project costs and notice to proceed. Storage expansion projects take multiple years to develop and put into service. We have not included any storage expansion costs within our planned capital expenditures outlined in "Financial Conditions – Investing Activities". Any future expansion would be based on market demand, cost effectiveness, available financing, receipt of future permits, and other rights.

**<u>SiEnergy</u>**

SiEnergy owns regulated gas distribution utilities servicing residential and commercial customers through approximately 90,000 meters, primarily in the Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, and Austin, Texas metro and surrounding areas. SiEnergy also serves transmission customers in Dallas/Fort Worth and Austin, Texas metro areas.

Customers within the areas serviced by SiEnergy include residential and commercial. No individual customer accounts for more than 10% of SiEnergy's revenues. During 2025, residential and commercial customers accounted for 88% of SiEnergy's volumes and 93% of margin. Transmission customers represented the remaining volumes and operating revenues.

<u>Development efforts and market demand</u>

Customer growth primarily comes from the following sources: single-family housing, primarily from new construction; multifamily housing new construction; and commercial buildings. Single-family new construction has consistently been SiEnergy's largest source of growth. Continued customer growth is closely tied to significant growth and development in the new construction market.

<u>Competitive conditions</u> 

In its service areas, SiEnergy encounters competition based on preference for natural gas, compared with other energy alternatives and their comparative prices, as well as competition from other natural gas utilities. SiEnergy competes primarily to supply energy for space and water heating, cooking and clothes drying. Significant energy usage competition occurs between natural gas and electricity in the residential and small commercial markets. In Texas, the absence of defined service territories increases competitive intensity, as multiple gas utilities may compete directly to obtain business from developers, builders, and end-use customers. Competition among energy suppliers is based on price, efficiency, reliability, performance, preference, perception, market conditions, technology, federal, state, and local energy policy, and environmental impacts.

Developers and builders typically make the decision on the type of equipment, and therefore the energy source, at initial installation, generally locking in the chosen energy source for the life of the community. Changes in the competitive position of natural gas relative to electricity and other energy alternatives have the potential to cause a decline in consumption of natural gas or in the number of natural gas customers. In Texas, SiEnergy is also subject to competition from other local distribution companies who compete directly for gas sales to end users.

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For residential, commercial, and transmission customers, SiEnergy primarily competes with providers of electricity and other fuel sources.

<u>Seasonality of Business</u> 

SiEnergy's natural gas sales are seasonal in nature due to higher gas usage by residential and commercial customers during the cold winter heating months (November through March). Other categories of customers experience less seasonality in their usage.

<u>Regulation and rates</u> 

Under Texas' regulatory paradigm, original jurisdiction over natural gas distribution rates is shared between the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) and the municipalities where the utility provides service. The RRC has exclusive original jurisdiction over natural gas utility rates in areas outside of municipalities. A municipality has original jurisdiction over the rates, operations and services provided by any gas utility distributing natural gas within city or town limits, unless it has surrendered its original jurisdiction to the RRC. However, any municipal rate decision can be appealed to the RRC, which will conduct its own review, including compiling a new evidentiary record. SiEnergy's last general rate case was settled in 2023 with new rates effective in September 2023.

In certain territories, between rate cases, SiEnergy can adjust rates through annual filings pursuant to the Gas Reliability Infrastructure Program (GRIP) statute. In the most recent rate case in 2023, where the territories were not eligible to file GRIP, the Commission found it reasonable to establish uniform rates for SiEnergy customers based on a system-wide cost of service. In 2025, SiEnergy made annual GRIP filings for the incorporated cities and unincorporated areas in its eligible service area. SiEnergy has suspended changing rates through GRIP until the next rate case.

SiEnergy does not currently have any open or ongoing general rate cases and is continuously evaluating the need for future general rate cases.

In June 2025, Texas House Bill 4384 was signed into law, allowing gas utilities in Texas to defer, and later recover, specific costs related to property, plant and equipment placed in service, but not yet reflected in base rates, including depreciation, ad valorem taxes, and carrying cost. The RRC is required to adopt rules to implement the new law within 270 days of the effective date. SiEnergy applied the new provisions to property, plant and equipment placed in service but not yet reflected in rates in 2025. The impact was not material for 2025.

For further discussion on our most recent general rate case, see Part II, Item 7, "Results of Operations – Regulatory Matters – Regulation and Rates".

<u>Gas Supply</u>

SiEnergy sources its gas supply from producers and processors across Texas, the nation's largest natural gas-producing state, through contracts with a variety of natural gas marketers. SiEnergy maintains a diversified set of pipeline interconnects with both intrastate and interstate systems statewide. Alongside SiEnergy's supply agreements, the Railroad Commission of Texas's Critical Infrastructure Division has standards for the natural gas supply chain during severe weather or emergencies to help ensure reliable upstream gas production and delivery.

Curtailment policies in SiEnergy's tariff prioritize household and critical facility service by allowing the reduction of non-critical industrial and commercial use if needed. A secondary source of supply during an extreme weather event is gas maintained in storage. SiEnergy holds contracts with CNG and LNG virtual pipeline providers for use during force majeure events and extreme weather. With sufficient pipeline reservations and supply contracts in place, SiEnergy does not anticipate issues meeting customer demand.

SiEnergy purchased 2.95 Bcf and 2.26 Bcf of natural gas supply in 2025 and 2024, respectively. These purchases were procured via seven evergreen contracts that span various pipelines and consist of varying terms from a diverse group of suppliers. Natural gas is acquired from natural gas processors, marketers and producers, which mitigates the impact of physical interruptions, natural disasters and unforeseen events on gas supply needed to meet customer demands. In managing natural gas supply portfolios, SiEnergy utilizes a combination of stored natural gas and seasonal reservation changes to reduce customer price volatility.

During 2025, there were five individual suppliers that provided 10% or more of SiEnergy gas supply requirements.

**<u>NWN Water Utility</u>**

NWN Water provides water and wastewater utility services (utility services) through its wholly-owned subsidiaries to approximately 81,000 water and wastewater connections to customers in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Texas, and Arizona. NWN Water also provides operations, maintenance and management services (contract services) to water and wastewater system owners serving approximately 38,000 connections in Oregon, Washington, and California.

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During 2025, utility services accounted for 87% of NWN Water's operating revenues. Public Utility Commission regulated utilities accounted for 64% of operating revenues, and an additional 23% of operating revenues come from water and wastewater utility services where NWN Water is the sole provider. Contract services account for the remainder. No individual customer accounts for more than 10% of NWN Water's revenue.

Customers in the areas serviced by NWN Water utility service and contract service businesses include residential, commercial, irrigation, and fire protection users. Residential and commercial customers make up the majority of the utility services business.

<u>Development efforts and market demand</u>

Historically, NWN Water has grown primarily through acquisitions of existing businesses. While we may pursue new strategic acquisitions or joint ventures in the future, our current strategy emphasizes organic growth, including expanding our existing water and wastewater service areas (including through exclusive agreements for new developments) and expanding our contract services model.

Outside of growth through acquisitions, customer growth primarily comes from the following sources: single-family housing, primarily from new construction; multifamily housing new construction; and commercial building new construction. Single-family and multi-family housing new construction has consistently been our largest source of non-acquisition related growth.

<u>Competitive conditions</u> 

NWN Water regulated utilities have no direct competition from other water providers because they operate in service areas pursuant to franchises, charters, certificates of public convenience and necessity or similar authorizations issued by state utility commissions. Our utilities that are not regulated by state utility commissions are regulated by other state and local agencies (such as a department of environmental quality), which, in some cases, provide us exclusive service areas and, in many cases, create a barrier to market entry. NWN Water faces competition when purchasing water rights, pursuing exclusive service rights for new developments, and executing strategic acquisitions. Competition in contract services comes primarily from other contract service companies that provide the same type of operations, maintenance and management services.

<u>Sources</u>

The NWN Water utility services business generally own the physical assets used to source, store, pump, treat and deliver water to its customers and collect, treat, and dispose of wastewater from its customers. Generally, water utility operations obtain water supply from wells or surface water sources. Our water operations are primarily self-supplied. An immaterial portion of our water supply is purchased from other water suppliers.

We continuously monitor demands against the capacity of our supply and believe water supply is sufficient to meet the requirements of our customers. For areas that require water rights to acquire water supply, we believe that we have sufficient water rights or ability to purchase more to meet our demands.

Drought, governmental restrictions, overuse of sources of water, the protection of threatened species or habitats, contamination or other factors may limit the availability of ground and surface water. If any of the foregoing occur, our revenues and net income may be adversely affected. There have not been any supply restrictions that have materially impacted our business in the last year.

We believe our wastewater treatment facilities are generally sufficient to meet the requirements of our customers. Most of our wastewater is treated at our own facilities. We obtain and maintain appropriate permitting for our wastewater treatment facilities.

<u>Regulation and Rates</u> 

The wholly-owned regulated water businesses of NWN Water are subject to regulation by the utility commissions in the states in which they are located, which currently includes Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Idaho, and Texas. In addition, NWN Water includes wholly-owned unregulated wastewater businesses in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho.

For further discussion on our most recent general rate cases, see Part II, Item 7, "Results of Operations – Regulatory Matters – Regulation and Rates".

Water and wastewater operations are subject to extensive federal, state, and local regulations governing environmental protection, health and safety, water quality, and the collection, treatment, discharge, recycling, and disposal of wastewater. Key federal laws include the Safe Drinking Water Act, the Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act, and the Clean Water Act, along with various state and local requirements that may be more stringent. NWN Water is also regulated in the storage of hazardous materials, the management and disposal of hazardous and solid waste, and discharges to air and water. In addition, state public utility commissions set standards and conditions for the water and wastewater services the Company provides.

<u>Seasonality</u>

Water usage per customer varies throughout the year based largely on local weather patterns. Demand typically rises from May to September, when customers engage in greater irrigation usage. As a result, the largest share of operating revenues typically occur during the second and third quarters of the year. Extended dry conditions during these periods increase consumption, and warmer temperatures contribute to higher water usage. In certain circumstances, prolonged dry weather in our services areas

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could prompt governmental agencies to issue drought advisories or implement water-use restrictions, which would reduce customer usage during those periods. Our wastewater and services businesses do not experience significant seasonality.

***OTHER*** 

Certain businesses and activities of NW Holdings and NW Natural are aggregated and reported as other for segment reporting purposes.

**<u>NW Natural</u>**

The following businesses and activities are aggregated and reported as other under NW Natural, a wholly-owned subsidiary of NW Holdings:

• Interstate storage;

• natural gas asset management activities; and

• appliance retail center operations.

See "Interstate Storage Facility" section above in our descriptions of Mist Gas Storage Operations. The financial results of this business are included in NW Natural Other.

<u>Asset Management Activities</u>

NW Natural contracts with an independent energy marketing company to provide asset management services, primarily through the use of natural gas commodity exchange agreements and natural gas pipeline capacity release transactions. The results of these activities are included in other, except for the asset management revenues allocated to NWN Gas Utility business customers pursuant to regulatory agreements, which are reported in the NWN Gas Utility segment.

**<u>NW Holdings</u>**

These include the following businesses and activities aggregated under NW Holdings:

• NW Natural Renewables Holdings, LLC and its non-regulated renewable natural gas activities;

• a minority interest in the Kelso-Beaver Pipeline held by NW Holdings' wholly-owned subsidiary NNG Financial Corporation (NNG Financial); and

• holding company and corporate activities, including business development activities, as well as adjustments made in consolidation.

<u>NWN Renewables</u>

NWN Renewables is an unregulated subsidiary of NW Natural Holdings established to pursue unregulated RNG activities. Ohio Renewables, a subsidiary of NWN Renewables, has agreements with a subsidiary of EDL, a global producer of sustainable distributed energy, to secure RNG supply from two EDL facilities that convert landfill waste gases to RNG (EDL Facilities). Ohio Renewables paid $51.4 million to the EDL subsidiaries in 2024 on the completion of the production facilities. RNG production from the facilities began in 2024.

Alongside these development agreements, Ohio Renewables and the subsidiary of EDL executed agreements for Ohio Renewables to purchase up to an annual specified amount of RNG produced by the EDL Facilities over a 20-year period at a contractually specified price. In December 2025, Ohio Renewables contracted to purchase additional RNG volumes produced by the EDL Facilities from a separate investment-grade counterparty for up to certain specified amounts in each of the calendar years from 2026 to 2036. Contracted purchase volumes are based on the EDL Facilities' production volumes set at contractually specified prices. Ohio Renewables has contracted to sell the supply obtained from the EDL Facilities at primarily fixed prices to investment grade counterparties.

Ohio Renewables has contracted to sell some of the RNG produced by the EDL Facilities up to certain specified volumes in each of the calendar years 2024 through 2026 to an investment-grade counterparty. We currently estimate RNG volumes to be sold pursuant to this agreement to be approximately 2,370,000 MMbtu over the life of the agreement, provided that such amounts of RNG are produced by the EDL Facilities during that period.

Ohio Renewables additionally has contracted to sell a fixed-volume of RNG under a long-term agreement with an investment-grade utility beginning in 2025 and extending through 2044. Amounts to be delivered under this agreement are estimated to be 375,000 MMbtu in 2026, 1,950,000 MMbtu annually in 2027 through 2030, and 2,325,000 MMbtu annually in years 2031 through 2034 and 2,775,000 MMbtu annually in years 2035 through 2043 and 1,513,770 MMbtu in 2044.Under the current contract, if less than 75% of the contracted volumes of RNG are delivered annually, Ohio Renewables is obligated to pay the per MMbtu price for volumes between the amount delivered and 75% of the contracted volumes on an annual basis.

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***ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS***

**<u>Properties and Facilities</u>** 

NW Natural owns, or previously owned, properties and facilities that are currently being investigated that may require environmental remediation and are subject to federal, state, and local laws and regulations related to environmental matters. These laws and regulations may require expenditures over a long time frame to address certain environmental impacts. Estimates of liabilities for environmental costs are difficult to determine with precision because of the various factors that can affect their ultimate disposition. These factors include, but are not limited to, the following:

• the complexity of the site;

• changes in environmental laws and regulations at the federal, state, and local levels;

• the number of regulatory agencies or other parties involved;

• new technology that renders previous technology obsolete, or experience with existing technology that proves ineffective;

• the level of remediation required;

• variations between the estimated and actual period of time that must be dedicated to respond to an environmentally-contaminated site; and

• the application of environmental laws that impose joint and several liabilities on all potentially responsible parties.

NW Natural has received recovery of a portion of such environmental costs through insurance proceeds, seeks the remainder of such costs through customer rates, and believes recovery of these costs is probable. In both Oregon and Washington, NW Natural has mechanisms to recover expenses. Oregon recoveries are subject to an earnings test. See Part II, Item 7, "Results of Operations—Regulatory Matters—Rate Mechanisms—*Environmental Cost Deferral and Recovery*", and Note 2 and Note 17 to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of this report for more information.

**<u>Greenhouse Gas Matters</u>**

For information concerning greenhouse gas matters, see Part II, Item 7, "Results of Operations—Environmental Regulation and Legislation Matters."

***HUMAN CAPITAL***

Our core values of integrity, safety, caring, service ethic, and environmental stewardship guide how we engage with customers, stakeholders, shareholders, and communities. We actively work to foster these values in our employee culture and to nurture an inclusive and equitable environment that provides opportunities, prioritizes health and safety, encourages respect and trust, and supports growth and learning. We aim to recruit and retain employees who share our core values and reﬂect our communities.

**<u>Employees</u>**

At December 31, 2025, our workforce consisted of the following:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| NW Natural: |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Unionized employees<sup>(1)</sup>  | 638 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Non-unionized employees | 660 |
| Total NW Natural | 1298 |
| Other Entities: |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;SiEnergy employees | 134 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Water and wastewater company employees | 184 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other | 3 |
| Total other entities | 321 |
| Total Employees | 1619 |

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<sup>(1) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>Members of the Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU) Local No. 11, AFL-CIO.

NW Natural's labor agreement with members of OPEIU covers wages, benefits, and working conditions. In May 2024, NW Natural's unionized employees ratified a collective bargaining agreement that is in effect June 1, 2024 through May 31, 2028, and is effective thereafter from year to year unless either party serves notice of its intent to negotiate modifications to the collective bargaining agreement. The terms of the collective bargaining agreement include the following items: a 6% wage increase effective June 1, 2024 and scheduled wage increases effective December 1 in the first year and each subsequent year of 4%; a 401(k) contribution of 4% for employees hired after our pension plan was closed on December 31, 2009; and a 401(k) match of 50% of the first 8% of savings. During calendar year 2025, NW Natural did not incur any work stoppages (strikes or lockouts), and therefore, experienced zero idle days for the year.

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Certain subsidiaries may receive services from employees of other subsidiaries. Those services are generally charged to the entity receiving those services. When such services involve regulated entities, those entities receiving services are generally charged rates pursuant to shared services agreements that are filed with the applicable state regulatory commission, as applicable.

**<u>Safety</u>**

Safety is one of our greatest responsibilities to employees. In managing the business, we strive to foster a safety culture focused on prevention, open communication, collaboration, and a strong service and safety ethic. We believe employee safety is critical to our success. A portion of executives' compensation is tied to achieving our identified safety metrics, and our Board of Directors regularly reviews company safety metrics and receives reports on matters of health and safety. NW Natural and NW Holdings' subsidiaries health and safety policies and procedures are designed to comply with applicable regulations, but we also work to go beyond compliance by striving to incorporate information we learn from benchmarking, peer reviews, and industry best practices.

As part of our commitment to employee health and safety, we maintain regular training programs, emergency preparedness procedures, and training and procedures to identify hazards and handle high-risk emergency situations. Employees complete classroom instruction and hands-on, scenario-based training at our training town facility in Oregon that allows employees to experience realistic situations in a controlled environment. We also host natural gas safety training events for ﬁrst responders, which are designed to prepare those first responders and NW Natural field employees to deliver an integrated, seamless response in the event of an emergency that involves or affects the natural gas system. We also have a learning management system that provides virtual training options and more efficiency and flexibility in how we train.

**<u>Employee Benefits and Support</u>**

To attract employees and meet the needs of our workforce, NW Natural and NW Holdings' subsidiaries strive to offer competitive compensation and benefits packages to employees. The benefits package options vary depending on type of employee and date of hire. NW Holdings and NW Natural continuously look for ways to support employees' work-life balance and well-being and this is reflected in physical, mental and financial wellness programs to meet the needs of our employees and help them care for their families. Benefits available to employees during 2025 included, among others: healthcare and other insurance coverages, wellness resources, retirement and savings plans, paid time off programs, and flexible and hybrid work schedules, where possible, employee resource groups, and culture and community-focused resources and opportunities, and employee recognition programs and discounts.

**<u>Talent Attraction and Development</u>**

In order to implement our business strategy and serve our customers, we depend upon our continuing ability to attract and retain talented professionals and a technically skilled workforce, and being able to transfer the knowledge and expertise of our workforce to new and increasingly diverse employees as our older workforce retires. A significant portion of our workforce is currently eligible or will reach retirement eligibility within the next five years, and therefore, we are focused on efforts to attract, train, and retain appropriately qualified and skilled workers to prevent loss of institutional knowledge or skills gaps.

NW Natural and NW Holdings subsidiaries seek to provide its employees with growth and development opportunities through programs designed to build skills and relationships. These programs currently include: (i) a culturally relevant mentoring program that creates opportunities for career growth by building relationships; (ii) a tuition assistance program for qualified educational pursuits; (iii) an internal class that provides participants with a big-picture understanding of the industry and company operations, equipping them to see how they contribute to NW Natural and NW Holdings' subsidiaries success and identify opportunities for career growth; (iv) internal and external continuing educational courses relevant to areas of expertise; and (v) ongoing management and leadership training programs.

We regularly monitor employee engagement and satisfaction through a variety of tools, including our annual engagement survey that is designed to enable company leaders to gather valuable feedback and guidance from employees.

Creating a diverse and inclusive culture and workforce that reflects and supports the communities we serve contributes to long-term success. Our efforts in recruiting, promoting, and retaining talent with a wide range of backgrounds, building inclusive teams, and creating a culture that embraces differences are elements of our workforce strategy.

***INFORMATION ABOUT OUR EXECUTIVE OFFICERS***

For information concerning executive officers, see Part III, Item 10.

***AVAILABLE INFORMATION***

NW Holdings and NW Natural file annual, quarterly and current reports and other information with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The SEC maintains an Internet site where reports, proxy statements, and other information filed can be read, copied, and requested online at its website (<u>www.sec.gov</u>). In addition, we make available, free of charge, on our website (<u>www.nwnaturalholdings.com</u>), our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K,

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and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) and proxy materials filed under Section 14 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (Exchange Act), as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with, or furnish it to, the SEC. We intend to use our website as a means of disclosing material non-public information and for complying with our disclosure obligations under Regulation FD. Accordingly, investors should monitor our website, in addition to following our press releases, SEC filings and public conference calls and webcasts. We have included our website address as an inactive textual reference only. Information contained on our website is not incorporated by reference into this annual report on Form 10-K.

NW Holdings and NW Natural have adopted a Code of Ethics for all employees, officers, and directors that is available on our website. We intend to disclose revisions and amendments to, and any waivers from, the Code of Ethics for officers and directors on our website. Our Corporate Governance Standards, Director Independence Standards, charters of each of the committees of the Board of Directors, and additional information about NW Holdings and NW Natural are also available at the website. Copies of these documents may be requested, at no cost, by writing or calling Shareholder Services, Northwest Natural Holding Company, 250 S.W. Taylor Street, Portland, Oregon 97204, telephone 503-220-2402.

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

NW Holdings' and NW Natural's business and financial results are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are not within our control, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations. Additional risks and uncertainties that are not currently known to us or that are not currently believed by us to be material may also harm our businesses, financial condition, and results of operations. When considering any investment in NW Holdings' or NW Natural's securities, investors should carefully consider the following information, as well as information contained in the caption "Forward-Looking Statements", Item 7A, and our other documents filed with the SEC. This list is not exhaustive and the order of presentation does not reflect management's determination of priority or likelihood. Additionally, our listing of risk factors that primarily affects one of our businesses does not mean that such risk factor is inapplicable to our other businesses.

**<u>Legal, Regulatory and Legislative Risks</u>**

**REGULATORY RISK.** *Regulation of NW Holdings' and NW Natural's regulated businesses, including changes in the regulatory environment, failure of regulatory authorities to approve rates, or an unfavorable outcome in regulatory proceedings may adversely impact NW Holdings' and NW Natural's financial condition and results of operations.*

The OPUC and WUTC have general regulatory authority over NW Natural's gas business in Oregon and Washington. In January 2025, NW Holdings acquired SiEnergy Operating, LLC (SiEnergy), which has multiple Texas gas utility subsidiaries regulated by the Railroad Commission of Texas. NW Holdings' regulated water utility businesses are generally regulated by the public utility commission in the state in which a water business is located. These public utility commissions have broad regulatory authority, which may include, among other things: the rates charged to customers; authorized rates of return on rate base, including ROE; the amounts and types of securities that may be issued by our regulated utility companies, like NW Natural; services our regulated utility companies provide and the manner in which they provide them; the nature of investments our utility companies make; deferral and recovery of various expenses, including, but not limited to, pipeline replacement, environmental remediation and compliance costs, capital, information technology and other investments, commodity hedging expense, and certain employee benefit expenses such as pension costs; transactions with affiliated interests; regulatory adjustment mechanisms such as weather adjustment mechanisms, and other matters. The OPUC also regulates actions investors may take with respect to NW Natural and NW Holdings. Similarly, FERC has regulatory authority over NW Natural's interstate storage services. Expansion of our businesses generally results in regulation by other regulatory authorities. For example, certain of NW Holdings' water companies are regulated in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Texas and Arizona, and in 2025, we acquired SiEnergy, which has multiple Texas gas utility businesses, each regulated by relevant municipalities as well as the Railroad Commission of Texas.

The costs that are deemed recoverable in rates and prices regulators allow us to charge for regulated utility service, and the maximum FERC-approved rates FERC authorizes us to charge for interstate storage and related transportation services, are the most significant factors affecting both NW Natural's and NW Holdings' financial position, results of operations and liquidity. State utility regulators have the authority to disallow recovery of costs they find imprudently incurred or otherwise disallowable, and rates that regulators allow may be insufficient for recovery of costs we incur. We expect to continue to make expenditures to expand, improve and safely operate our gas and water utility distribution and gas storage systems, and to work toward reducing emissions from our gas systems. Regulators can deny recovery of those costs. Furthermore, while each applicable state regulator has established an authorized rate of return for our regulated utility businesses, we may not be able to achieve the earnings level authorized. Moreover, in the normal course of business we may place assets in service or incur higher than expected levels of operating expense before rate changes become effective to recover those costs (referred to as regulatory lag). The failure of any regulatory commission to approve requested rate increases on a timely basis could adversely impact NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition, results of operations and liquidity. Further, even if rate increases are approved on a timely basis, the regulatory decision can be challenged through a judicial appeal, and adverse outcomes related to challenges could affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition, results of operations and liquidity.

As companies with regulated utility businesses, we frequently have dockets open with our regulators, including NW Natural's general rate case filed with the WUTC in August 2025. The regulatory proceedings for these dockets typically involve multiple

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parties, including governmental agencies, consumer, environmental, and other advocacy groups, and other third parties. Each party advocates for the interests that they represent, which may include lower rates, additional regulatory oversight over the company, limitations on growth or phasing out of the gas system, decisions that favor electrification, or advancing other interests. We cannot predict the timing or outcome of these proceedings, or the effects of those outcomes on NW Holdings' and NW Natural's results of operations and financial condition.

Moreover, legislative changes may affect our regulatory environment. For example, the recently enacted Oregon House Bill 3179 (HB 3179) restricts NW Natural and other utilities from filing a new general rate case within 18 months of the effective date of the last general rate increase. This restriction remains in effect until the earlier of January 2, 2027 or the implementation of OPUC rules for multi-year rate plans. Although NW Natural has filed with the OPUC a request for an alternative rate mechanism to recover certain capital expenditures during this period, the inability to file a general rate case could delay recovery of operating costs or capital expenditures and limit NW Natural's flexibility to respond to changing economic conditions, costs, or regulatory developments, which could adversely affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's liquidity, financial condition or results of operations.

**REGULATION, COMPLIANCE AND TAXING AUTHORITY RISK.** *NW Holdings and NW Natural are subject to governmental regulation, and compliance with local, state and federal requirements, including taxing requirements, and unforeseen changes in or interpretations of such requirements could affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition and results of operations.*

NW Holdings, NW Natural and their subsidiaries are subject to regulation by federal, state and local governmental authorities. We are required to comply with a variety of laws and regulations and to obtain authorizations, permits, approvals and certificates from governmental agencies in various aspects of our business. Significant changes in federal, state, or local governmental leadership can accelerate or amplify changes in existing laws or regulations, or the manner in which they are interpreted or enforced. For instance, the 2024 United States Presidential election has resulted in and may result in further leadership changes in many federal administrative agencies. Moreover, the 2024 election has resulted in in a wide range of new policies, executive orders, rules, initiatives and other changes to fiscal, tax, regulation, trade, environmental, climate and other federal policies, many of which have components that affect the energy and utilities sectors. Similarly, we could continue to face significant legislative, regulatory and other policy changes at the state level or in the local jurisdictions in which we operate. For example, in 2025, Oregon adopted legislation aimed at addressing utility customer rate impacts and utility regulatory oversight, and other jurisdictions may consider similar legislation aimed at addressing affordability going forward. We cannot predict the impact of any such legislation on our rate structure, process or ability to apply regulatory accounting mechanisms. As we continue to expand our businesses into new states, we may be subject to additional legal, regulatory or taxing requirements. For example, certain of NW Holdings' water companies are regulated in Idaho, Texas and Arizona, and in 2025, we expanded our gas business to Texas with the acquisition of SiEnergy. In addition, foreign governments may implement changes to their policies, in response to changes to U.S. policy or otherwise. Although we cannot predict the impact, if any, of these changes to our businesses, they could adversely affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition and results of operations.

We cannot predict changes in laws, regulations, interpretations or enforcement or the impact of such changes. Additionally, any failure to comply with existing or new laws and regulations could result in fines, penalties or injunctive measures. For example, under the Energy Policy Act of 2005, the FERC may assess civil penalties under the Natural Gas Act for violations of FERC's requirements up to approximately $1.6 million per day for each violation. In addition, as we expand our businesses and the regulatory environment for our businesses increases in complexity, the risk of inadvertent noncompliance may also increase. New or amended laws and regulations or failure to comply with such laws or regulations could negatively influence NW Holdings' or NW Natural's operating environment and results of operations. There is uncertainty as to how our regulators will reflect the impact of the legislation and other government regulation in rates. The resulting ratemaking treatment may negatively affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition and results of operations.

Additionally, changes in federal, state, local or foreign tax laws and their related regulations, or differing interpretations or enforcement of applicable law by a federal, state, local or foreign taxing authority, could result in substantial cost to us and negatively affect our results of operations. Tax law and its related regulations and case law are inherently complex and dynamic. Disputes over interpretations of tax laws may be settled with the taxing authority in examination, through programs like the Compliance Assurance Process (CAP), upon appeal or through litigation. Our judgments may include reserves for potential adverse outcomes regarding tax positions that have been or plan to be taken that may be subject to challenge by taxing authorities. Changes in laws, regulations or adverse judgments and the inherent difficulty in quantifying potential tax effects of business decisions may negatively affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition and results of operations.

Furthermore, certain tax assets and liabilities, such as deferred tax assets and regulatory tax assets and liabilities, are recognized or recorded by NW Holdings or NW Natural based on certain assumptions and determinations made based on available evidence, such as projected future taxable income, tax-planning strategies, and results of recent operations. If these assumptions and determinations prove to be incorrect, the recorded results may not be realized, which may negatively impact the financial results of NW Holdings and NW Natural.

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**REPUTATIONAL RISKS.** *To the extent that customers, legislators, or regulators have or develop a negative opinion of our businesses, NW Holdings' and NW Natural's financial position, results of operations and cash flows could be adversely affected.* 

A number of factors can affect customers', legislators', regulators', and other third parties' perception of us or our business including: service interruptions or safety concerns due to failures of equipment or facilities or from other causes, and our ability to promptly respond to such failures; our ability to safeguard sensitive customer information; the timing and magnitude of rate increases; and volatility of rates. Customers', legislators', and regulators' opinions of us can also be affected by media coverage, including social media, which may include information, whether factual or not, that could damage the perception of natural gas, our brand, or our reputation.

Although we believe that natural gas serves an important role in helping our region reduce GHG emissions and move to a more resilient lower-carbon energy system, certain advocacy groups have opposed the use of natural gas as a fuel source altogether and have pursued policies that limit, restrict, or impose additional costs on, the use of natural gas in a variety of contexts. Concerns raised about the use of natural gas include the potential for natural gas explosions or delivery disruptions, methane leakage along production, transportation and delivery systems, and end-use equipment, and contribution of natural gas energy use to GHG emission levels and global warming. Similarly, concerns have also been raised regarding the use of RNG or hydrogen in place of conventional natural gas. In addition, studies and claims by advocacy groups contend that there are detrimental indoor public health effects associated with the use of natural gas, which may also impact public perception. Shifts in public sentiment due to these concerns or others that may be raised may impact further legislative initiatives, regulatory actions, and litigation, as well as behaviors and perceptions of customers, investors, lawmakers, and regulators.

If customers, legislators, regulators, or other third parties have or develop a negative opinion of us and our services, or of natural gas as an energy source generally, this could make it more difficult for us to achieve policy, legislative or regulatory outcomes supportive of our business. Negative opinions could also result in reduced customer growth, sales volumes reductions, increased use of other sources of energy, or difficulties in accessing capital markets. Any of these consequences could adversely affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

**REGULATORY ACCOUNTING RISK.** *In the future, NW Holdings or NW Natural may no longer meet the criteria for continued application of regulatory accounting practices for all or a portion of our regulated operations.*

If we can no longer apply regulatory accounting, we could be required to write off our regulatory assets and be precluded from the future deferral of costs not recovered through rates at the time such amounts are incurred, even if we expect to recover these amounts from customers in the future.

The criteria for the application of regulatory accounting is highly specific, and legislative or regulatory changes to our rate structure or processes could impact our ability to apply regulatory accounting in the future.

**<u>Growth and Strategic Risks</u>**

**STRATEGIC TRANSACTION RISK.** *NW Holdings' and NW Natural's ability to successfully complete strategic transactions is subject to significant risks, which could adversely affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.*

From time to time, NW Holdings and NW Natural have pursued and may continue to pursue strategic transactions including mergers, acquisitions, combinations, divestitures, joint ventures, business development projects or other strategic transactions, including in the gas, water and renewables sectors. For example, in 2025, NW Holdings completed the acquisitions of SiEnergy and Pines Holdings, Inc. (Pines), among others, and while we consider these acquisitions to be an important component of our growth strategy, we may face unexpected costs or challenges associated with integration of the business or otherwise fail to achieve the expected benefits. Any strategic transactions involve substantial risks, including the following:

• such transactions that are contracted for may fail to close for a variety of reasons;

• the result of such transactions may not produce revenues, earnings or cash flow at anticipated levels, which could, among other things, result in the impairment of any investments or goodwill associated with such transactions;

• acquired businesses or assets could have environmental, permitting, or other problems for which contractual protections prove inadequate;

• our forecasts and projections regarding customer and business growth, financial performance, or economic and market conditions may prove to be incorrect;

• there may be difficulties in integration or higher than expected operation costs of new businesses;

• there may exist liabilities (including, legal, tax, environmental, financial or other liabilities) that were not disclosed to us, that exceed our estimates, or for which our rights to indemnification from the seller are limited;

• we may be unable to obtain the necessary regulatory or governmental approvals to close a transaction or receive approvals granted subject to terms that are unacceptable to us;

• we may be unable to achieve the anticipated regulatory treatment of any such transaction as part of the transaction approval or subsequent to closing the transaction; or

• we may be unable to avoid a disposition of assets for a price that is less than the book value of those assets.

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One or more of these risks could affect NW Holdings' and NW Natural's financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.

**BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT RISK.** *NW Holdings' and NW Natural's business development projects may not be successful or may encounter unanticipated obstacles, costs, changes or delays that could result in a project being unsuccessful or becoming impaired, which could negatively impact NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.*

Business development projects involve many risks. We have recently or are currently engaged in several business development projects, including, but not limited to, several gas, gas storage, water, wastewater, water services and RNG projects, non-regulated investments in RNG projects, and purchasing, marketing and reselling of RNG and its associated attributes. We may also engage in other business development projects such as investments in additional long-term gas reserves, gas storage projects, CNG refueling stations, power to gas, power generation, hydrogen projects, carbon capture projects, geothermal projects or other similar projects. For example, we are currently planning an approximately 4-5 Bcf expansion of our North Mist gas storage facility. This expansion is subject to certain conditions including the customers' final approval of project costs and notice to proceed, as well as the receipt of required permits and authorizations. If these approvals are delayed or not obtained, we may not achieve the benefits of the project on our expected timeline or at all. Moreover, all of our business development activities are subject to uncertainties and changed circumstances and may not reach the scale expected, be successful or perform as anticipated. Additionally, we may not be able to obtain required governmental permits and approvals to complete our projects in a cost-efficient or timely manner, potentially resulting in delays or abandonment of the projects. We could also experience issues such as: technological challenges; ineffective scalability; failure to achieve expected outcomes; unsuccessful business models; startup and construction delays; construction cost overruns; challenges in attracting customers or partners or increased competition for new projects; reliance on or inability to direct third parties; disputes with contractors or other third parties; the inability to negotiate acceptable agreements such as rights-of-way, easements, construction, gas supply or other material contracts; failure or delay in receiving applicable permits; changes in customer demand, perception or commitment; public opposition to projects; changes in market conditions; marketing risk and changes in market regulation, behavior or prices, market volatility or unavailability, including markets for RNG and its associated attributes or other environmental attributes; the inability to receive expected tax or regulatory treatment (including any applicable tax incentives or credits for renewable fuels); and operating cost increases. Additionally, we may be unable to finance our business development projects at acceptable costs or within a scheduled time frame necessary for completing the project. Any of the foregoing risks, if realized, could result in business development efforts failing to produce expected financial results and the project investment becoming impaired, and such failure or impairment could have an adverse effect on NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition and results of operations.

**JOINT PARTNER RISK.** *Investing in business development projects through partnerships, joint ventures or other business arrangements affects our ability to manage certain risks and could adversely impact NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.*

We use joint ventures and other business arrangements to manage and diversify the risks of certain development projects and investments, including NW Natural's gas reserves agreements, certain RNG projects, and certain of NW Holdings' subsidiaries' unregulated RNG projects and water platform investments. NW Holdings or NW Natural currently has and may further acquire or develop part-ownership interests in other projects in the future, including but not limited to, natural gas, water, wastewater, water services, renewables or other projects. Under these arrangements, we may not be able to fully direct the management and policies of the business relationships, and other participants in those relationships may act contrary to our interests, including making operational decisions that could negatively affect our costs and liabilities. In addition, other participants may withdraw from the project, divest important assets, become financially distressed or bankrupt, be subject to additional regulatory or legal requirements, or have economic or other business interests or goals that are inconsistent with ours. For example, NW Natural has two investments in RNG development projects that access biogas derived from water treatment at Tyson Foods' processing plants in Nebraska. In November 2025, Tyson Foods announced its intent to end its operations at its Lexington facility, one of these two plants in Nebraska. Although we do not expect the closure to have a material impact on NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition or results of operations, we continue to monitor developments. In addition, we have in the past and may in the future become involved in disputes with our business partners, which could result in additional cost or divert management's attention.

NW Natural's gas reserves arrangements, which operate as a hedge backed by physical gas supplies, involve several risks, including: lower than expected or no gas production volumes; higher than expected operating costs; operational disruptions or a complete shut-in of the field; and one or more participants in one of these gas reserves arrangements becoming financially insolvent or acting contrary to NW Natural's interests. For example, Jonah Energy, the counterparty in NW Natural's gas reserves arrangement, no longer maintains any company credit ratings. While NW Natural monitors Jonah Energy's financial condition and may take appropriate actions to preserve NW Natural's interests, it does not control Jonah Energy's financial condition or continued performance under the gas reserves arrangement. The cost of the original gas reserves venture is currently included in customer rates and additional wells under that arrangement are recovered at specific costs. The occurrence of one or more of these risks could affect NW Natural's ability to recover this hedge in rates. Further, regulators may ultimately determine to not include all or a portion of new gas reserves arrangements or future transactions in rates. The realization of any of these situations could adversely impact NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

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**CUSTOMER GROWTH RISK.** *NW Holdings' and NW Natural's margin, earnings and cash flow may be negatively affected if we are unable to sustain customer growth rates.*

Regional economic conditions, including slower housing market and construction activity across our service territories, may adversely affect our businesses' long-term growth prospects. For example, our gas businesses' margins and earnings growth have largely depended upon the sustained growth of their residential and commercial customer base due, in part, to the new construction housing market, conversions of customers to natural gas from other energy sources and growing commercial use of natural gas. At NW Natural, the company has recently experienced housing starts below historical levels in its service territory, and if such conditions continue, or if similar conditions were to occur broadly across our businesses due to economic conditions, interest rates, or other market factors, our revenue opportunities could be adversely impacted. Prolonged weakness in housing markets or demographic shifts toward areas outside our service territories could further constrain growth and financial performance.

Building codes and other regulations recently enacted and others under consideration in NW Natural's territory have had or may have the effect of reducing our natural gas customer growth rate. While we expect these types of regulations to be subject to legal challenge, we cannot predict the outcome of any such challenge. For example, NW Natural, along with a coalition of other plaintiffs, is currently challenging building codes implemented in Washington that increase the cost of new construction incorporating natural gas. The State of Oregon, and certain other jurisdictions in Oregon and Washington are considering similar measures. Additionally, in connection with the resolution of NW Natural's general rate case, on October 25, 2024, the OPUC issued an order ordering the phase out of NW Natural's line extension allowance by November 1, 2027. Insufficient customer growth, for economic, political, public perception, policy, cost competitiveness or other reasons could adversely affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's utility margin, earnings and cash flows.

**RISK OF COMPETITION.** *Our businesses are subject to competition which could negatively affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's results of operations.*

In the residential and commercial markets, our natural gas distribution businesses compete primarily with suppliers of electricity, fuel oil, and propane. In the industrial market, we compete with suppliers of all forms of energy. Competition among these forms of energy is based on price, efficiency, reliability, performance, market conditions, technology, federal, state and local governmental regulation, actual and perceived environmental impacts, and public perception. Technological developments such as electric heat pumps, batteries or other alternative technologies, or building code or other regulations or restrictions affecting the cost or ability to use certain gas appliances, could erode our competitive advantage. If natural gas prices are high relative to other energy sources, or if the cost, environmental impact or public perception of such other energy sources improves relative to natural gas, it may negatively affect our ability to secure new customers or retain our existing customers, which could have a negative impact on our customer growth rate and NW Holdings' and NW Natural's results of operations.

Our current growth strategy includes pursuing greenfield business development activities, for which we compete with other utilities and service providers for new developments. Competition from incumbent utilities or alternative providers may limit our ability to secure new contracts, or require additional investment or costs to remain competitive. If we are unable to successfully execute our business development strategy or if competitive pressures intensify, our long-term growth prospects, revenue opportunities, and financial performance could be adversely affected.

Our natural gas storage operations compete primarily with other storage facilities and pipelines. Increased competition in the natural gas storage business could reduce the demand for our gas storage services, drive prices down for our storage business, and adversely affect our ability to renew or replace existing contracts at rates sufficient to maintain current revenues and cash flows, which could adversely affect NW Holdings' and NW Natural's financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

**<u>Operational Risks</u>**

**OPERATING RISK.** *Transportation, storage and distribution of gas and liquid fuels, as well as water and wastewater, involves numerous risks that may result in accidents and other operating risks and costs, which may not be fully covered by insurance, and which could adversely affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.*

NW Holdings and NW Natural are subject to all of the risks and hazards inherent in the businesses of gas and liquid transmission, distribution and storage, water distribution, and water and wastewater services including:

• earthquakes, wildfires, floods, storms, freezes, landslides, hurricanes, and other severe weather incidents and natural hazards;

• leaks or losses of gases or liquids, or contamination of gases or liquids by chemicals or compounds, as a result of the malfunction of equipment or facilities or otherwise;

• operator errors or damages from third parties;

• negative performance by our storage reservoirs, facilities, or wells that could cause us to fail to meet expected or forecasted operational levels or contractual commitments to our customers or other third parties;

• problems maintaining, or the malfunction of, pipelines, biodigester facilities, wellbores and related equipment and facilities that form a part of the infrastructure that is critical to the operation of our facilities;

• presence of chemicals or other compounds in the gases or liquids we deliver that could adversely affect the performance of the system or end-use equipment;

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• failure of gas or water storage reservoirs;

• inadequate supplies of RNG, natural gas or water or contamination of water supplies;

• operating costs that are substantially higher than expected;

• higher maintenance costs or service disruption due to the need to replace or repair aging infrastructure;

• failure to secure or maintain necessary rights-of-way, easements, property rights, permits and other rights necessary to operate or business or complete projects;

• supply chain disruptions, including unexpected price increases, or supply restrictions beyond the control of our suppliers;

• migration of gas through faults in the rock or to some area of the reservoir where existing wells cannot drain the gas effectively, resulting in loss of the gas;

• blowouts (uncontrolled escapes of gas from a pipeline or well) or other accidents, fires and explosions; and

• risks and hazards inherent in the drilling operations associated with the development of gas storage facilities, and wells.

For example, TC Pipelines, LP (TC Pipelines) previously identified the presence of a chemical substance, dithiazine, at several facilities on the system of its subsidiary, Gas Transmission Northwest (GTN), and those of some upstream and downstream connecting pipeline facilities. A portion of NW Natural's gas supplies from Canada are transported on GTN's pipelines. TC Pipelines has reported that dithiazine can drop out of gas streams in a powdery form at some points of pressure reduction (for example, at a regulator), and that significant accumulations may impair equipment performance, potentially increasing preventive and corrective maintenance costs. Although NW Natural has not detected significant quantities of dithiazine on its system to date, we continue to monitor for its presence and could in the future identify increased levels of dithiazine or other compounds that may adversely affect system performance or end-use equipment.

These and other operational risks could result in disruption of service, personal injury or loss of human life, damage to and destruction of property and equipment, pollution or other environmental damage, breaches of our contractual commitments, and may result in curtailment or suspension of operations, which in turn could lead to significant costs and lost revenues. Further, because our pipeline, storage and distribution facilities are in or near populated areas any loss of human life or property or adverse financial outcomes resulting from such events could be significant. We could be subject to lawsuits, claims, and criminal and civil enforcement actions. Additionally, we may not be able to maintain desired levels of insurance, and the insurance coverage we do obtain may contain large deductibles or fail to cover certain hazards or cover all potential losses, which could adversely affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

**SAFETY REGULATION RISK.** *NW Holdings and NW Natural may experience increased federal, state and local regulation of the safety of our systems and operations, which could adversely affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's operating costs and financial results.*

Natural gas operators are subject to robust, ongoing federal, state and local regulatory oversight, which intensifies in response to incidents. For example, the 2020 Protecting our Infrastructure of Pipelines and Enhancing Safety Act (PIPES Act) prompted PHSMA to issue three rulemakings impacting transmission lines, gathering lines, and valve automation in response to past incidents in other parts of the country.

In addition, our workplaces are subject to the requirements of the Department of Transportation, through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, as well as state and local statutes and regulations that regulate the protection of the health and safety of workers. The failure to comply with these requirements or general industry standards, including keeping adequate records or preventing occupational injuries or exposure, could expose us to civil or criminal liability, enforcement actions, and regulatory fines and penalties that may not be recoverable through our rates and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

We expect there to be increased costs associated with compliance with new safety laws and regulations, and those costs could be significant. If these costs are not recoverable in our customer rates, they could have a negative impact on NW Holdings' and NW Natural's operating costs and financial results.

**RELIANCE ON THIRD PARTIES TO SUPPLY, DELIVER, AND/OR OPTIMIZE NATURAL GAS, RNG AND ENVIRONMENTAL ATTRIBUTES OR CREDITS RISK.** *We rely on third parties to supply or optimize natural gas, RNG, storage or pipeline capacity, and environmental attributes or credits, and limitations on our ability to obtain supplies, engage in effective optimization, or failure to receive expected supplies, could have an adverse impact on NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial results.*

Our ability to secure natural gas, RNG and environmental attributes or credits depends upon our ability to purchase and receive delivery of them from third parties. We, and in some cases our suppliers, do not have control over the availability of natural gas, RNG or environmental attributes or credits, competition for those supplies, disruptions in those supplies, priority allocations on transmission pipelines, markets for those supplies, or pricing and other terms related to such supplies. Additionally, third parties that we may rely on may fail to deliver supplies for which it has contracted. For example, in October, 2018, a 36-inch pipeline near Prince George, British Columbia owned by Enbridge ruptured, disrupting natural gas flows from Canada into Washington while the ruptured pipeline and an adjacent pipeline were assessed and the ruptured pipeline was repaired. Once repaired, pressurization levels for those pipelines were reduced for a significant period of time for assessment and testing. In addition, pipeline restrictions resulting from planned or unplanned maintenance events outside of our control, which may increase in

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duration and frequency as infrastructure ages, could impact gas supply and pricing. If we are unable or limited in our ability to obtain natural gas, RNG or environmental attributes or credits from our current suppliers or new sources, we may not be able to meet customers' gas requirements or regulatory or compliance requirements, and would likely incur costs associated with actions necessary to mitigate service disruptions or regulatory compliance, which could significantly and negatively impact NW Holdings' and NW Natural's results of operations.

We also contract with an independent energy marketing company to provide asset management services regarding storage and pipeline capacity when those assets are not serving the needs of NWN Gas Utility customers. We may not be able to fully direct these transactions, or the counterparty to these arrangements may act contrary to our interests, become financially distressed or have economic or other business interests or goals that are inconsistent with ours. Failure to effectively optimize our assets could result in a negative impact on NW Holdings' and NW Natural's financial condition, revenues and results of operations.

**SINGLE TRANSPORTATION PIPELINE RISK.** *NW Natural relies on a single pipeline company for the transportation of gas to its service territory, a disruption, limitation, or inadequacy of which could adversely impact its ability to meet customers' gas requirements, which could significantly and negatively impact NW Holdings' and NW Natural's results of operations.*

NW Natural's distribution system is directly connected to a single interstate pipeline, which is owned and operated by Northwest Pipeline. The pipeline's gas flows are bi-directional, transporting gas into the Portland metropolitan market from two directions: (1) the north, which brings supplies from the British Columbia and Alberta supply basins; and (2) the east, which brings supplies from the Alberta and the U.S. Rocky Mountain supply basins. If there is a rupture or inadequate capacity in, or supplies to maintain adequate pressures in, the pipeline, NW Natural may not be able to meet its customers' gas requirements and we would likely incur costs associated with actions necessary to mitigate service disruptions, both of which could significantly and negatively impact NW Holdings' and NW Natural's results of operations.

**GAS STORAGE THIRD PARTY PIPELINE RISK.** *NW Natural's gas storage business depends on third-party pipelines that connect our storage facilities to interstate pipelines, the failure or unavailability of which could adversely affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.*

Our gas storage facilities are reliant on the continued operation of a third-party pipeline and other facilities that provide delivery options to and from our storage facilities. Because we do not own all of these pipelines, their operations are not within our control. If the third-party pipeline to which we are connected were to become unavailable for current or future withdrawals or injections of natural gas due to repairs, damage to the infrastructure, lack of capacity or other reasons, our ability to operate efficiently and satisfy our customers' needs could be compromised, thereby potentially having an adverse impact on NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

**WORKFORCE RISK.** *NW Holdings' and NW Natural's businesses are heavily dependent on being able to attract and retain qualified employees and maintain a competitive cost structure with market-based salaries and employee benefits. Workforce disruptions could adversely affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's operations and results.*

NW Holdings' and NW Natural's ability to implement our business strategy and serve our customers is dependent upon our continuing ability to attract and retain diverse, talented professionals and a technically skilled workforce, and being able to transfer the knowledge and expertise of our workforce to new and increasingly diverse employees as our largely older workforce retires. A significant portion of our workforce is currently eligible or will reach retirement eligibility within the next five years, which will require that we attract, train and retain skilled workers to prevent loss of institutional knowledge or skills gaps. We face competition for qualified personnel with specific skillsets. This competition may result in increased pressure on wages or other challenges in recruiting or retaining personnel. Without an appropriately skilled workforce, our ability to provide quality service and meet our regulatory requirements will be challenged and this could negatively impact NW Holdings' and NW Natural's earnings. Additionally, approximately half of NW Natural workers comprising approximately 39% of NW Holdings' total workforce, are represented by the OPEIU Local No. 11 AFL-CIO and are covered by a collective bargaining agreement that extends to May 31, 2028. Disputes with the union representing NW Natural employees over terms and conditions of their agreement, or failure to timely and effectively renegotiate the agreement upon its expiration, could result in instability in our labor relationship or other labor disruptions or work stoppages that could impact the timely delivery of gas and other services from our utility and storage facilities, which could strain relationships with customers and state regulators and cause a loss of revenues. The collective bargaining agreements may also limit our flexibility in dealing with NW Natural's workforce, and the ability to change work rules and practices and implement other efficiency-related improvements to successfully compete in today's challenging marketplace, which may negatively affect NW Holdings' and NW Natural's financial condition and results of operations.

**<u>Environmental Risks</u>**

**ENVIRONMENTAL LIABILITY RISK.** *Certain of NW Natural's, and possibly NW Holdings', properties and facilities may pose environmental risks requiring remediation, the costs of which are difficult to estimate, and which could adversely affect NW Holdings' and NW Natural's financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.*

NW Natural owns, or previously owned, properties that require environmental remediation or other action. NW Holdings or NW Natural may now, or in the future, own other properties that require environmental remediation or other action. NW Natural and

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NW Holdings accrue all material loss contingencies relating to these properties. A regulatory asset at NW Natural has been recorded for estimated costs pursuant to a deferral order from the OPUC and WUTC. In addition to maintaining regulatory deferrals, NW Natural settled with most of its historical liability insurers for only a portion of the costs it has incurred to date and expects to incur in the future. To the extent amounts NW Natural recovered from insurance are inadequate and it is unable to recover these deferred costs in utility customer rates, NW Natural would be required to reduce its regulatory assets which would result in a charge to earnings in the year in which regulatory assets are reduced. In addition, in Oregon, the OPUC approved the SRRM, which limits recovery of deferred amounts to those amounts which satisfy an annual prudence review and an earnings test that requires NW Natural to contribute additional amounts toward environmental remediation costs above approximately $10 million in years in which NW Natural earns above its authorized ROE. To the extent NW Natural earns more than its authorized ROE in a year, it would be required to cover environmental expenses greater than the $10 million with those earnings that exceed its authorized ROE. The OPUC ordered a review of the SRRM in 2018 or when we obtain greater certainty of environmental costs, whichever occurred first. We submitted information for review in 2018 and believe we could be subject to further review. Similarly, in October 2019, the WUTC authorized an ECRM, which allows for recovery of certain past deferred and future prudently incurred remediation costs allocable to Washington through application of insurance proceeds and collections from customers, subject to an annual prudence determination. These ongoing prudence reviews, or with respect to the SRRM, the earnings test, or the periodic review could reduce the amounts NW Natural is allowed to recover and could adversely affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Moreover, we may have disputes with regulators and other parties as to the severity of particular environmental matters, what remediation efforts are appropriate, whether natural resources were damaged, and the portion of the costs or claims NW Natural or NW Holdings should bear. We cannot predict with certainty the amount or timing of future expenditures related to environmental investigations, remediation or other action, the portions of these costs allocable to NW Natural or NW Holdings, or disputes or litigation arising in relation thereto.

Environmental liability estimates are based on current remediation technology, industry experience gained at similar sites, an assessment of probable level of responsibility, the terms of orders, judgments or decrees issued or obtained by regulators, and the financial condition of other potentially responsible parties. However, it is difficult to estimate such costs due to uncertainties surrounding the course of environmental remediation, the preliminary nature of certain site investigations, natural recovery of the site, unavoidable limitations associated with environmental investigations and remedial technologies, evolving science, the application of environmental laws that impose joint and several liabilities on all potentially responsible parties, and changes in federal, state or local environmental statutes, regulations or policies. These uncertainties and disputes arising therefrom could lead to further adversarial administrative proceedings or litigation, with associated costs and uncertain outcomes, all of which could adversely affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

**ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATION COMPLIANCE RISK.** *NW Holdings and NW Natural are subject to environmental regulations, compliance with which or failure to comply with, could adversely affect our operations or financial results.*

NW Holdings and NW Natural are subject to laws, regulations and other legal requirements enacted or adopted by federal, state and local governmental authorities relating to protection of the environment, including those legal requirements that govern discharges of substances into the air and water, the management and disposal of hazardous substances and waste, groundwater quality and availability, plant and wildlife protection, the emitting of greenhouse gases, and other aspects of environmental regulation. For example, our natural gas operations are subject to reporting requirements to a number of governmental authorities including, but not limited to, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ), and the Washington State Department of Ecology regarding greenhouse gas emissions. We are also required to reduce emissions of GHGs over time in accordance with the recently issued Oregon Climate Protection Program (CPP) and the Washington Climate Commitment Act (CCA). We expect that compliance with GHG emissions regulations will require additional resources and legislative or regulatory tools and will increase costs. The developing and changing guidance to implement the CCA and CPP, evolving carbon credit markets and other regulatory tool options, decades-long timeframes for compliance, likely changing and evolving laws and energy policy, and evolving technological advancements, all make it difficult to accurately predict long-term tools for and costs of compliance. Increased compliance costs or additional operating restrictions resulting from current and future additional environmental regulations at the local, state or national level may or may not be recoverable in customer rates, through insurance or otherwise. If these costs are not recoverable, or if these regulations reduce the desirability, availability, or cost-competitiveness of natural gas, they could have an adverse effect on NW Holdings' or NW Natural's operations or financial condition. Furthermore, failure to comply with such laws or regulations could subject us to possible enforcement actions, financial liability or litigation, any of which could adversely affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition and results of operations.

**GLOBAL CLIMATE CHANGE RISK.** *Our businesses may be subject to physical risks associated with climate change, all of which could adversely affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.*

Climate change may cause physical risks, including an increase in sea level, intensified storms, water scarcity, wildfire susceptibility and intensity and changes in weather conditions, such as changes in precipitation, average temperatures and extreme wind or other extreme weather events or climate conditions. Moreover, a significant portion of the nation's gas infrastructure is located in areas susceptible to storm damage that could be aggravated by wetland and barrier island erosion, which could give rise to gas supply interruptions and price spikes. Fire risk is also significant in the western United States,

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including in our service territory, and may be elevated by warmer air temperatures, drought, wind and land management practices. Climate change may increase the likelihood and magnitude of damages that may be caused by fires, which may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.

These and other physical changes could result in disruptions to natural gas production and transportation systems potentially increasing the cost of gas and affecting our natural gas businesses' ability to procure or transport gas to meet customer demand. These changes could also affect our distribution systems resulting in increased maintenance and capital costs, disruption of service, regulatory actions and lower customer satisfaction. Similar disruptions could occur in NW Holdings' water utility and unregulated RNG businesses. To the extent we are unable to recover these costs, or if higher rates resulting from our recovery of such costs result in reduced demand for our services, our future business, financial condition, or financial results could be adversely impacted. Additionally, to the extent that climate change adversely impacts the economic health or weather conditions of our service territory directly, it could adversely impact customer demand or ability to pay. Such physical risks could have an adverse effect on NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.

**PUBLIC PERCEPTION AND POLICY RISK.** *Changes in public sentiment or public policy with respect to natural gas, including through local, state or federal laws or legislation or other regulation (including ballot initiatives, executive orders or regulatory codes) or litigation, could adversely affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.*

There are a number of international, federal, state, and local legislative, legal, regulatory and other initiatives being proposed and adopted in an attempt to measure, control or limit the effects of global warming and climate change, including greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions such as carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, and methane. These initiatives have and could continue to take a variety of forms including, but not limited to, GHG emissions limits, reporting requirements, carbon taxes, requirements to purchase carbon credits, building codes, increased efficiency standards, appliance taxes and fees, additional charges to fund energy efficiency activities or other regulatory actions, and incentives or mandates to conserve energy, or use renewable energy sources. Federal, state, or local governments may provide tax advantages and other subsidies to support alternative energy sources, withdraw funding from fossil fuel sources, mandate or restrict the use of specific fuels or technologies (including natural gas), or promote research into new technologies to reduce the cost and increase the scalability of alternative energy sources. Moreover, federal policy shifts under the current presidential administration, including actions that could restrict, discourage or impose penalties on sustainability or decarbonization initiatives, could increase our costs or penalize or limit our ability to pursue renewable energy projects.

At the state level, effective beginning in 2023, the State of Washington enacted the Climate Commitment Act (CCA), which establishes a comprehensive program that provides an overall limit for GHG emissions from major sources in the state and declines yearly to 95% below 1990 levels by 2050. NW Natural is currently subject to the CCA. Similarly, in Oregon, in November 2024, the ODEQ issued final cap and reduce rules for its Climate Protection Program (CPP), which became effective January 1, 2025. The CPP establishes a program to limit GHG emissions from covered entities, including natural gas utilities, by 50% by 2035 and 90% by 2050 from a 2017-2019 baseline. In addition, the State of Washington has implemented, and the State of Oregon and some local jurisdictions have considered or are considering, building codes that could have the effect of disfavoring or disallowing natural gas in residential or commercial new construction or conversions, including locations within our service territory. Certain local jurisdictions in our service territories have also considered or developed plans address GHG emissions, and engaged in a number of actions, including identifying potential revenue sources, like a gas supplier tax. Similarly, some jurisdictions and advocates are evaluating restricting the use of natural gas and certain natural gas appliances inside homes contending that there are detrimental indoor health effects associated with the use of natural gas. Some jurisdictions are also considering whether to impose carbon impact fees on buildings that use natural gas.

Such current or future legislation, regulation or other initiatives (including executive orders, ballot initiatives or ordinances) could impose on our natural gas businesses operational requirements or restrictions, additional charges to fund energy efficiency initiatives, or levy a tax based on carbon content. In addition, certain jurisdictions, including San Francisco, Seattle, Colorado, the District of Columbia, Maryland, and New York have enacted measures to ban or discourage the use of new natural gas hookups in various building types. Other jurisdictions, including several in our service territory, have considered or are currently considering similar restrictions or other measures discouraging the use of natural gas, such as limitations or bans on the use of natural gas in new construction, requiring the conversion of buildings to electric heat, or adopting policies or incentives to encourage the use of electricity in lieu of natural gas. Such restrictions could adversely impact customer growth or usage and could adversely impact our ability to recover costs and maintain reasonable customer rates. In addition, certain states, cities, local jurisdictions and private parties have initiated lawsuits against companies related to alleged climate change impacts, GHG emissions or climate-related disclosures. We have been named as a defendant in two such legal proceedings, each as described in more detail in Note 17 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. While we intend to diligently defend against such claims, we cannot predict the outcome of such litigation. Such climate-related claims or actions could be costly to defend and could negatively impact our business, reputation, financial condition, and results of operations.

NW Natural believes natural gas has an important role in moving the Pacific Northwest to a lower carbon future and is developing programs and measures to reduce carbon emissions. However, NW Natural's efforts may not happen quickly enough to keep pace with legislation or other regulation, legal changes or public sentiment, or may be more costly or not be as effective as expected. Any of these initiatives, or our unsuccessful response to them, could result in us incurring additional costs to comply

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with the imposed policies, regulations, restrictions or programs, provide a cost or other competitive advantage to energy sources other than natural gas, reduce demand for natural gas, restrict our customer growth, impose costs or restrictions on end users of natural gas, impact the prices we charge our customers, increase the likelihood of litigation, reduce our access to capital, impose increased costs on us associated with the adoption of new infrastructure and technology to respond to such requirements which may or may not be recoverable in customer rates, and could negatively impact public perception of our services or products that negatively diminishes the value of our brand, all of which could adversely affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's business operations, financial condition and results of operations.

**<u>Business Continuity and Technology Risks</u>**

**BUSINESS CONTINUITY RISK.** *NW Holdings and NW Natural may be adversely impacted by local or national disasters, pandemics, political unrest, terrorist activities, cyber-attacks or data breaches, and other extreme events to which we may not be able to promptly respond, which could adversely affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's operations or financial condition.*

Local or national disasters (including but not limited to earthquakes, wildfires, floods, storms, freezes, landslides, hurricanes), pandemics, political unrest, terrorist activities, cyber-attacks and data breaches, power outages, and other extreme events are a threat to our assets and operations. Companies in critical infrastructure industries face a heightened risk due to being the target of, and having heightened exposure to, acts of terrorism or sabotage, including physical and security breaches of our physical infrastructure and information technology or operational technology systems in the form of cyber-attacks or other forms of attacks. These attacks could, among other things, target or impact our technology or mechanical systems that operate our distribution, transmission or storage facilities, or the safety and security of our employees, and result in a disruption in our operations, damage to our system and inability to meet customer requirements. Threatened or actual national disasters, pandemics or terrorist activities may also increase economic instability and volatility, disrupt capital or bank markets and our ability to raise capital or obtain debt financing, or impact our suppliers or our customers directly, including increasing volatility in the price of natural gas and other commodities or reducing customer demand for natural gas or water. Local disasters, pandemics, or civil unrest could disrupt our infrastructure or facilities, increase operating costs, or limit workforce availability to operate and maintain systems or perform essential business functions. Such events may also restrict our ability to collect overdue accounts or disconnect service for nonpayment within acceptable limits. A delayed or inadequate response could adversely affect operations and earnings. We may not be able to maintain sufficient insurance to cover all risks associated with local and national disasters, pandemic illnesses, terrorist activities, cyber-attacks and other attacks or events. Additionally, large scale natural disasters or terrorist attacks could destabilize the insurance industry making the insurance we do have unavailable, which could increase the risk that an event could adversely affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's operations or financial results. Similarly, business disruptions may limit, delay or block public utility commissions' ability to approve or authorize applications or other requests we may make with respect to our regulated businesses. Any of these occurrences, or the resulting effects could have a material adverse effect on our business, outlook, financial condition, and results of operations and cash flows.

**RELIANCE ON TECHNOLOGY RISK.** *NW Holdings' and NW Natural's efforts to integrate, consolidate and streamline each of their operations has resulted in increased reliance on technology, the failure of which could adversely affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition and results of operations.*

NW Holdings and NW Natural have undertaken, and will continue to undertake, a variety of initiatives to integrate, standardize, centralize and streamline operations. These efforts have resulted in greater reliance on technological tools such as: an enterprise resource planning system, technology associated with gas operations, a digital dispatch system, an automated meter reading system, a web-based ordering and tracking system, and other similar technological tools and initiatives. Our future success will depend, in part, on our ability to timely anticipate and adapt to technological changes in a cost-effective manner. New technologies may emerge that could be superior to, or may not be compatible with, some of our existing technologies, and may require us to make significant expenditures to remain competitive. Although we continue to implement technology to improve our business processes and customer interactions, failure to replace aging technological infrastructure on a timely basis could result in operational challenges, business disruptions, negative reputational impacts, and additional costs. In addition, our existing information technology systems require periodic modifications, upgrades and/or replacement. For example, NW Natural is implementing a new gas control system in the near future.

There are various risks associated with technology systems, including hardware and software failure, communications failure, data distortion or destruction, unauthorized access to data, misuse of proprietary or confidential data, unauthorized control through electronic means, programming mistakes and other inadvertent errors or deliberate human acts. In addition, we are dependent on a continuing flow of important components and appropriately skilled individuals to maintain and upgrade our technology systems. Our suppliers have previously faced disruptions, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic, and may face additional production or import delays due to natural disasters, strikes, lock-outs, political unrest, pandemics or other circumstances. Technology services provided by third-parties also could be disrupted due to events and circumstances beyond our control which could adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Any modifications, upgrades, system maintenance or replacements subject us to inherent costs and risks, including disruption of our internal control structure, substantial capital expenditures, additional administrative and operating expenses, retention of sufficiently skilled personnel to implement and operate the new systems, and other risks and costs of delays or difficulties in transitioning to new systems or of integrating new systems into our current systems. In addition, the difficulties with implementing

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new technology systems may disrupt our operations and have an adverse effect on our business, if not anticipated and appropriately mitigated. Additionally, we may not be able to recover all costs associated with projects to improve our technological capabilities, which may adversely affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition and results of operations.

**CYBERSECURITY RISK.** *NW Holdings' and NW Natural's status as an infrastructure services provider coupled with its reliance on technology could result in a security breach which could adversely affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition and results of operations.*

We face risks from cybersecurity threats that could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows or reputation. We have experienced, and may continue to experience, cyber incidents in the normal course of business. Although we take precautions to protect our technology systems, there is no guarantee that the procedures we have implemented to protect against unauthorized access to secured data and systems, including our operational technology and information technology systems, are adequate to safeguard against all security breaches or other cyberattacks. The cybersecurity risk to NW Holdings and its affiliates may be elevated to the extent that we acquire businesses with less mature information technology systems. Additionally, the facilities and systems of clients, suppliers and third-party service providers also could be vulnerable to cyber risks and attacks, and such third party systems may be interconnected to our systems. Therefore, an event caused by cyberattacks or other malicious act at an interconnected third party could impact our business and facilities similarly. The advancement and proliferation of AI may give rise to additional vulnerabilities and entry points for cyberattacks. As these potential cyber security attacks become more common and sophisticated, we could be required to incur costs to strengthen our systems or maintain insurance coverage against potential losses. Moreover, a variety of regulatory agencies are focused on cybersecurity risks, and specifically in critical infrastructure sectors. For example, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has published security directives and in November 2024, proposed formal rules mandating cybersecurity actions for critical pipeline owners and operators. Failure to meet the requirements of these directives or other cybersecurity regulations could result in fines or other penalties.

In addition, our businesses could experience breaches of security pertaining to sensitive customer, employee, and vendor information maintained by us in the normal course of business, which could adversely affect our reputation, diminish customer confidence, disrupt operations, materially increase the costs we incur to protect against, respond to, or recover from these risks, and subject us to possible financial liability or increased regulation or litigation. There is also a risk of exposure of confidential or proprietary data through the inadvertent use of open AI tools. All of these risks could adversely affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition and results of operations.

**<u>Financial and Economic Risks</u>**

**HOLDING COMPANY DIVIDEND RISK.** *As a holding company, NW Holdings depends on its operating subsidiaries, including NW Natural, to meet financial obligations and the ability of NW Holdings to pay dividends on its common stock is dependent on the receipt of dividends and other payments from its subsidiaries, including NW Natural.* 

As a holding company, NW Holdings' only significant assets are the stock and membership interests of its operating subsidiaries, primarily NW Natural. NW Holdings' direct and indirect subsidiaries are separate and distinct legal entities, managed by their own boards of directors, and have no obligation to pay any amounts to their respective shareholders, whether through dividends, loans or other payments. The ability of these companies to pay dividends or make other distributions on their common stock is subject to, among other things: their results of operations, net income, cash flows and financial condition, as well as the success of their business strategies and general economic and competitive conditions; the prior rights of holders of existing and future debt securities and any future preferred stock issued by those companies; and any applicable legal restrictions.

In addition, the ability of NW Holdings' subsidiaries to pay upstream dividends and make other distributions is subject to applicable state law and regulatory restrictions. Under the OPUC and WUTC regulatory approvals for the holding company formation, if NW Natural ceases to comply with credit and capital structure requirements approved by the OPUC and WUTC, it will not, with limited exceptions, be permitted to pay dividends to NW Holdings. Under the OPUC and WUTC orders authorizing the holding company reorganization, NW Natural may not pay dividends or make distributions to NW Holdings if NW Natural's credit ratings and common equity levels fall below specified ratings and levels. If NW Natural's long-term secured credit ratings are below A- for S&P and A3 for Moody's, dividends may be issued so long as NW Natural's common equity is 45% or above. If NW Natural's long-term secured credit ratings are below BBB for S&P and Baa2 for Moody's, dividends may be issued so long as NW Natural's common equity is 46% or above. Dividends may not be issued if NW Natural's long-term secured credit ratings fall to BB+ or below for S&P or Ba1 or below for Moody's, or if NW Natural's common equity is below 44%. The ratio is measured using common equity and long-term debt excluding imputed debt or debt-like lease obligations and is determined on a preceding or projected 13-month basis.

**EMPLOYEE BENEFIT RISK.** *The cost of providing pension and postretirement healthcare benefits is subject to changes in pension assets and liabilities, changing employee demographics and changing actuarial assumptions, which may have an adverse effect on NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.*

Until NW Natural closed the pension plans to new hires, which for non-union employees was in 2006 and for union employees was in 2009, it provided pension plans and postretirement healthcare benefits to eligible full-time utility employees and retirees. As of December 31, 2025, approximately 21% of NW Natural's current utility employees remain eligible for these plans. Other

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businesses we acquire may also have pension plans. The costs to NW Natural, or the other applicable businesses we may acquire, for providing such benefits is subject to change in the market value of the pension assets, changes in employee demographics including longer life expectancies, increases in healthcare costs, current and future legislative changes, and various actuarial calculations and assumptions. The actuarial assumptions used to calculate our future pension and postretirement healthcare expenses may differ materially from actual results due to significant market fluctuations and changing withdrawal rates, wage rates, interest rates and other factors. These differences may result in an adverse impact on the amount of pension contributions, pension expense or other postretirement benefit costs recorded in future periods. Sustained declines in equity markets and reductions in bond rates may have a material adverse effect on the value of the pension fund assets and liabilities. In these circumstances, NW Natural may be required to recognize increased contributions and pension expense earlier than it had planned to the extent that the value of pension assets is less than the total anticipated liability under the plans, which could have a negative impact on NW Holdings' and NW Natural's financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

**HEDGING RISK.** *NW Holdings' and NW Natural's risk management policies and hedging activities cannot eliminate the risk of commodity price movements and other financial market risks, and hedging activities may expose us to additional liabilities for which rate recovery may be disallowed, which could result in an adverse impact on NW Holdings' and NW Natural's operating revenues, costs, derivative assets and liabilities and operating cash flows.*

Our gas purchasing requirements expose us to risks of commodity price movements, while our use of debt and equity financing exposes us to interest rate, liquidity and other financial market risks. We attempt to manage these exposures with both physical hedges, including our storage and gas reserves transactions, which are hedges backed by physical gas supplies, and financial hedges, such as gas swaps and interest rate hedging arrangements. We may also enter into other types of financial and physical hedging arrangements from time to time. While we have risk management procedures for hedging in place, they may not always work as planned and cannot entirely eliminate the risks associated with hedging. Additionally, our hedging activities may cause us to incur additional expenses to obtain the hedge. We do not hedge our entire interest rate or commodity cost exposure, and the unhedged exposure will vary over time. Gains or losses experienced through NW Natural's hedging activities, including carrying costs, generally flow through NW Natural's PGA mechanism or are recovered in future general rate cases. However, the hedge transactions NW Natural enters into for utility purposes are subject to a prudence review by the OPUC and WUTC, and, if found imprudent, those expenses may be, and have been previously, disallowed, which could have an adverse effect on NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition and results of operations.

In addition, our actual business requirements and available resources may vary from forecasts, which are used as the basis for hedging decisions and could cause our exposure to be more or less than anticipated. Moreover, if NW Natural's derivative instruments and hedging transactions do not qualify for regulatory deferral or hedge accounting treatment under U.S. GAAP, NW Holdings' or NW Natural's results of operations and financial condition could be adversely affected.

NW Holdings and NW Natural also have credit and performance exposure to derivative counterparties. Counterparties owing NW Holdings, NW Natural or their respective subsidiaries money, physical natural gas, RNG or environmental attributes could breach their obligations. Should the counterparties to these arrangements fail to perform, we may be forced to enter into alternative arrangements to meet our normal business requirements. In that event, NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial results could be adversely affected. Additionally, under most of NW Natural's hedging arrangements, a downgrade of its senior unsecured long-term debt credit rating could allow its counterparties to require NW Natural to post cash, a letter of credit or other form of collateral, which would expose NW Natural to additional costs and may trigger significant increases in borrowing from its credit facilities or equity contribution needs from NW Holdings, if the credit rating downgrade is below investment grade. Further, based on current interpretations, each of NW Holdings, NW Natural and NWN Water is not considered a "swap dealer" or "major swap participant" as of 2025, so we are exempt from certain requirements under the Dodd-Frank Act. If we are unable to claim this exemption, we could be subject to higher costs for our derivatives activities, and such costs could have a negative impact on NW Holdings' and NW Natural's operating costs and financial results.

**GAS PRICE RISK.** *Higher natural gas commodity prices and volatility in the price of gas may adversely affect our NWN Gas Utility business, whereas lower gas price volatility may adversely affect NW Natural's interstate gas storage business and optimization portfolio, negatively affecting NW Holdings' and NW Natural's results of operations and cash flows.*

The cost of natural gas is affected by a variety of factors, including weather, changes in demand, the level of production and availability of natural gas supplies, transportation constraints, availability and cost of pipeline capacity, federal, state and local energy and environmental policy, regulation and legislation, natural disasters and other catastrophic events, national and worldwide economic and political conditions, and the price and availability of alternative fuels. In recent years, we have experienced increased pricing and volatility in the current and forward gas markets. In addition, although tariffs imposed to date have not materially impacted our businesses, additional tariffs or trade restrictions, or a change in the terms of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), could increase the price of gas that we import from Canada or result in other costs across our businesses. At our gas businesses, the cost we pay for natural gas is generally passed through to customers through an annual purchased gas rate adjustment. If gas prices were to increase significantly and remain high, it could raise the cost of energy to our customers, potentially causing those customers to conserve or switch to alternate sources of energy. Sustained significant elevated prices could also cause new home builders and commercial developers to select alternative energy sources. Decreases in the volume of gas we sell could reduce NW Holdings or NW Natural's earnings, and a decline in customers could slow growth in future earnings. Additionally, notwithstanding our gas businesses' current rate structure, higher gas costs could

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result in increased pressure on our regulators to seek other means to reduce rates, which also could adversely affect NW Holdings' and NW Natural's results of operations and cash flows.

Temporary gas price increases can also adversely affect NW Holdings' and NW Natural's operating cash flows, liquidity and results of operations. In Oregon, a portion (10% or 20%) of any difference between the estimated average PGA gas cost in rates and the actual average gas cost incurred is recognized as current income or expense. Additionally, purchased gas costs for utility purposes are subject to a prudence review by state regulatory agencies, and, if found imprudent, those expenses may be disallowed or not fully recovered, which could have an adverse effect on NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition and results of operations.

Temporary or sustained higher gas prices may also cause us to experience an increase in short-term debt and temporarily reduce liquidity because it pays suppliers for gas when it is purchased, which can be in advance of when these costs are recovered through rates. Significant increases in the price of gas can also slow collection efforts as customers experience increased difficulty in paying their higher energy bills, leading to higher than normal delinquent accounts receivable resulting in greater expense associated with collection efforts and increased bad debt expense.

**INABILITY TO ACCESS CAPITAL MARKET RISK.** *NW Holdings' or NW Natural's inability to access capital, or significant increases in the cost of capital, could adversely affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition and results of operations.*

NW Holdings' and NW Natural's ability to obtain adequate and cost effective short-term and long-term financing depends on maintaining investment grade credit profiles, perceptions of our business in capital markets, and the existence of liquid and stable financial markets. NW Holdings relies on access to equity, debt, and bank markets to finance equity contributions to subsidiaries and other business requirements. NW Natural relies on access to capital and bank markets, including commercial paper and bond markets, to finance its operations, construction expenditures and other business requirements, and to refinance maturing debt that cannot be funded entirely by internal cash flows. Disruptions in capital markets, including but not limited to, pandemics, political unrest, inflationary pressures, recessionary pressures, or rising interest rates could adversely affect our ability to access short-term and long-term financing or refinance maturing indebtedness. Our access to funds under committed credit facilities, which are currently provided by a number of banks, is dependent on the ability of the participating banks to meet their funding commitments. Those banks may not be able to meet their funding commitments if they experience shortages of capital and liquidity. Disruptions in the bank or capital financing markets as a result of economic uncertainty, changing or increased regulation of the financial sector, or failure of major financial institutions, or disruptions in credit markets, could adversely affect NW Holdings' and NW Natural's access to capital and negatively impact our ability to run our businesses, achieve NW Natural's authorized rate of return, and make strategic investments. In addition, public policy developments impacting natural gas, including through local, state or federal laws or legislation or other regulation (including ballot initiatives, executive orders or regulatory codes) or litigation, or perceptions in the financial markets in favor of investments that are perceived to be "green" or "sustainable" could result in a shift funding away from, or limit or restrict certain forms of funding for, natural gas businesses or otherwise impact our ability to access capital.

NW Natural is currently rated by S&P and Moody's, and NW Holdings and SiEnergy are currently rated by S&P. A negative change in their respective credit ratings, particularly below investment grade, could adversely affect our cost of borrowing and access to sources of liquidity and capital. Such a downgrade could further limit our access to borrowing under available credit lines. Additionally, downgrades in NW Natural's current credit ratings below investment grade could cause additional delays in NW Natural's ability to access the capital markets while it seeks supplemental state regulatory approval, which could hamper its ability to access credit markets on a timely basis. NW Holdings' credit profile is largely supported by NW Natural's credit ratings and any negative change in NW Natural's credit ratings could negatively impact NW Holdings' access to sources of liquidity and capital and cost of borrowing. A credit downgrade could also require additional support in the form of letters of credit, cash or other forms of collateral and otherwise adversely affect NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition and results of operations.

**IMPAIRMENT OF LONG-LIVED ASSETS OR GOODWILL RISK***. Impairments of the value of long-lived assets or goodwill could have a material effect on NW Holdings' or NW Natural's financial condition, or results of operations.*

NW Holdings and NW Natural review the carrying value of long-lived assets other than goodwill whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of the assets might not be recoverable. The determination of recoverability is based on the undiscounted net cash flows expected to result from the operation of such assets. Projected cash flows depend on the future operating costs and projected revenues associated with the asset.

NW Holdings reviews the carrying value of goodwill annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that such carrying value may not be recoverable. A goodwill impairment analysis begins with a qualitative analysis of events and circumstances. If the qualitative assessment indicates that the carrying value may be at risk, we will perform a quantitative assessment and recognize a goodwill impairment for any amount in which the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value. NW Holdings' total goodwill was $370.8 million as of December 31, 2025 and $183.8 million as of December 31, 2024. There have been no impairments recognized for acquisitions to date.

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**CUSTOMER CONSERVATION RISK.** *Customer conservation may negatively impact NW Holdings' and NW Natural's revenues.*

Increased focus on energy conservation, including improved building practices and appliance efficiencies may lead customers to reduce energy consumption. Because revenues are collected largely through volumetric rates based on the amount of gas sold, increased conservation could reduce natural gas sales and adversely affect our results of operation. In Oregon, NW Natural has a conservation tariff designed to recover lost utility margin due to declines in residential and small commercial customers' consumption. However, no comparable conservation tariff exists in Washington or for our gas business in Texas. Similar conservation risks exist for water utilities. As a result, customers' conservation efforts may have a negative impact on NW Holdings' and NW Natural's financial condition, revenues and results of operations.

**ECONOMIC RISK.** *Changes in the economy and in the financial markets may have a negative impact on our financial condition and results of operations.*

An economic slowdown could adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows. Economic volatility also makes it more difficult to accurately forecast, plan, and identify risks that may affect our business. Changes in economic conditions in our regional and global markets may lead to higher operating and financing costs; reduced demand for energy; increased customer payment delinquencies, bankruptcies, or write-offs; slower housing construction or fewer conversions to natural gas; higher residential foreclosures or vacancies; and greater uncertainty in energy prices, capital markets, and commodity markets, as well as increased credit and supply-chain risks. We continue to monitor current economic conditions, which include but are not limited to: inflation and interest rates, supply chain disruptions, tariffs, geopolitical volatility, and other regulatory, physical or cyber related risks impacting our business. These and other factors could adversely impact the markets in which we operate and contribute to a local, national, or global economic downturn or recession. The timing, severity, and duration of any such slowdown are uncertain, and any deterioration in economic or market conditions could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

**WEATHER RISK.** *Warmer than average weather may have a negative impact on our revenues and results of operations.*

We are exposed to weather risk in our natural gas businesses. A majority of NW Natural's gas volume is driven by gas sales to space heating residential and small commercial customers during the winter heating season. Current NW Natural rates are based on an assumption of average weather. Warmer than average weather typically results in lower gas sales. Colder weather typically results in higher gas sales. Although the effects of warmer or colder weather on utility margin in Oregon are expected to be mitigated through the operation of NW Natural's weather normalization mechanism, weather variations from normal, or extreme weather events, could adversely affect utility margin because NW Natural may be required to purchase more or less gas at spot rates, which may be higher or lower than the rates assumed in its PGA. Also, a portion of NW Natural's Oregon residential and commercial customers (usually less than 10%) have opted out of the weather normalization mechanism, and approximately 12% of its customers are located in Washington where it does not have a weather normalization mechanism. SiEnergy, our gas utility in Texas similarly maintains a weather normalization mechanism, however, this mechanism may not fully mitigate the impact of unexpected or extreme weather in Texas. These effects could have an adverse effect on NW Holdings' and NW Natural's financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

**<u>Water Business Risks</u>**

**WATER SECTOR BUSINESS.** *NW Holdings' water, wastewater and water services businesses are subject to a number of risks in addition to the risks described above.*

Our water businesses are subject to risks, in addition to those described above, including:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*•* Contamination of water supplies, including water provided to customers with naturally occurring or human-made substances or other hazardous materials such as perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), or disruptions to water treatment processes;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;▪ Wastewater discharges by third parties that contain unanticipated levels of chemical or other pollutants;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;▪ Interruptions in water supplies and service, weather conditions, natural disasters and droughts;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;▪ Insufficient water supplies, overuse of sources of water, protection of threatened species or habitats, limitations on or disputes with respect to water rights or supplies, or the inability to secure water rights or supplies at a reasonable cost

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;▪ reliance on third parties for water supplies and transportation of such water supplies;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;◦ Disruptions to the wastewater collection and treatment process, including spills, overflows or system failures;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;▪ Regulatory and legal requirements, including environmental, health and safety laws and regulations and related compliance costs, such as the EPA's regulation of PFAS;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;▪ The outcome of rate cases and other regulatory proceedings;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;▪ Operational risks, including customer and employee safety;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;▪ The ability to attract and retain customers to our water services business and competition for customers' business; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;▪ Conservation efforts by customers.

Significant losses, liabilities or impairments arising from these businesses may adversely affect NW Holdings' financial position or results of operations.

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**INVESTMENT RISK.** *NW Holdings' expectations with respect to the financial results of its investments in water, wastewater and water services operations are based on various assumptions and beliefs that may not prove accurate, resulting in failures or delays in achieving expected returns or performance.*

Although NW Holdings expects its water and wastewater utility operations and water services businesses will provide various benefits, including expanding customer bases, providing investment opportunities through infrastructure development and enhancing regulatory relationships in communities served, NW Holdings may not be able to realize these or other anticipated benefits. Achievement of such benefits is subject to a number of uncertainties, including our ability to operate acquired businesses in the manner intended and whether costs to finance the acquisitions and investments will be consistent with expectations, as well as whether we can successfully scale our investments in a reasonable period of time. Events outside of our control, including but not limited to regulatory changes or developments, could adversely affect our ability to realize the anticipated benefits from building NW Holdings' water platform. The integration of newly acquired water, wastewater or water services businesses, particularly over noncontiguous geographic regions, may be unpredictable, subject to delays or changed circumstances, and such businesses may not perform as expected. In addition, our costs, level of management's attention and internal resources to achieve the integration of or operate the acquired businesses may differ significantly from expectations resulting in failures or delays in achieving expected performance. We have previously acquired, and may make further investments in unregulated businesses on the water platform, including wastewater and water services businesses, which may result in additional uncertainty or volatility of earnings from these businesses. If NW Holdings' expectations regarding the financial results of its investments in water, wastewater or water services operations prove to be inaccurate, it may adversely affect NW Holdings' financial position or results of operations.

**<u>Non-Regulated RNG Risks</u>**

**INVESTMENT RISK.** *NW Holdings' expectations with respect to the financial results of its investments in non-regulated RNG investments are based on various assumptions and beliefs that may not prove accurate, resulting in failures or delays in achieving expected returns.*

Although NW Holdings expects that its non-regulated RNG business will result in various benefits, including providing renewable fuels to support decarbonization in the utility, commercial, industrial and transportation sectors, NW Holdings may not be able to realize these or other benefits. Achieving the anticipated benefits is subject to a number of uncertainties, including whether the investments can be monetized in the manner intended, and whether costs to finance the investments will be consistent with expectations. Events outside of our control, including but not limited to market or regulatory developments, could adversely affect our ability to realize the anticipated benefits from building NW Holdings' non-regulated RNG platform. The establishment and growth of a non-regulated RNG business may be unpredictable, subject to uncertainties or changed circumstances, and such business may not perform in accordance with our expectations. In addition, anticipated costs, level of management's attention and internal resources to achieve the integration of the acquired investments may differ significantly from our current estimates resulting in failures or delays in achieving expected returns or performance. As part of our business model, we may purchase RNG from third parties in a variety of structures, including on a volumes-produced basis. Conversely, we may sell RNG in a variety of structures, including on a fixed-volume basis. This model could result in a mismatch between our purchased RNG portfolio and RNG volumes we have contracted to sell at any one time, which could result in our obligation to procure additional RNG at then-market prices or to pay damages to satisfy RNG sales contracts to which we are a party, which amounts could be significant. For example, the RNG purchase contract between Ohio Renewables and a subsidiary of EDL is on a volumes-produced basis, whereas Ohio Renewables' contract for the sale of RNG from 2025 through 2044 is a fixed-volume contract. We could additionally experience technological challenges; ineffective scalability or inability to achieve production volumes consistent with our expectations and marketing arrangements; construction delays or cost overruns; disputes with third party business partners; risks related to markets for RNG and its associated attributes (including changes in market regulation, behavior, or prices); the inability to receive expected tax or regulatory treatment; unsuccessful business models; or unexpected operating costs. If NW Holdings' expectations regarding the financial results of its investments in non-regulated RNG prove to be inaccurate, it may adversely affect NW Holdings' financial position or results of operations.

**RENEWABLES BUSINESS RISK.** *NW Natural Renewables is an unregulated subsidiary of NW Holdings established to pursue unregulated RNG activities. These activities are subject to a number of risks in addition to the risks described above.*

Our Renewables business is subject to risks, in addition to those described above, including:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• unpredictable production levels or performance or gas quality below expected levels, which may impact our ability to accept or deliver RNG under our contractual agreements;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• construction risks or delays, including due to inclement weather, supply chain or labor disruptions or otherwise;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• cost overruns and the need to commit more capital than initially budgeted as a result of environmental, construction, technological or other complications;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• changes in energy commodity prices, including pricing of, and volatility in markets for, RNG and its associated attributes;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• equipment failure, difficulties or delays in repairing or replacing equipment, technical difficulties or otherwise higher than expected operating costs;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• regulatory, policy, and legal requirements, including environmental, health and safety laws and regulations or regulations that may impact the value of RNG and its associated attributes or our ability to deliver RNG in the manner contemplated under our contractual arrangements;

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• changes to laws or policies that may reduce demand for, or desirability of, RNG or its associated attributes;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• reliance on third parties, including for pipeline interconnection or for a sufficient supply of waste for conversion to RNG;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• catastrophic events such as fires, explosions, earthquakes, freezes, droughts, hurricanes, acts of terrorism and other events that may impact the Renewables business, its customers, suppliers, or other business partners; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• failures or delays in obtaining necessary land rights, permits, approvals or other consents required to construct and operate projects or supporting infrastructure, such as pipeline interconnections.

Significant losses, liabilities or impairments arising from these businesses may adversely affect NW Holdings' financial position or results of operations.

ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

We have no unresolved staff comments.

ITEM 1C. CYBERSECURITY

**<u>Processes of Addressing Cybersecurity Threats</u>**

Cybersecurity is critical to our business. As a critical infrastructure company, we face a variety of cybersecurity threats that range from attacks common to most industries, such as ransomware and denial-of-service, to attacks from more advanced and persistent, highly organized adversaries, including nation state actors, that target critical infrastructure sectors. We recognize the critical importance of maintaining the safety and security of our systems and data and have a holistic process for overseeing and managing cybersecurity and related risks. The process is supported by management and overseen by our Board of Directors.

One of the tools used by management and our Board of Directors in managing business risks is an annual enterprise risk management (ERM) assessment to identify and manage key existing and emerging risks our company faces. Our ERM process is designed to identify significant risks relevant to the company and assess the characteristics and circumstances of the risks to identify both the potential impacts to our company of a particular risk and the velocity with which the risk may manifest. Cybersecurity is among the risks identified in our ERM assessment and has been embedded in the Company's operating procedures, internal controls and information systems.

In addition to our overall ERM process, we have developed and implemented a cybersecurity risk management program and processes intended to detect, assess, manage, and develop resiliency against material risks from cybersecurity threats. Our cybersecurity program utilizes a risk-based approach and includes written cybersecurity and information technology processes and procedures, including a cybersecurity incident response plan that involves procedures for responding to cybersecurity incidents. We design and assess our program informed by various cybersecurity frameworks, such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and leverage a widely-adopted risk assessment model to identify, measure and prioritize cybersecurity and technology risks. The goal of our program is to prevent, identify, escalate, investigate, resolve and recover from identified incidents and security incidents in a timely manner.

Our cybersecurity program also incorporates intelligence sharing capabilities about emerging threats within the utility industry and other industries through collaboration with peer companies and specialized consultants and advisors, public-private partnerships with government intelligence agencies, including the FBI, CISA, and the Department of Energy Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security and Emergency Response, and geopolitical briefings. We also leverage third-party benchmarking, the results from regular internal and third-party audits, technology partner resources, threat intelligence feeds, and other similar resources to inform our cybersecurity processes and allocate resources.

Beginning in May 2021, the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) released two directives, with several updates, applicable to certain owners and operators of pipeline facilities, including NW Natural. These directives cumulatively require owners and operators to implement cybersecurity incident reporting to the DHS, designate two cybersecurity coordinators, and perform a gap assessment of current entity cybersecurity practices against certain voluntary TSA security guidelines and report relevant results and proposed mitigation to applicable DHS agencies; implement a significant number of specified cyber security controls and processes; and clarifying Operational Technology (OT) scope and providing a risk- and outcome-based framework. We made significant additional and accelerated investments in cybersecurity in response to the TSA directives. In November 2024, the TSA proposed regulations with the aim of making the security directives permanent by incorporating them into the US Code of Federal Regulations.

Our cybersecurity program has several fundamental tenants, including security governance, cybersecurity risk management, compliance, defensibility, zero-trust architecture and cloud security. We utilize multilayered defenses and continuous monitoring with data analytics to detect anomalies and search for cyber threats in our system.

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Key components of our cybersecurity risk management program include:

• risk assessments designed to help identify cybersecurity risks to our critical systems, information, services, and our broader technology environment;

• the use of external service providers with specific expertise, where appropriate, to assess, test or otherwise assist with aspects of our security processes;

• cybersecurity awareness training of our employees, incident response personnel and senior management, as well as periodic experiential learning through "phishing simulations";

• segmentation of, and back-ups for, certain of our sensitive systems and data;

• third-party cyber risk management process for vendors including, among other things, a security assessment, contracting program, and ongoing monitoring for vendors based on their risk profile; and

• physical security around our sensitive infrastructure and cybersystems.

In accordance with our program and processes, we regularly assess risks from cybersecurity and technology threats and monitor our information systems for potential vulnerabilities. We conduct regular reviews and tests of our information security program and also utilize audits by our internal audit team and third-party consultants, table-top exercises, penetration and vulnerability testing, data recovery testing, simulations, and other exercises to evaluate the effectiveness of our information security program and improve our security measures and planning. We are continuously working to evolve our oversight processes to mature how we identify and manage cybersecurity risks, and we perform periodic maturity assessments to measure our progress.

As a regulated utility, for decades we have used an incident command system (ICS) as a standardized approach to the command, control and coordination of a variety of emergency situations. In the event of emergencies, including cybersecurity events, we stand up a cross-functional Incident Command Team (ICT) to respond to the emergency. We exercise and train the ICT for a variety of emergencies, including cyber events on a regular basis.

At this time, we have not identified any risks from known previous cybersecurity incidents, that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect us, including our operations, business strategy, results of operations or financial condition. With a majority of our business in energy and infrastructure, we face sophisticated and rapidly evolving attempts to overcome our security measures and protections. The occurrence of both intentional and unintentional incidents could occur in the future. We face certain ongoing risks from cybersecurity threats that, if realized, are reasonably likely to materially affect us, including our operations, business strategy, results of operations, or financial condition. See Item 1A, "Risk Factors" above for additional information on risks related to our business, including for example risks related to cyber attacks, information and system breaches, technology disruptions and failures, and our reliance on technology.

**<u>Cybersecurity Governance</u>**

Our Board considers cybersecurity risk as part of its risk oversight function and has delegated oversight of cybersecurity and other information technology risks to the Audit Committee. The Audit Committee oversees management's implementation of the cybersecurity risk management program.

The Audit Committee receives regular reports from management on our cybersecurity risks. Additionally, management updates the Audit Committee as necessary, regarding any cybersecurity incidents. The Audit Committee reports to the full Board regarding the Audit Committee's areas of oversight, including those related to cybersecurity. The full Board also receives briefings from management on our cybersecurity risk management program periodically. Additionally, our Board receives presentations on cybersecurity topics from our IT management team or external experts as part of the Board's ongoing education.

Our management team, including our Cybersecurity management team, has primary responsibility for our overall cybersecurity risk management program, and supervises both our internal cybersecurity personnel and our retained external cybersecurity consultants. Our Cybersecurity management team is led by Brian Fellon, our Vice President, Chief Information Officer and Chief Information Security Officer (VP, CIO and CISO). Mr. Fellon joined NW Natural and was appointed to his role by the Board of Directors in September 2024. Mr. Fellon reports to our Chief Financial Officer. He has 29 years of experience in information technology. Prior to joining NW Natural, Mr. Fellon served as Director of Information Technology at Puget Sound Energy in Bellevue, Washington from 2016 to September 2024, where he was responsible for applications services, artificial intelligence and data.

Mr. Fellon is supported by our Director of Cybersecurity and Compliance, and his team. Collectively our team has certifications from various organizations such as American Society for Industrial Security, AXELOS, Cloud Security Alliance, Information Systems Audit and Control Association, International Information System Security Certification Consortium and SANS Institute.

Our cybersecurity and compliance team regularly collects data on cybersecurity threats and risk areas, monitors our systems, and conducts testing to assess our processes and procedures and the threat landscape. Our VP, CIO and CISO receives regular updates on cybersecurity matters, results of mitigation efforts and cybersecurity incident response and remediation.

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In the event of an incident, we intend to utilize our ICT and follow our detailed incident program and processes, which outlines the steps to be followed from incident detection to mitigation, recovery and notification, including notifying relevant functional areas, as well as senior leadership and the Board, as appropriate.

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES

**<u>NW Natural's NWN Gas Utility Properties</u>**

NW Natural's natural gas pipeline system consists of approximately 14,500 miles of distribution mains, approximately 700 miles of transmission mains and approximately 10,400 miles of service lines located in its territory in Oregon and southwest Washington. In addition, the pipeline system includes service regulators and meters, as well as district regulators and metering stations. Natural gas pipelines are located in public rights-of-way pursuant to franchise agreements, ordinances, or other legal rights, or on lands of others pursuant to easements obtained from the owners of such lands. NW Natural also holds permits for the crossing of numerous railroads, navigable waterways and smaller tributaries throughout our entire service territory.

NW Natural owns service building facilities in Portland, Oregon, as well as various satellite service centers, garages, warehouses, and other buildings necessary and useful in the conduct of its business. Resource centers are maintained on owned or leased premises at convenient points in the distribution system to provide service within NW Natural's service territory.

NW Natural commenced a 20-year lease in March 2020 for a headquarters and operations center in Portland, Oregon.

NW Natural's Mortgage and Deed of Trust (Mortgage) is a first mortgage lien on certain gas properties owned from time to time by NW Natural, including substantially all of the property constituting NW Natural's natural gas distribution plant balances.

These properties are used in the NWN Gas Utility segment.

**<u>NW Natural's Natural Gas Storage Properties</u>** 

NW Natural holds leases and other property interests in approximately 12,000 net acres of underground natural gas storage in Oregon and easements and other property interests related to pipelines associated with these facilities. NW Natural owns rights to depleted gas reservoirs near Mist, Oregon that are continuing to be developed and operated as underground gas storage facilities. NW Natural also holds all future storage rights in certain other areas of the Mist gas field in Oregon in addition to other leases and property interests.

NW Natural owns LNG storage facilities in Portland and near Newport, Oregon.

A portion of these properties are used in the NWN Gas Utility segment.

**<u>SiEnergy's Distribution Properties</u>** 

SiEnergy owns and maintains natural gas pipeline systems that consist of distribution mains, transmission mains, and service lines located in its territory in Texas. In addition, the pipeline system includes service regulators and meters, as well as district regulators and metering stations. Natural gas pipelines are located in public rights-of-way pursuant to franchise agreements, ordinances, or other legal rights, or on lands of others pursuant to easements obtained from the owners of such lands. SiEnergy also holds permits for the crossing of numerous railroads throughout our service territory.

SiEnergy also holds leases in various locations within Texas to support its business.

**<u>NWN Water's Properties</u>** 

NWN Water owns and maintains water distribution pipes, storage, wells and other infrastructure and wastewater treatment facilities, and holds related leases and other property interests in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Texas, Arizona. Pipelines are located in municipal streets or alleys pursuant to franchise or occupation ordinances, in county roads or state highways pursuant to agreements or permits granted pursuant to statute, or on lands of others pursuant to easements obtained from the owners of such lands.

NWN Water also holds leases in various locations within Oregon, Washington, Idaho and Arizona to support its business.

We consider all of our properties currently used in our operations, both owned and leased, to be well maintained, in good operating condition, and, along with planned additions, adequate for our present and foreseeable future needs.

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ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

Other than the proceedings disclosed in Note 17 to Consolidated Financial Statements, we have only nonmaterial litigation in the ordinary course of business.

ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not applicable.

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PART II

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

NW Holdings' common stock is listed and trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol NWN.

There is no established public trading market for NW Natural's common stock.

As of February 12, 2026, there were 3,544 holders of record of NW Holdings' common stock and NW Holdings was the sole holder of NW Natural's common stock.

For more information regarding cash dividends declared on our common stock and dividend policies, see "Financial Condition -

*Liquidity and Capital Resources*" in Item 7 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

**<u>Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities</u>**

The following table provides information about purchases of NW Holdings' equity securities that are registered pursuant to Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, during the quarter ended December 31, 2025:

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| Period | Total Number<br>of Shares Purchased<sup>(1)</sup> | Average<br>Price Paid per Share | Total Number of Shares<br>Purchased as Part of<br>Publicly Announced Plans or Programs<sup>(2)</sup> | Maximum Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs<sup>(2)</sup> |
| Balance forward |  |  | 2124528 | $150000000 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;10/01/24-10/31/24 |  | $— |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;11/01/24-11/30/24 |  | $— |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;12/01/24-12/31/24 |  | $— |  |  |
| Total |  |  | 2124528 | $150000000 |

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<sup>1.</sup>During the quarter ended December 31, 2025, no shares of common stock were purchased on the open market to meet the requirements of NW Holdings' Dividend Reinvestment and Direct Stock Purchase Plan. During the quarter ended December 31, 2025, no shares of NW Holdings common stock were purchased on the open market to meet the requirements of share-based compensation programs.

<sup>2.</sup>During the quarter ended December 31, 2025, no shares of NW Holdings common stock were repurchased pursuant to the Board approved share repurchase program. Effective May 23, 2024, NW Holdings' Board authorized a new share repurchase program under which NW Holdings may repurchase in open market or privately negotiated transactions up to an aggregate of 5 million shares or an amount not to exceed $150 million. The new share repurchase program is authorized to continue until the program is used, terminated or replaced. The repurchase program replaces the Company's previously authorized share repurchase program, which commenced in 2000 and authorized the repurchase of up to 2.8 million shares, or an amount not to exceed $100 million, in the aggregate. For more information on our share repurchase program, see Note 5.

ITEM 6. RESERVED

Not applicable.

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following is management's assessment of NW Holdings' and NW Natural's financial condition, including the principal factors that affect results of operations. The discussion covers the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024, and 2023 and refers to the consolidated results of NW Holdings, the substantial majority of which consist of the operating results of NW Natural. When significant activity exists at NW Holdings that does not exist at NW Natural, additional disclosure has been provided. References in this discussion to "Notes" are to the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of this report.

NW Natural's natural gas distribution activities are reported in the NWN Gas Utility segment, which was previously referred to as the natural gas distribution (NGD) segment prior to 2025, serving customers in Oregon and southwest Washington. The NWN Gas Utility segment also includes NWN Gas Reserves, which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Energy Corp, the NWN Gas Utility-portion of NW Natural's Mist storage facility in Oregon, and NW Natural RNG Holding Company, LLC, a holding company established to invest in the development and procurement of regulated renewable natural gas for NW Natural.

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SiEnergy Gas Utility, which was acquired on January 7, 2025, is a regulated natural gas distribution utility and serves residential and commercial customers in the greater metropolitan areas of Houston, Dallas, and Austin, Texas. SiEnergy also includes a natural gas transmission utility serving customers in the greater metropolitan areas of Dallas and Austin, Texas. SiEnergy activities are reported in the SiEnergy Gas Utility segment.

NWN Water Utility is a regulated water and wastewater utility serving residential and commercial customers in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Texas, and Arizona. The activities of NWN Water are reported in the NWN Water segment, which also includes non-regulated water and wastewater services businesses in Oregon, Washington and Idaho, and an equity method investment in Avion Water Company, Inc. In addition, NWN Water provides water services to communities throughout the Pacific Northwest and California.

Other activities for NW Holdings, aggregated and reported as NW Holdings Other, include NWN Renewables and its non-regulated renewable natural gas activities; NW Natural's interstate storage and asset management activities and appliance retail center; and NNG Financial's investment in Kelso-Beaver Pipeline (KB Pipeline), which is accounted for under the equity method.

See Note 4 for further discussion of our business segments and other, as well as our direct and indirect wholly-owned subsidiaries.

**<u>Non-GAAP Financial Measures</u>**

In addition to presenting diluted earnings per share for NW Holdings, we present diluted earnings per share for each of our segments (Segment EPS), which is a non-GAAP financial measure. We calculate Segment EPS by dividing the net income of each of our segments calculated in accordance with GAAP by the number of diluted shares outstanding for NW Holdings. We use Segment EPS to analyze our financial performance because we believe it provides useful information to our investors, analysts and creditors in evaluating our financial condition and results of operations of each of our segments. We believe investors find Segment EPS to be a useful indicator of our performance.

Segment EPS should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, diluted earnings per share or other measures calculated in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Moreover, Segment EPS has limitations in it does not reflect all the items associated with the operations of the business as determined in accordance with GAAP. Other companies may calculate similarly titled non-GAAP financial measures differently than how such measures are calculated in this report, limiting the usefulness of those measures for comparative purposes. A reconciliation of Segment EPS to diluted earnings per share is provided below.

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Diluted EPS - Total<sup>(1)</sup> | $2.77 | $2.03 | $2.59 |
| NWN Gas Utility<sup>(2)</sup> | 2.69 | 1.98 | 2.59 |
| SiEnergy Gas Utility<sup>(2)</sup> | 0.33 |  |  |
| NWN Water Utility<sup>(2)</sup> | 0.35 | 0.14 | 0.03 |
| NW Holdings Other<sup>(2)</sup> | (0.60) | (0.09) | (0.03) |

---

<sup>(1)</sup> Total Diluted EPS is equal to the sum of Diluted EPS for NWN Gas Utility, SiEnergy, NWN Water and NW Holdings Other.

<sup>(2)</sup> Non-GAAP financial measure. See Non-GAAP Financial Measures--Segment Earnings Per Share for definition, reconciliation and additional information.

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***EXECUTIVE SUMMARY***

NW Holdings' financial results and highlights for the year include:

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
| *In millions* | Amount | Amount | Amount |
| Consolidated |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net income | $113.3 | $78.9 | $93.9 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Diluted EPS | $2.77 | $2.03 | $2.59 |

---

• For the year ended December 31, 2025, net income increased by $34.4 million or $0.74 per diluted share.

• The increase in net income is primarily driven by new rates at NW Natural in Oregon, effective November 1, 2024 and October 31, 2025. In addition, we acquired SiEnergy in January 2025, and implemented new rates at our largest water utility in Arizona. These benefits were partially offset by an increase in interest expense, operations and maintenance expense, and depreciation expense.

• Customer growth was 11.1%, driven by the Texas gas utility acquisitions and organic water growth.

• Capital expenditures were $466.9 million, as we continue to invest in our utility systems to support safety and reliability.

NW Natural's financial results and highlights for the year include:

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
| *In millions* | Amount | Amount | Amount |
| Consolidated |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net income | $124.2 | $89.0 | $104.7 |

---

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

• For the year ended December 31, 2025, net income increased by $35.2 million.

• The increase in net income is primarily driven by new rates in Oregon, effective November 1, 2024 and October 31, 2025. This benefit was partially offset by increases in depreciation expense, income tax expense and operations and maintenance expense.

• Capital Expenditures were $355.1 million due primarily to continued investments to support the safety and reliability of the NW Natural Gas Utility.

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***RESULTS OF SEGMENTS***

**<u>NWN GAS UTILITY SEGMENT RESULTS.</u>**

NWN Gas Utility margin results are primarily affected by customer growth, revenues from rate-base additions, and, to a certain extent, by changes in delivered volumes due to weather and customers' gas usage patterns. In addition to NW Natural's local gas distribution business, the NWN Gas Utility segment also includes the portion of the Mist underground storage facility used to serve NWN Gas Utility customers, the North Mist gas storage operations, NWN Gas Reserves, which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Energy Corp., and NW Natural RNG Holding Company, LLC.

---

| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | | | | 2025 vs. 2024 | 2024 vs. 2023 |
| *In thousands, except per share data* | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2025 vs. 2024 | 2024 vs. 2023 |
| Margin<sup>(1)</sup> | $680149 | $601278 | $575008 | $78871 | $26270 |
| Operating expenses: |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operations and maintenance | 264273 | 253297 | 241721 | 10976 | 11576 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;General taxes | 48045 | 46235 | 44279 | 1810 | 1956 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Depreciation | 147882 | 128524 | 118417 | 19358 | 10107 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other operating expenses |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total operating expenses | 460200 | 428056 | 404417 | 32144 | 23639 |
| Income from operations | 219949 | 173222 | 170591 | 46727 | 2631 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other income (expense), net | (6535) | (3033) | 15158 | (3502) | (18191) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interest expense, net | 61440 | 62868 | 60020 | (1428) | 2848 |
| Income before income taxes | 151974 | 107321 | 125729 | 44653 | (18408) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Income tax expense | 41952 | 30195 | 31688 | 11757 | (1493) |
| Net income | $110022 | $77126 | $94041 | $32896 | $(16915) |
| EPS<sup>(2)</sup> | $2.69 | $1.98 | $2.59 | $0.71 | $(0.61) |

---

<sup>(1)</sup> See NWN Gas Utility Margin Table below for additional detail.

<sup>(2)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>Non-GAAP financial measure. See Non-GAAP Financial Measures—Segment Earnings Per Share for definition, reconciliation and additional information.

**2025 COMPARED TO 2024.** The primary factors contributing to the $32.9 million increase in NWN Gas Utility net income were as follows:

• $78.9 million increase in margin driven primarily by new rates on November 1, 2024 and October 31, 2025 for Oregon customers; partially offset by a decrease in the amortization of deferred balances. See the NWN Gas Utility margin table below for additional margin detail.

The increase in margin was partially offset by the following items:

• $19.4 million increase in depreciation expense due to additional capital investments;

• $11.8 million increase in income tax due to higher pre-tax income; and

• $11.0 million increase in operations and maintenance expenses due primarily to higher payroll and benefit costs and an increase in contract labor costs, partially offset by the disallowance of undepreciated line extension costs as ordered in the 2024 Oregon general rate case.

Total natural gas sold and delivered in 2025 decreased 5% over 2024 primarily due to lower usage from residential and commercial sales customers, pulp and paper industrial sales and transportation customers, and 20% warmer than average weather in 2025 compared to 17% warmer than average weather in 2024.

**2024 COMPARED TO 2023.** The primary factors contributing to the $16.9 million decrease in net income were as follows:

• $18.2 million decrease in other income, net driven by higher pension non-service costs, lower interest income from invested cash, lower regulatory interest income and a decline in the equity portion of AFUDC;

• $13.7 million decrease due to the disallowance of undepreciated line extension costs as ordered in the 2024 Oregon general rate case; and

• $10.1 million increase in depreciation expense due to additional capital investments; partially offset by

• $26.3 million increase in margin primarily due to new rates on November 1, 2024 for Oregon customers; partially offset by lower usage from warmer comparative weather for customers not covered under the weather normalization mechanism. See the NWN Gas Utility margin table below for additional margin detail.

Total natural gas sold and delivered in 2024 decreased 3% over 2023 primarily due to 17% warmer than average weather in 2024 compared to 8% warmer than average weather in 2023.

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**NATURAL GAS UTILITY MARGIN TABLE.** The following table summarizes the composition of gas volumes, revenues, and cost of sales:

---

| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | | | | Favorable (Unfavorable) | Favorable (Unfavorable) |
| *In thousands, except degree day and customer data* | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2025 vs. 2024 | 2024 vs. 2023 |
| <u>Volumes (therms):</u> |  |  |  |  |  |
| Residential and commercial sales | 671009 | 708873 | 735755 | (37864) | (26882) |
| Industrial sales and transportation | 440416 | 461966 | 470919 | (21550) | (8953) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total volumes sold and delivered | 1111425 | 1170839 | 1206674 | (59414) | (35835) |
| <u>Operating revenues:</u> |  |  |  |  |  |
| Residential and commercial sales | $993821 | $968676 | $1015072 | $25145 | $(46396) |
| Industrial sales and transportation | 77431 | 83060 | 97886 | (5629) | (14826) |
| Other distribution revenues | 4859 | 4435 | 4540 | 424 | (105) |
| Other regulated services | 20674 | 19517 | 18902 | 1157 | 615 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total operating revenues | 1096785 | 1075688 | 1136400 | 21097 | (60712) |
| Less: Cost of gas | 356126 | 412320 | 500061 | 56194 | 87741 |
| Less: Environmental remediation expense | 14623 | 14053 | 12899 | (570) | (1154) |
| Less: Revenue taxes | 45887 | 48037 | 48432 | 2150 | 395 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Margin | $680149 | $601278 | $575008 | $78871 | $26270 |
| <u>Margin</u><sup>(1)</sup> |  |  |  |  |  |
| Residential and commercial sales | $619733 | $540947 | $512479 | $78786 | $28468 |
| Industrial sales and transportation | 34008 | 34101 | 34748 | (93) | (647) |
| Gain from gas cost incentive sharing<sup>(2)</sup> | 868 | 2624 | 4459 | (1756) | (1835) |
| Other margin | 4867 | 4096 | 4426 | 771 | (330) |
| Other regulated services | 20673 | 19510 | 18896 | 1163 | 614 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Margin | $680149 | $601278 | $575008 | $78871 | $26270 |
| <u>Cost of Gas Sold</u> |  |  |  |  |  |
| Volumes sold (therms)<sup>(3)</sup> | 762535 | 803104 | 838080 | (40569) | (34976) |
| Average cost of gas (cents per therm) | $0.47 | $0.51 | $0.60 | $(0.04) | $(0.09) |
| <u>Degree days</u><sup>(4)</sup> |  |  |  |  |  |
| Average<sup>(5)</sup> | 2690 | 2702 | 2686 | (12) | 16 |
| Actual | 2165 | 2255 | 2480 | (4)% | (9)% |
| Percent (warmer) colder than average weather | (20)% | (17)% | (8)% |  |  |
| <u>Meters - end of period:</u> |  |  |  |  |  |
| Residential meters | 739337 | 735117 | 728915 | 4220 | 6202 |
| Commercial meters | 69214 | 69362 | 69273 | (148) | 89 |
| Industrial meters | 1046 | 1050 | 1062 | (4) | (12) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total number of meters | 809597 | 805529 | 799250 | 4068 | 6279 |
| <u>NWN Gas Utility meter growth:</u> |  |  |  |  |  |
| Residential meters | 0.6% | 0.9% |  |  |  |
| Commercial meters | (0.2)% | 0.1% |  |  |  |
| Industrial meters | (0.4)% | (1.1)% |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total meter growth | 0.5% | 0.8% |  |  |  |

---

<sup>(1)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>Amounts reported as NWN Gas Utility margin for each category of meters are operating revenues less cost of gas, environmental remediation expense and revenue taxes, subject to earnings test considerations, as applicable.

<sup>(2)</sup> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;For additional information regarding NW Natural's gas cost incentive sharing mechanism, see "Results of Operations—Regulatory Matters—Rate Mechanisms—Purchased Gas Adjustment".

<sup>(3)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>This calculation excludes volumes delivered to industrial transportation customers.

<sup>(4)</sup> Heating degree days are units of measure reflecting temperature-sensitive consumption of natural gas, calculated by subtracting the average of a day's high and low temperatures from 59 degrees Fahrenheit.

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<sup>(5)</sup> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Average weather represents the 25-year average of heating degree days. Beginning October 31, 2025, average weather is calculated over the period June 1, 1999 through May 31, 2024, as determined in NW Natural's 2025 Oregon general rate case. From November 1, 2024 through October 30, 2025, average weather was calculated over the period June 1, 1998 through May 31, 2023, as determined in NW Natural's 2024 Oregon general rate case. From November 1, 2022 through October 31, 2024, average weather was calculated over the period June 1, 1996 through May 31, 2021, as determined in NW Natural's 2022 Oregon general rate case.

**<u>SIENERGY GAS UTILITY SEGMENT RESULTS.</u>**

SiEnergy results and highlights include:

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| *In thousands, except per share data* | 2025 |
| Margin<sup>(1)</sup> | $44216 |
| Operating expenses: |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operations and maintenance | 8642 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;General taxes | 1143 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Depreciation | 7873 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total operating expenses | 17658 |
| Income from operations | 26558 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other income, net | 657 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interest expense, net | 9608 |
| Income before income taxes | 17607 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Income tax expense | 3870 |
| Net income | $13737 |
| EPS<sup>(2)</sup> | $0.33 |

---

<sup>(1)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>See SiEnergy Gas Utility Margin Table below for additional detail.

<sup>(2)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>Non-GAAP financial measure. See Non-GAAP Financial Measures--Segment Earnings Per Share for definition, reconciliation and additional information.

SiEnergy was acquired by NW Holdings on January 7, 2025. Results for the period from January 7, 2025 to December 31, 2025 are presented in the table above. SiEnergy acquired Pines on June 2, 2025, and Pines results from June 2, 2025 to December 31, 2025 are included in the table above. Prior to January 7, 2025, NW Holdings did not operate any assets that fall within its SiEnergy Gas Utility segment.

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**SIENERGY GAS UTILITY MARGIN TABLE.** The following table summarizes the composition of gas volumes, revenues, and cost of sales:

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| *In thousands, except degree day and customer data* | 2025 |
| <u>Volumes (therms)</u> |  |
| Residential and commercial sales | 31398 |
| Transportation | 4481 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total volumes sold and delivered | 35879 |
| <u>Operating Revenues</u> |  |
| Residential and commercial sales | 62686 |
| Transportation | 807 |
| Other distribution revenues | 2491 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total operating revenues | 65984 |
| Less: Cost of gas | 19892 |
| Less: Revenue taxes | 1876 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Margin | 44216 |
| Margin<sup>(1)</sup> |  |
| Residential and commercial sales | 40970 |
| Transportation | 755 |
| Other margin | 2491 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Margin | 44216 |
| <u>Cost of Gas Detail</u> |  |
| Volumes sold (therms)<sup>(2)</sup> | 31398 |
| Average cost of gas (cents per therm) | 0.63 |
| <u>Degree days</u><sup>(3)</sup> |  |
| Average<sup>(4)</sup> | 1297 |
| Actual | 1191 |
| Percent (warmer) colder than average weather<sup>(4)</sup> | -8% |
| <u>Meters</u> | As of December 31, 2025 |
| Residential | 89019 |
| Commercial | 657 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | 89676 |

---

<sup>(1)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>Amounts reported as SiEnergy margin for each category of meters are operating revenues less cost of gas and revenue taxes.

<sup>(2)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>This calculation excludes volumes delivered to transportation customers.

<sup>(3)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>Heating degree days are units of measure reflecting temperature-sensitive consumption of natural gas. SiEnergy calculates heating degree days by subtracting the average of a day's high and low temperatures from 65 degrees Fahrenheit.

<sup>(4)</sup> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;SiEnergy average weather represents the 10-year average of heating degree days. Beginning October 1, 2023 average weather is calculated over the period April 1, 2013 through March 31, 2023, as determined in SiEnergy's 2023 Texas general rate case.

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**<u>NWN WATER UTILITY SEGMENT RESULTS.</u>** 

NWN Water results and highlights include:

---

| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| *In thousands, except per share data* | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | YTD Change | PY Change |
| Operating revenues | $65646 | $52036 | $38852 | $13610 | $13184 |
| Operating expenses: |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operations and maintenance | 33139 | 28760 | 21604 | 4379 | 7156 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;General taxes | 2042 | 1703 | 1264 | 339 | 439 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Revenue taxes | 402 | 306 | 239 | 96 | 67 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Depreciation | 8514 | 8296 | 6067 | 218 | 2229 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other operating expenses | 2643 | 3036 | 3109 | (393) | (73) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total operating expenses | 46740 | 42101 | 32283 | 4639 | 9818 |
| Income from operations | 18906 | 9935 | 6569 | 8971 | 3366 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other income, net | 1808 | 1415 | 951 | 393 | 464 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interest expense, net | 3048 | 3815 | 5965 | (767) | (2150) |
| Income before income taxes | 17666 | 7535 | 1555 | 10131 | 5980 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Income tax expense | 3511 | 2069 | 450 | 1442 | 1619 |
| Net income | $14155 | $5466 | $1105 | $8689 | $4361 |
| EPS<sup>(1)</sup> | $0.35 | $0.14 | $0.03 | $0.21 | $0.11 |
| <u>Connections</u> | As of December 31, 2025 | As of December 31, 2024 | As of December 31, 2023 | Growth | Growth |
| Water and wastewater | 80703 | 76401 | 73021 | 5.6% | 4.6% |

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<sup>(1)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>Non-GAAP financial measure. See Non-GAAP Financial Measures--Segment Earnings Per Share for definition, reconciliation and additional information.

**2025 COMPARED TO 2024.** The primary factors contributing to the $8.7 million increase in net income were as follows:

• $13.6 million increase in operating revenues primarily driven by new rates at our largest utility in Arizona, additional revenues from the water acquisitions, and organic customer growth; partially offset by

• $4.4 million increase in operations and maintenance expenses primarily due to acquisitions and organic growth; and

• $1.4 million increase in income tax expense due primarily to higher pre-tax income.

**2024 COMPARED TO 2023.** The primary factors contributing to the $4.4 million increase in net income were as follows:

• $13.2 million increase in operating revenues primarily driven by new rates at our largest utility in Arizona, organic customer growth, and additional revenues from the water acquisitions; and

• $2.2 million decrease in interest expense due primarily to lower long-term debt balances as $50.0 million of NWN Water debt matured in March 2024 and was not replaced at NWN Water; partially offset by

• $7.2 million increase in operations and maintenance expenses primarily due to acquisitions;

• $2.2 million increase in depreciation expense due primarily to acquisitions; and

• $1.6 million increase in income tax expense due primarily to higher pre-tax income.

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**<u>NW HOLDINGS OTHER RESULTS.</u>**

NW Holdings' activities in Other includes activities of NW Natural Renewables Holdings, LLC (NWN Renewables), which is engaged in non-regulated renewable natural gas activities; NNG Financial and its pipeline assets; and NWN Energy including its wholly-owned subsidiary NW Natural Gas Storage, LLC (NWN Gas Storage), which was formerly involved in a gas storage business. Other also includes corporate revenues and expenses that cannot be allocated to other operations, including certain business development activities. NW Holdings Other also includes NW Natural Other activities which includes activities in Interstate Storage Services and third-party asset management services, appliance retail center operations, and corporate operating and non-operating revenues and expenses that cannot be allocated to NWN Gas Utility operations.

Other results and highlights include:

---

| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| *In thousands, except per share data* | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | YTD Change | PY Change |
| Operating revenues | $60948 | $25270 | $22223 | $35678 | $3047 |
| Operating expenses: |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cost of gas | 19558 | 62 | (224) | 19496 | 286 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operations and maintenance | 21311 | 12601 | 10441 | 8710 | 2160 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;General taxes | 816 | 734 | 705 | 82 | 29 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Depreciation | 1237 | 1078 | 1097 | 159 | (19) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other operating expenses | 2548 | 2810 | 2423 | (262) | 387 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total operating expenses | 45470 | 17285 | 14442 | 28185 | 2843 |
| Income from operations | 15478 | 7985 | 7781 | 7493 | 204 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other income, net | 370 | 510 | 1746 | (140) | (1236) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interest expense, net | 48417 | 13409 | 10581 | 35008 | 2828 |
| Loss before income taxes | (32569) | (4914) | (1054) | (27655) | (3860) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Income tax expense (benefit) | (7974) | (1193) | 224 | (6781) | (1417) |
| Net loss | $(24595) | $(3721) | $(1278) | $(20874) | $(2443) |
| EPS<sup>(1)</sup> | $(0.60) | $(0.09) | $(0.03) | $(0.51) | $(0.06) |

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<sup>(1)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>Non-GAAP financial measure. See Non-GAAP Financial Measures--Segment Earnings Per Share for definition, reconciliation and additional information.

**2025 COMPARED TO 2024.** The primary factors contributing to the $20.9 million, increase in net loss were as follows:

• $35.0 million increase in interest expense due primarily to higher long-term debt at NW Holdings from bonds issued in December 2024, Junior Subordinated Debentures issued in March 2025 and higher commercial paper balances;

• $8.7 million increase in operations and maintenance expenses due primarily to transaction and business development costs; partially offset by

• $16.2 million increase primarily from NWN Renewables operating revenues net of cost of gas.

**2024 COMPARED TO 2023.** The primary factors contributing to the $2.4 million increase in net loss were as follows:

• $2.8 million increase in interest expense due primarily to higher long-term debt at NW Holdings from bonds issued in March 2024; and

• $2.2 million increase in operations and maintenance expenses due primarily to transaction and business development costs; partially offset by

• $3.0 million increase in operating revenues primarily driven by higher gas storage revenues.

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**CURRENT ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL CONDITIONS**. Current economic and political conditions are reviewed and monitored on an ongoing basis for potential impacts to our business. This includes changes in inflation and interest rates, tariffs or trade restrictions, geopolitical uncertainty, supply chain disruptions, and other regulatory, physical or cyber related risks impacting our business. Further, we review U.S. federal, state and local policies, executive orders, rules, initiatives and other changes to fiscal, tax, regulation, environmental, climate and other federal policies including federal shutdowns that may impact our businesses, all of which could impact the conditions in which we operate.

We continue to evaluate the effect of additional tariffs on our businesses, specifically natural gas imports at our gas utilities. SiEnergy, located in Texas, does not import natural gas. NWN Gas Utility imported approximately 60% of our natural gas from Canada in 2025. NWN Gas Utility's third-party asset manager imports the majority of NWN Gas Utility's gas each year and is not subject to tariffs because they are a United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) certified importer of record. NWN Gas Utility is a USMCA certified importer. We've evaluated tariffs across our businesses and at this time, we do not anticipate the currently implemented tariffs to have a material impact on our businesses. We continue to evaluate the potential impact of efforts to impose new or modified tariffs and the legal proceedings that may impact them.

During 2025, supply chain conditions stabilized and lead times generally returned to normalized levels. For critical equipment and materials, we undertake extensive planning and make purchases in advance or maintain the appropriate amount of inventory to support our businesses.

For all of our businesses, we continuously monitor interest rates and financing options. Our regulated utilities generally recover interest expense on their long-term debt through their authorized cost of capital.

See the discussion in "*Results of Operations*", "*Regulatory Matters*" and "*Financial Condition*" below for additional detail regarding all significant activity that occurred during 2025.

**<u>Regulatory Matters</u>**

**NWN GAS UTILITY**

NW Natural's natural gas distribution business is subject to regulation by the OPUC and WUTC with respect to, among other matters, rates and terms of service, systems of accounts, and issuances of securities by NWN Natural Gas Utility. In 2025, approximately 88% of NWN Gas Utility customers were located in Oregon, with the remaining 12% in Washington. Earnings and cash flows from natural gas distribution operations are largely determined by rates set in general rate cases and other proceedings in Oregon and Washington. They are also affected by weather, the local economies in Oregon and Washington, the pace of customer growth in the residential, commercial, and industrial markets, legislation policy, customer preferences and NWN Gas Utility's ability to remain price competitive, control expenses, and obtain reasonable and timely regulatory recovery of its natural gas distribution-related costs, including operating expenses and investment costs in plant and other regulatory assets. NW Natural continuously evaluates the need for rate cases in its jurisdictions. See "*Most Recent Completed Rate Cases*" below.

<u>Most Recent Completed Rate Cases</u>

**2025 OREGON RATE CASE.** On October 24, 2025, the OPUC issued a final order in the Rate Case approving three prior multi-party stipulations and resolving the remaining open items in the Rate Case. New rates authorized by the OPUC were effective October 31, 2025. The final order provided for a total revenue requirement increase of $20.7 million over revenues from existing rates, which includes approximately $4.8 million related to an updated depreciation study. The revenue requirement is based on the following assumptions:

• Capital structure of 50% common equity and 50% long-term debt;

• Cost of long-term debt of 4.74%

• Return on equity of 9.5%, and

• Overall cost of capital of 7.12%

Average rate base after final adjustments for completed capital projects was $2.27 billion or an increase of $180.1 million since the last rate case.

**WASHINGTON.** On October 21, 2021, the WUTC issued an order concluding NW Natural's general rate case filed in December 2020 (WUTC Order). The WUTC Order provides for an annual revenue requirement increase over two years, consisting of a 6.4% or $5.0 million increase in the first year beginning November 1, 2021 (Year One), and up to a 3.5% or $3.0 million increase in the second year beginning November 1, 2022 (Year Two). The increase is based on the following assumptions:

• Cost of capital of 6.814%; and

• Average rate base of $194.7 million, an increase of $20.9 million since the last rate case for capital expenditures already expended at the time of filing, with an additional expected $31.2 million increase in Year One, and an additional expected $21.4 million increase in Year Two, with the increases in Year One and Year Two relating to expected capital expenditures in those years.

------

The WUTC Order does not specify the underlying inputs to the cost of capital, including capital structure and return on equity. New rates authorized by the WUTC Order were effective November 1, 2021. In September 2023, NW Natural received a letter of compliance from the WUTC acknowledging that the Year Two rates are no longer subject to review and refund.

NW Natural continuously evaluates the need for rate cases in its jurisdictions.

<u>Regulatory Proceeding Updates</u>

**2025 WASHINGTON RATE CASE.** On August 29, 2025, NW Natural filed a request for a general rate increase with the WUTC under Washington's multi-year rate plan statute.

This multi-year rate plan filing includes requested increases in the annual revenue requirement over three years, consisting of a $25.6 million revenue increase in the first year beginning August 1, 2026 (Year 1), an $8.6 million revenue increase in the second year beginning August 1, 2027 (Year 2) and an $8.3 million revenue increase in the third year beginning August 1, 2028 (Year 3). The filing is based upon the following assumptions or requests:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **Year 1** | **Year 2** | **Year 3** |
| **Revenue Requirement Increase** | $25.6 million | $8.6 million | $8.3 million |
| **Capital Structure** | • 48.0% long-term debt<br>• 1.0% short-term debt<br>• 51.0% common equity | • 48.0% long-term debt<br>• 1.0% short-term debt<br>• 51.0% common equity | • 48.0% long-term debt<br>• 1.0% short-term debt<br>• 51.0% common equity |
| **Return on Equity** | 10.1% | 10.2% | 10.2% |
| **Overall Rate of Return** | 7.505% | 7.623% | 7.661% |
| **Average Rate Base** | $341.8 million<sup>(1)</sup> | $381.4 million | $422.7 million |

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<sup>(1)</sup> Represents an increase of $94.5 million since the last rate case.

The filing reflects the effects of inflation, an updated depreciation study, and long-planned investments primarily supporting system safety and reliability, including investments at NW Natural's Mist gas storage facility, modernization of metering infrastructure and replacement of end-of-life information technology.

NW Natural's filing will be reviewed by the WUTC and other stakeholders. The process is anticipated to take up to 11 months with new rates expected to take effect August 1, 2026.

<u>Rate Mechanisms</u>

During 2025 and 2024, NW Natural's key approved rates and recovery mechanisms for each service area included:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | Oregon | Oregon | Washington |
| | 2025 Rate Case (effective 10/31/2025) | 2024 Rate Case (effective 11/1/2024) | 2021 Rate Case <br>(effective 11/1/2021) |
| Authorized Rate Structure: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Return on Equity | 9.5% | 9.4% | \*\* |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Rate of Return | 7.1% | 7.1% | 6.8% |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Debt/Equity Ratio | 50%/50% | 50%/50% | \*\* |
| Key Regulatory Mechanisms: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Purchased Gas Adjustment (PGA) | X | X | X |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Gas Cost Incentive Sharing | X | X |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Decoupling | X | X |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Weather Normalization (WARM) | X | X |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;RNG Automatic Adjustment Clause | X | X |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Environmental Cost Recovery | X | X | X |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Interstate Storage and Asset Management Sharing | X | X | X |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;\*\* The WUTC Order does not specify the underlying inputs to the cost of capital, including capital structure and return on equity. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;\*\* The WUTC Order does not specify the underlying inputs to the cost of capital, including capital structure and return on equity. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;\*\* The WUTC Order does not specify the underlying inputs to the cost of capital, including capital structure and return on equity. | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;\*\* The WUTC Order does not specify the underlying inputs to the cost of capital, including capital structure and return on equity. |

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Annually, or more often if circumstances warrant, NW Natural reviews all regulatory assets for recoverability. If NW Natural should determine all or a portion of these regulatory assets no longer meet the criteria for continued application of regulatory accounting, then NW Natural would be required to write-off the net unrecoverable balances against earnings in the period such a determination was made.

**PURCHASED GAS ADJUSTMENT.** Rate changes are established for NW Natural each year under purchased gas adjustment (PGA) mechanisms in Oregon and Washington to reflect changes in the expected cost of natural gas commodity purchases. The PGA filings include costs for gas purchases, gas commodity derivative contracts, gas storage costs, gas reserves costs, pipeline demand costs, renewable natural gas and its environmental attributes, including renewable thermal certificates, and temporary rate adjustments, which amortize balances of deferred regulatory accounts.

In September 2025, NW Natural filed its annual PGAs and received OPUC and WUTC approval in October. The PGA rate changes became effective on October 31, 2025, in Oregon and on November 1, 2025 in Washington. Rates vary between states due to different rate structures, rate mechanisms and hedging policies.

Each year, NW Natural hedges gas prices on a portion of NW Natural's annual sales requirement based on normal weather, including both physical and financial hedges. As of December 31, 2025, NW Natural's forecasted sales volume was hedged at approximately 79% in total for the 2025-26 gas year, including 64% in financial hedges and 15% in physical gas supplies. The total hedged was approximately 84% in Oregon and 33% in Washington.

For the subsequent two gas years, NW Natural is hedged in total between 15% and 26% for annual requirements. Hedge levels are subject to change based on actual load volumes, which depend to a certain extent on weather, economic conditions, and estimated gas reserve production. Also, gas storage inventory levels may increase or decrease with storage expansion, changes in storage contracts with third parties, variations in the heat content of the gas, and/or storage recall by NW Natural. We will continue to monitor gas prices as we fill storage and look at hedging plans for future gas years. Gas purchases and hedges entered into for the upcoming PGA year will be included in the Company's PGA filings in Oregon and Washington.

Under the current PGA mechanism in Oregon, there is an incentive sharing provision whereby NW Natural is required to select each year an 80% deferral or a 90% deferral of higher or lower actual gas costs compared to estimated PGA prices, such that the impact on NW Natural's current earnings from the incentive sharing is either 20% or 10% of the difference between actual and estimated gas costs, respectively. For the 2025-26 and 2024-25 gas years, NW Natural selected the 90% deferral option. Under the Washington PGA mechanism, NW Natural defers 100% of the higher or lower actual gas costs, and those gas cost differences are passed on to customers through the annual PGA rate adjustment.

As of May 1, 2025, 0.2 million therms per day of deliverability and 0.3 Bcf of associated non-utility Mist gas storage capacity was recalled to serve core customers. Customer rate increases related to this recall began for Oregon customers on October 31, 2025, and November 1, 2025 for Washington customers.

**CLIMATE COMMITMENT ACT.** Washington has enacted the Climate Commitment Act (CCA), which establishes a comprehensive program that includes an overall limit for GHG emissions from major sources in the state that declines yearly. The program began January 1, 2023. In December 2024, the WUTC re-authorized a CCA cost recovery mechanism with a rate effective date of January 1, 2025. Under this mechanism, NW Natural recovers CCA costs and will defer any difference between forecasted and actual costs in the following year. Additionally, under the approved tariff, proceeds from the sale of allowances, which is required under the CCA, would be used to offset CCA compliance costs for low-income customers. Any remaining proceeds would benefit other customers through fixed bill credits or use in other carbon reduction programs.

Additionally in December 2023, the WUTC approved a request to modify NW Natural's CCA deferral to allow for the recovery of interest from customers based on the actual cash paid for purchases of allowances, less proceeds received from the sale of allowances.

**EARNINGS TEST REVIEW.** NW Natural is subject to an annual earnings review in Oregon to determine if the NWN Gas Utility business is earning above its authorized ROE threshold. If NWN Gas Utility business earnings exceed a specific ROE level, then 33% of the amount above that level is required to be deferred or refunded to customers. Under this provision, if NW Natural selects the 80% deferral gas cost option, then NW Natural retains all earnings up to 150 basis points above the currently authorized ROE. If NW Natural selects the 90% deferral option, then it retains all earnings up to 100 basis points above the currently authorized ROE. For the 2024-25 and 2025-26 gas years, NW Natural selected the 90% deferral option. The ROE threshold is subject to adjustment annually based on movements in long-term interest rates. For calendar years 2023, 2024, and 2025, the ROE threshold was 10.40%. NWN Gas Utility filed the 2024 earnings test in April 2025, indicating no customer credit adjustment based on results, which was approved by the OPUC in July 2025. NW Natural does not expect a customer credit adjustment for 2025 based on preliminary results of the earnings test. We expect to file the earnings test in the second quarter of 2026.

**DECOUPLING.** In Oregon, NW Natural has a decoupling mechanism that covers residential and some commercial sales customers. Decoupling is intended to break the link between revenue and the quantity of gas consumed by customers, removing any financial incentive to discourage customers' efforts to conserve energy. This mechanism employs a use-per-customer decoupling calculation, which adjusts margin revenues to account for the difference between actual and expected customer

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volumes. The margin adjustment resulting from differences between actual and expected volumes under the decoupling component is recorded to a deferral account, which is included in the annual PGA filing. The 2025 Oregon general rate case reset the Oregon decoupling baseline usage per customer.

**WARM.** In Oregon, NW Natural has an approved weather normalization mechanism (WARM), which is applied to residential and small commercial customer bills. This mechanism is designed to help stabilize the collection of fixed costs by adjusting residential and small commercial customer billings based on temperature variances from average weather, with rate decreases when the weather is colder than average and rate increases when the weather is warmer than average. The mechanism is applied to bills from December through mid-May of each heating season. The mechanism adjusts the margin component of customers' rates to reflect average weather, which uses the 25-year average temperature for each day of the billing period. Daily average temperatures and 25-year average temperatures are based on a set point temperature of 59 degrees Fahrenheit for residential customers and 58 degrees Fahrenheit for commercial customers. The collections of any unbilled WARM amounts due to tariff caps and floors are deferred and earn a carrying charge until collected, or returned, along with the PGA the following year. Residential and small commercial customers in Oregon are allowed to opt out of the weather normalization mechanism, and as of December 31, 2025, 7% of total eligible customers had opted out. NW Natural does not have a weather normalization mechanism approved for Washington customers, which account for about 12% of total customers.

**INDUSTRIAL TARIFFS.** The OPUC and WUTC have approved tariffs covering NWN Gas Utility service to major industrial customers, which are intended to give NW Natural certainty in the level of gas supplies needed to serve this customer group. The approved terms include, among other things, an annual election period, special pricing provisions for out-of-cycle changes, and a requirement that industrial customers complete the term of their service election under NW Natural's annual PGA tariff.

**ENVIRONMENTAL COST DEFERRAL AND RECOVERY.** NW Natural has authorizations in Oregon and Washington to defer costs related to remediation of properties that are owned or were previously owned by NW Natural. In Oregon, a Site Remediation and Recovery Mechanism (SRRM) is currently in place to recover prudently incurred costs allocable to Oregon customers, subject to an earnings test. Effective beginning November 1, 2019, the WUTC authorized an Environmental Cost Recovery Mechanism (ECRM) for recovery of prudently incurred costs allocable to Washington customers.

<u>Oregon SRRM</u>

Under the Oregon SRRM collection process, there are three types of deferred environmental remediation expense:

• Pre-review - This class of costs represents remediation spend that has not yet been deemed prudent by the OPUC. Carrying costs on these remediation expenses are recorded at NW Natural's authorized cost of capital. NW Natural anticipates the prudence review for annual costs and approval of the earnings test prescribed by the OPUC to occur by the third quarter of the following year.

• Post-review - This class of costs represents remediation spend that has been deemed prudent and allowed after applying the earnings test, but is not yet included in amortization. NW Natural earns a carrying cost on these amounts at a rate equal to the five-year treasury rate plus 100 basis points.

• Amortization - This class of costs represents amounts included in current customer rates for collection and is calculated as one-fifth of the post-review deferred balance. NW Natural earns a carrying cost equal to the amortization rate determined annually by the OPUC, which approximates a short-term borrowing rate. NW Natural included $10.2 million and $8.8 million of deferred remediation expense approved by the OPUC for collection during the 2025-26 and 2024-25 PGA years, respectively.

In addition, the SRRM also provides for the annual collection of $5.0 million from Oregon customers through a tariff rider. As it collects amounts from customers, NW Natural recognizes these collections as revenue net of any earnings test adjustments and separately amortizes an equal and offsetting amount of the deferred regulatory asset balance through the environmental remediation operating expense line shown separately in the operating expenses section of the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss). See Note 17 for more information on our environmental matters.

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The SRRM earnings test is an annual review of adjusted NWN Gas Utility ROE compared to authorized NWN Gas Utility ROE. To apply the earnings test NW Natural must first determine what if any costs are subject to the test through the following calculation:

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| |
|:---|
| Annual spend |
| Less: $5.0 million base rate rider |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Prior year carry-over<sup>(1)</sup> |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $5.0 million insurance + interest on insurance |
| Total deferred annual spend subject to earnings test |
| Less: over-earnings adjustment, if any |
| Add: deferred interest on annual spend<sup>(2)</sup> |
| Total amount transferred to post-review |

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<sup>(1)</sup> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Prior year carry-over results when the prior year amount transferred to post-review is negative. The negative amount is carried over to offset annual spend in the following year.

<sup>(2)</sup> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deferred interest is added to annual spend to the extent the spend is recoverable.

To the extent the NWN Gas Utility business earns at or below its authorized ROE as defined in the SRRM, the total amount transferred to post-review is recoverable through the SRRM. To the extent more than authorized ROE is earned in a year, the amount transferred to post-review would be reduced by those earnings that exceed its authorized ROE. For 2025, NW Natural has performed this test, which is anticipated to be submitted to the OPUC in May 2026. No earnings test adjustment is expected for 2025.

<u>Washington ECRM</u>

The ECRM established by the WUTC order effective November 1, 2019 permits NW Natural's recovery of environmental remediation expenses allocable to Washington customers. These expenses represent 3.32% of costs associated with remediation of sites that historically served both Oregon and Washington customers. The order allows for recovery of past deferred and future prudently incurred remediation costs allocable to Washington through application of insurance proceeds and collections from customers. Prudently incurred costs that were deferred from the initial deferral authorization in February 2011 through June 2019 were fully offset with insurance proceeds, with any remaining insurance proceeds to be amortized over a 10.5 year period. On an annual basis, NW Natural will file for a prudence determination and a request to recover remediation expenditures in excess of insurance amortizations in the following year's customer rates. After insurance proceeds are fully amortized, if in a particular year the request to collect deferred amounts exceeds one percent of Washington normalized revenues, then the excess will be collected over three years with interest.

**LOW INCOME DISCOUNT TARIFFS.** 

<u>Oregon</u>

NW Natural has an income-qualifying residential bill discount program, approved by the OPUC.The income threshold for program participation is at or below 60 percent of Oregon state median income (SMI). The program provides a bill discount for income-qualifying residential customers at four discount tier levels based on household income compared to SMI. Participating customers can self-certify their income and household size to qualify for the program directly with NW Natural or their local Community Action Agency. Costs for the bill discount program include simultaneous recovery from all customers. Costs for the bill discount program, inclusive of start-up and administrative costs of the program, are recoverable in rates. The amount deferred to a regulatory liability as of December 31, 2025 was $1.8 million.

<u>Washington</u>

NW Natural has an income-qualifying residential bill discount program, approved by the WUTC. The Washington program is similar to the Oregon program. The income threshold for the Washington program participation is based on the greater of area median income (AMI) or federal poverty level (FPL). The amount deferred to a regulatory asset as of December 31, 2025 was $0.1 million.

**RENEWABLE NATURAL GAS AND AUTOMATIC ADJUSTMENT CLAUSE.** Oregon Senate Bill 98 (SB 98) enables natural gas utilities to procure or develop RNG, including hydrogen, on behalf of their Oregon customers. The legislation and rules set voluntary goals for adding as much as 30% RNG into the state's pipeline system by 2050; enables gas utilities to invest in and own the cleaning and conditioning equipment required to bring raw biogas and landfill gas up to pipeline quality, as well as the facilities to connect to the local gas distribution system; and allowing up to 5% of a utility's revenue requirement to be used to cover the incremental cost or investment in RNG infrastructure.

Further, the law supports all forms of renewable natural gas including renewable hydrogen, which is made from excess wind, solar and hydro power. Renewable hydrogen can be used for the transportation system, industrial use, or blended into the natural gas pipeline system.

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Investments in RNG facilities are recovered through an automatic adjustment clause that allows recovery of NW Natural's investments in RNG projects, including operating costs, to be added to rates annually on November 1st, following a prudence review. The RNG recovery mechanism allows NW Natural to defer for recovery or credit the differences between the forecasted and actual costs of the RNG projects, subject to an earnings test that includes deadbands at 50 basis points below and above NW Natural's authorized ROE. For 2025, NW Natural has performed this test, which is anticipated to be submitted to the OPUC in May 2026. No earnings test adjustment is expected for 2025. For RNG procurement contracts, NW Natural seeks recovery of the costs along with the PGA, subject to a prudence review.

NW Natural has two investments in RNG facilities totaling $16.9 million as of December 31, 2025 . OPUC has approved these investments for recovery in rates.

**METER MODERNIZATION PROGRAM.** In January 2024, NW Natural filed a request with the OPUC and WUTC to defer the incremental costs to replace or upgrade approximately 500,000 meters over four years. The deferral was approved by the WUTC in February 2024 and by the OPUC in February 2025. The amount deferred to a regulatory asset as of December 31, 2025 was approximately $0.5 million.

**INTEGRATED RESOURCE PLAN (IRP).** NW Natural generally files a full IRP biennially for Oregon and Washington with the OPUC and WUTC, respectively. NW Natural jointly filed its 2025 IRP for both Oregon and Washington on August 1, 2025. The 2025 IRP evaluates several scenarios based on a range of inputs and outlines the least-cost least-risk portfolio of resources required to meet future demand and environmental compliance obligations. With respect to IRPs generally, the WUTC issues letters of compliance and Oregon acknowledges the IRP Action Plan individually or in total. NW Natural anticipates decisions from both the OPUC and WUTC in the first half of 2026.

The development of an IRP filing is an extensive and complex process that engages multiple stakeholders in an effort to build a robust and commonly understood analysis. The final product is intended to provide a long-term outlook of the supply-side and demand-side resource requirements for reliable and low-cost natural gas service while also meeting NW Natural's environmental compliance requirements. The IRP examines and analyzes uncertainties in the planning process to evaluate risk, including potential changes in governmental and regulatory policies.

**OREGON ENERGY FAIRNESS AND AFFORDABILITY ACT.** In 2025, the State of Oregon enacted the Oregon Energy Fairness and Affordability Act (HB 3179). HB 3179 authorizes the OPUC to consider broader economic indicators when evaluating rate proposals and limits the frequency and timing of rate increases for electric and natural gas utilities. Specifically, NW Natural and other utilities are restricted from filing a new general rate case within 18 months of the effective date of the last general rate increase until the earlier of January 2, 2027 or when the OPUC implements rules for multi-year rate plans. Utilities are permitted to seek cost deferral during this 18-month period. HB 3179 only allows utilities to increase rates from April 1 through October 31 (outside of the winter heating season) and requires utilities to, at least annually, publish forecasts of expected rate adjustments for the following 12 months. Additionally, under HB 3179 the OPUC has the authority to approve the issuance of rate recovery bonds to finance or refinance certain eligible utility capital expenditures, including a capital investment that will cause residential rates to increase by more than five percent. We expect that the new requirements may impact the timing and structure of future rate filings.

**ALTERNATIVE RATE MECHANISM (ARM).** On November 25, 2025, NW Natural filed a request to the OPUC for an alternative rate mechanism for the recovery of costs associated with certain capital expenditures placed into service prior to October 31, 2026, including certain discrete projects over $1 million, information technology and services capital expenditures and public works projects. NW Natural's request includes an annual revenue requirement increase of $15.6 million and a proposed effective date of October 31, 2026. The request remains subject to review by the OPUC and other stakeholders and approval by the OPUC.

**SIENERGY GAS UTILITY**

<u>Most Recently Completed Rate Case</u>

SiEnergy Gas Utility's natural gas distribution business is located in Texas and primarily serves customers in the Houston, Dallas, and Austin metropolitan areas. Under Texas' regulatory paradigm, original jurisdiction over natural distribution rates is shared between the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) and the municipalities where the utility provides service. The RRC has exclusive original jurisdiction over natural gas utility rates in areas outside of municipalities. A municipality has original jurisdiction over the rates, operations and services provided by any gas utility distributing natural gas within city or town limits, unless it has surrendered its original jurisdiction to the RRC. However, any municipal rate decision can be appealed to the RRC, which will conduct its own review, including compiling a new evidentiary record. SiEnergy's last general rate case was settled in 2023 with new rates effective in September 2023. As part of the black box settlement, SiEnergy's annual revenue requirement increased by $5.5 million based on an approved net plant amount of approximately $151.6 million through March 31, 2023. Given the nature of the black box settlement, SiEnergy's authorized rate of return and capital structure were not specified.

SiEnergy does not currently have any open or ongoing general rate cases and is continuously evaluating the need for future general rate cases.

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<u>Regulatory Proceeding Updates</u>

**TEXAS HOUSE BILL 4384.** In June 2025, Texas House Bill 4384 was signed into law, allowing gas utilities in Texas to defer, and later recover, specific costs related to property, plant and equipment placed in service, but not yet reflected in base rates, including depreciation, ad valorem taxes, and carrying cost. The RRC is required to adopt rules to implement the new law within 270 days of the effective date. SiEnergy applied the new provisions to property, plant and equipment placed in service but not yet reflected in rates in 2025. The impact is not material for 2025.

**CUSTOMER RATE RELIEF BONDS.** In February 2022, the RRC issued a Financing Order to the Texas Public Financing Authority (TPFA) authorizing the issuance of the customer rate relief bonds to securitize the aggregated extraordinary costs associated with Winter Storm Uri for all participating natural gas utilities. In March 2023, the bonds were issued by the TPFA and $18.8 million of proceeds were received by SiEnergy. The majority of the proceeds were used to pay down the related long-term debt. SiEnergy began billing and collecting customer rate relief charges from customers in October 2023. Customer rate relief charges collected by SiEnergy are owned by the TPFA and are remitted to the TPFA on a monthly basis.

**WNA.** SiEnergy's service areas utilize weather normalization mechanisms (WNA). These mechanisms are designed to reduce the delivery charge component of customer's bills for the additional volumes used when actual HDDs exceed normalized HDDs and to increase the delivery charge component of customers' bills for the reduction in volumes used when actual HDDs are less than normal HDDs.

**NWN WATER UTILITY**

NWN Water currently serves an estimated 201,000 people through approximately 81,000 connections across six states. The wholly-owned regulated water businesses of NWN Water are subject to regulation by the utility commissions in the states in which they are located, which currently includes Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Idaho, and Texas. The wholly-owned regulated wastewater businesses of NWN Water are subject to regulation by the utility commissions in the states in which they are located, which currently includes Texas and Arizona. In addition, NWN Water includes wholly-owned unregulated wastewater businesses in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho. NWN Water continues to pursue acquisitions of regulated water and wastewater utilities:

<u>Most Recently Completed Rate Cases</u>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Foothills Utilities completed a general rate case in Arizona with the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) with new rates effective November 1, 2024. The rate case resulted in a $0.9 million revenue requirement increase for water customers and a $3.0 million revenue requirement increase for sewer customers based on a regulated capital structure of 55% equity and 45% debt and a 9.55% ROE.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Sunriver Water completed a general rate case in Oregon with the OPUC with new rates effective November 1, 2024. The rate case resulted in a $0.4 million revenue requirement increase for water customers based on a capital structure of 50% Equity and 50% Debt and a 9.5% ROE.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Avion Water, a regulated water company in Oregon, for which NWN Water owns approximately 47.9%, completed a general rate case with the OPUC with new rates effective February 1, 2025. The rate case resulted in a $1.3 million revenue requirement increase based on a capital structure of 51.35% Equity and 48.65% Debt and a 9.5% ROE.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Suncadia Water, a regulated water company in Washington, completed a general rate case with the WUTC with new rates effective July 1, 2025. The rate case resulted in a $0.3 million revenue requirement increase based on a settlement with all parties.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Gem State Water, a regulated water company in Idaho, completed a general rate case with the IPUC with new rates effective August 1, 2025. The rate case resulted in a $0.4 million revenue requirement increase based on a capital structure of 55% Equity and 45% Debt and a 9.8% ROE.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Falls Water, a regulated water company in Idaho, completed a general rate case with the IPUC with new rates effective September 1, 2025. The rate case resulted in a $0.6 million revenue requirement increase based on a capital structure of 55% Equity and 45% Debt and a 9.8% ROE.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Cascadia Water, a regulated water company in Washington State, completed a general rate case with the WUTC with new rates effective October 21, 2025. The rate case resulted in a $1.1 million revenue requirement increase for water customers.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• South Coast Water, a regulated water company in Oregon, completed a general rate case with the OPUC with new rates effective August, 15, 2025. The rate case resulted in a $0.023 million revenue requirement increase and a 9.5% ROE.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Seavey Loop Water, a regulated water company in Oregon, completed a general rate case with the OPUC with new rates effective October, 1st, 2025. The rate case resulted in a $0.043 million revenue requirement increase and a 9.5% ROE.

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<u>Regulatory Proceeding Updates</u>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Foothills Utilities implemented, effective June 24, 2025, a surcharge associated with its new wastewater reclamation facility that is designed to recover an additional $0.75 million of revenue requirement annually.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Blue Topaz water utility in Texas received approval of the acquisition of a water utility with approximately 700 connections in Texas. After completing a fair market valuation process through the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT), NWN Water filed the application with the PUCT in the first quarter of 2024. The acquisition closed in the first quarter of 2025.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Blue Topaz water utility in Texas sought approval of the acquisition of a water utility with approximately 1,500 connections in Texas. After completing a fair market valuation process through the PUCT, Blue Topaz filed the application in the second quarter of 2025. The acquisition closed in the fourth quarter of 2025.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Salmon Valley Water, Sunstone Water, Lakeshore Water, Seavey Loop Water, and South Coast Water, regulated water companies in Oregon, filed a consolidated general rate case in the fourth quarter of 2025. The rate case is ongoing.

**OTHER**

**MIST INTERSTATE GAS STORAGE.** NW Natural's interstate storage activities at its Mist Storage facility are subject to regulation by the OPUC, WUTC, and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) with respect to, among other matters, rates and terms of service. The OPUC also regulates intrastate storage services at Mist, while FERC regulates interstate storage services at Mist. The FERC uses a maximum cost of service model which allows for gas storage prices to be set at or below the cost of service as approved by each agency in their last regulatory filing. The OPUC Schedule 80 rates are tied to the FERC rates, and are updated whenever NW Natural modifies FERC maximum rates. NW Natural is required under its Mist interstate storage certificate authority and rate approval orders to file every five years either a petition for rate approval or a cost and revenue study to change or justify maintaining the existing rates for its interstate storage services. NW Natural filed a rate petition with the FERC in August 2023 and the revised rates were effective beginning September 1, 2023.

Non-utility Mist storage capacity of 1.15 Bcf and 0.28 Bcf were recalled as of December 31, 2024, and 2025, respectively, to serve core utility customer needs. Customer rate impacts of this recall began on November 1, 2024, and 2025.

**INTERSTATE STORAGE AND ASSET MANAGEMENT SHARING.** On an annual basis, NW Natural credits amounts to Oregon and Washington customers as part of a regulatory incentive sharing mechanism related to net revenues earned from Mist gas storage for assets developed in advance of utility customer needs, and asset management revenues. In January 2026, the OPUC approved the annual 2026 bill credit for Oregon customers' share of interstate storage and asset management activities totaling approximately $23.2 million, which was credited to customers' bills in February 2026. This includes revenue generated for the November 2024 through October 2025 PGA year. Credits are given to customers in Washington as reductions in rates through the annual PGA filing in November.

The following table presents the credits to NWN Gas Utility customers:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| *In millions* | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Oregon | $15.5 | $28.9 | $23.5 |
| Washington | 2.0 | 2.4 | 2.9 |

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**<u>Other Legislative Matters</u>**

On July 4, 2025, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) was signed into law. OBBBA includes a range of tax reform provisions. We completed our evaluation of the legislation and do not expect it to have a material impact on our results of operations, liquidity or capital resources.

**<u>Environmental Regulation and Legislation Matters</u>**

Certain of our businesses, including our natural gas businesses, are subject to or likely to be affected by current or future legislation, regulation, directed government funding, penalties for non-compliance, litigation and other forms of policies or actions seeking to regulate GHG emissions, including, but not limited to: GHG emissions limits, reporting requirements, carbon taxes, requirements to purchase carbon credits, building codes, efficiency standards, charges to fund energy efficiency activities or other regulatory actions, incentives or mandates to conserve energy or use renewable energy sources, tax advantages or other subsidies to support alternative energy sources, a reduction in rate recovery for construction costs related to the installation of new customer services or other new infrastructure investments, mandates for the use of specific fuels or technologies, bans on specific fuels or technologies, or promotion of research into new technologies to reduce the cost and increase the scalability of alternative energy sources.

<u>Federal</u>

Historically, federal agencies have regulated GHG emissions. For example, under the Clean Air Act, our natural gas distribution businesses have been required to report system throughput to the EPA on an annual basis. The EPA also has required additional GHG reporting regulations applicable to NW Natural, requiring the annual reporting of fugitive emissions from operations. Although the EPA has revoked the endangerment findings for GHG emissions and has announced proposed rules rescinding these reporting requirements, we were subject to these reporting requirements in 2025 and remain subject to such requirements until the EPA's rules are finalized and become effective.

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Upon taking office in January 2025, President Trump has advanced federal policies to promote energy independence and revoke Biden administration climate initiatives. In addition, the recently enacted One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) includes provisions that phase out tax credits for certain renewable fuels projects. There is also litigation regarding cancelled federal funds for renewable energy projects. We expect continued changes to climate policy under the Trump Administration, such as additional executive orders, regulations, programs and other federal actions. We are currently evaluating these developments but cannot predict the timing, form, or potential impact of future federal actions on our business.

<u>Washington State</u>

In 2025, Washington comprised approximately 8% of NW Natural's revenues, as well as 2% and 13% of new meters from commercial and residential customers, respectively.

Effective February 2021, Washington state building codes (WSEC-2018) require new residential homes to meet energy efficiency standards based on carbon emissions assumptions that consider electric appliances to have lower on-site GHG emissions than comparable gas appliances. This increases the cost of constructing new homes with natural gas depending on a number of factors including home size, equipment configurations, and building envelope measures. In March 2024, rules enacted by the Washington State Building Code Council (SBCC) (WSEC-2021) took effect that modified the 2021 codes, and collectively, these rules generally have the effect of restricting or eliminating the use of gas space and water heating in new commercial and residential construction. The SBCC rules are currently subject to pending legal challenges.

In November 2024, Washington Ballot initiative I-2066 was passed. I-2066 was described on the ballot as prohibiting state and local governments from restricting access to natural gas, prohibiting the SBCC from discouraging or penalizing the use of natural gas in any building, requiring providers of natural gas to provide energy services regardless of the other energy sources available, and prohibiting the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC) from approving any multiyear rate plan requiring or incentivizing a natural gas company to terminate natural gas service or make such natural gas service cost-prohibitive. Although the SBCC has indicated that the current SBCC codes will remain in place while the SBCC investigates any changes necessary under I-2066, the King County Washington Superior Court recently issued a ruling declaring I-2066 invalid under the Washington state constitution. Washington State and the Building Industry Association of Washington have appealed such litigation, which is pending in the Washington Supreme Court. We cannot currently predict the ultimate outcome of such appeal, or if there will be any further changes to the SBCC codes.

In 2022, the state of Washington enacted the Climate Commitment Act (CCA), which establishes a comprehensive program that includes an overall limit for GHG emissions from major sources in the state that declines yearly beginning January 1, 2023, resulting in an overall reduction of GHG emissions to 95% below 1990 levels by 2050. The Washington Department of Ecology has adopted rules to create a cap-and-invest program, under which entities, including natural gas and electric utilities, large manufacturing facilities, and transportation and other fuel providers which are subject to the CCA must either reduce their emissions, purchase qualifying offsets (including RNG) or obtain allowances to cover any remaining emissions. NW Natural is subject to the CCA, has received an order authorizing deferral of CCA costs from the WUTC, and is currently recovering CCA compliance costs in rates.

<u>Oregon</u>

In November 2024, the Environmental Quality Commission of the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) issued final cap and reduce rules for its Climate Protection Program (CPP), which became effective on January 1, 2025. The CPP establishes a program to limit GHG emissions from covered entities, including natural gas utilities, by 50% by 2035 and 90% by 2050 from a 2017-2019 baseline. The first compliance period for the CPP concludes December 31, 2027. ODEQ previously promulgated CPP rules in December 2021, but the Oregon Court of Appeals invalidated these previous CPP rules in December 2023 for the agency's failure to comply with rulemaking requirements under state law. NW Natural received an order from the OPUC authorizing deferral of costs under the prior CPP and current CPP. NW Natural will continue to pursue recovery of costs associated with compliance with the current CPP in rates. NW Natural is recovering in rates costs associated with RNG acquired pursuant to Senate Bill 98, which also supports compliance under CPP.

On October 25, 2024, the OPUC issued its final order related to our 2024 Oregon General Rate Case, approving the parties' Stipulations and resolving remaining open items. The OPUC also ordered the phase out of NW Natural's line extension allowance and ordered a downward adjustment to rate base of undepreciated line extension costs. NW Natural filed an appeal with the Oregon Court of Appeals on December 23, 2024, challenging the determination and the authority of the OPUC to take these actions and this litigation remains pending.

<u>Local Jurisdictions and Other Advocacy</u>

Advocacy groups have indicated a willingness to pursue municipal ordinances and ballot measures or other local activities disincentivizing gas infrastructure. A number of cities or counties across the country have taken action, and several in our service territory are considering actions such as limitations, penalties, or bans on the use of natural gas in new construction or otherwise. For example, local jurisdictions in our service territory have considered plans to address GHG emissions and engage in a number of actions, including identifying potential revenue sources, like a gas supplier tax or a carbon impact fee. Similarly, some jurisdictions and advocates are seeking to ban the use of natural gas and certain natural gas appliances inside homes, contending that there are detrimental indoor health effects associated with the use of natural gas.

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NW Natural is actively engaged with federal, state and local policymakers, consumers, customers, small businesses and other business coalitions, economic development practitioners, and other advocates in our service territory and is working with these communities to communicate the role that direct use natural gas, and in the coming years, RNG and hydrogen, can play in pursuing more effective policies to reduce GHGs while supporting reliability, resiliency, energy choice, equity, and energy affordability.

<u>NW Natural Climate Initiatives and Compliance Actions</u>

We expect that compliance with any form of regulation of GHG emissions will require additional resources and legislative or regulatory tools and will increase costs. The evolving guidance to implement the CCA and CPP, evolving carbon credit markets, decades-long compliance timeframes, likely changes in law and policy, and technological advancements, all make it difficult to accurately predict long-term tools for and costs of compliance.

We are currently including costs of compliance with the CCA and CPP in rates. CCA compliance costs represent a 4.6% increase on residential bills starting on January 1, 2025. Low income customers do not participate in these compliance costs and are not impacted.

The first compliance period for the CPP has begun. Through 2025, NW Natural has not exceeded its limit on GHG emissions under the CPP. NW Natural is currently recovering in Oregon rates costs associated with RNG, as well as costs related to NW Natural's transportation energy efficiency program, all of which support offset obligations under CPP.

Limitations on natural gas use, or declining line extension allowances provided in rates to cover construction costs for new services, carbon compliance costs included in rates reduce the competitiveness of our business and the demand for natural gas service. However, at the same time, other sources of energy are or will be subject to, GHG-related compliance requirements that are likely to affect their cost and competitiveness relative to natural gas. For example, Oregon's HB 2021 and Washington's SB 5116 require certain GHG emissions reductions from electric utilities. We expect compliance with these and other laws will increase the cost of energy for electric customers in our service territory. We are not able to determine at this time whether these developments will make natural gas use more or less competitive on a relative basis.

We further expect these and other trends to drive innovation of, and demand for, technological developments and innovative new products that reduce GHG emissions. Research and development are occurring across the energy sector, including in the gas sector with work being conducted on gas heat pumps, higher efficiency water and space heating appliances including hybrid systems, carbon capture utilization and storage developments, continued development of technologies related to RNG, and various forms of hydrogen for different applications, among others.

***FINANCIAL CONDITION***

**<u>Cash Flows</u>**

The following discussion of changes in cash flows refers to the consolidated results of NW Holdings, the substantial majority of which consist of the operating results of NW Natural. When significant activity exists at NW Holdings that does not exist at NW Natural, additional disclosure has been provided.

<u>Operating Activities</u>

Changes in our operating cash flows are primarily affected by net income or loss, changes in working capital requirements, and other cash and non-cash adjustments to operating results.

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| *In millions* | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
| NW Holdings cash provided by operating activities | $269.1 | $200.3 | $279.9 |
| NW Natural cash provided by operating activities | 265.2 | 230.7 | 281.9 |

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**2025 COMPARED TO 2024.** Cash provided by operating activities increased $68.8 million at NW Holdings and $34.4 million at NW Natural. The significant factors contributing to the increase at NW Natural were as follows:

• $35.2 million increase in net income;

• $32.4 million decrease in accounts receivable due to comparatively warmer weather at the end of the fiscal year;

• $30.5 million increase in deferred income taxes,

• $26.0 million increase in accounts payable resulting from increase in gas price from the prior year;

• $19.5 million increase in depreciation; and

• $13.3 million decrease on asset optimization revenue sharing bill credits, partially offset by

• $72.3 million decrease in deferred gas costs;

• $32.1 million decrease in decoupling mechanism primarily due to lower usage driven by comparatively warmer weather; and

• $23.1 million increase in inventories.

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The $68.8 million increase in cash provided by operating activities at NW Holdings was primarily driven by the factors discussed above. Also, changes in income taxes provided $21.0 million less in operating cash flow to NW Holdings than at NW Natural and in the prior year, Ohio Renewables paid $51.4 million to a subsidiary of EDL in connection with two RNG facilities.

**2024 COMPARED TO 2023.** The significant factors contributing to the $51.1 million decrease at NW Natural cash flow provided by operating activities were as follows:

• $64.8 million decrease in accounts receivable due to comparatively warmer weather in the current year;

• $20.5 million increase in contributions to our defined benefit pension plan;

• $18.4 million increase in asset optimization revenue sharing bill credits to customers; and

• $15.7 million decrease in net income; partially offset by

• $22.8 million decrease in accounts payable resulting from payments of higher priced gas in the prior year;

• $21.6 million decrease in inventories due to higher priced gas and more gas withdrawn from storage in the prior year; and

• $16.6 million increase in the decoupling mechanism primarily due to lower usage driven by comparatively warmer weather.

The $79.7 million decrease in cash provided by operating activities at NW Holdings was primarily driven by the factors discussed above. In addition, Ohio Renewables paid $51.4 million to a subsidiary of EDL in connection with two RNG facilities.

NW Natural made $11.3 million of cash contributions to its qualified defined benefit pension plan during the year ended December 31, 2025 and $20.5 million of cash contributions during the year ended December 31, 2024. The American Rescue Plan, which was signed into law on March 11, 2021, includes a provision for pension relief that extends the amortization period for required contributions from 7 to 15 years and provides for the stabilization of interest rates used to calculate future required contributions. The amount and timing of future contributions will depend on market interest rates and investment returns on the plans' assets. See Note 10.

NW Holdings and NW Natural have lease and purchase commitments relating to our operating activities that are financed with cash flows from operations. For information on cash flow requirements related to leases and other purchase commitments, see Note 7 and Note 16.

<u>Investing Activities</u>

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| *In millions* | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
| NW Holdings cash used in investing activities | $(808.9) | $(429.0) | $(335.5) |
| NW Natural cash used in investing activities | (357.5) | (357.6) | (290.5) |

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**2025 COMPARED TO 2024.** Cash used in investing activities increased $379.9 million at NW Holdings and decreased $0.1 million at NW Natural, respectively. The increase at NW Holdings is primarily driven by higher capital expenditures as we continue to invest in our natural gas, water and wastewater utility systems. In addition, NWN Holdings completed the acquisitions of SiEnergy and Pines in 2025 and paid a total of $331.5 million in cash consideration.

**2024 COMPARED TO 2023.** Cash used in investing activities increased $67.2 million at NW Natural and $93.5 million at NW Holdings, respectively. The increase at NW Natural and NW Holdings is primarily driven by higher capital expenditures as we continue to invest in our natural gas, water and wastewater utility systems. In addition, NWN Water completed the acquisition of Infrastructure Capital Holdings in 2024 and paid $29.9 million in cash consideration.

The decrease in cash used in investing activities at NW Holdings is driven by lower capital expenditures at NW Natural and less cash used for water and wastewater acquisitions.

NW Holdings capital expenditures for 2026 are expected to be in the range of $500 million to $550 million and for the five-year period from 2026 to 2030 are expected to range from $2.6 billion to $2.9 billion. NW Natural capital expenditures for 2026 are expected to be in the range of $340 million to $370 million and for the five-year period from 2026 to 2030 are expected to be approximately $1.6 billion to $1.8 billion. SiEnergy capital expenditures for 2026 are expected to be in the range of $110 million to $120 million and for the five-year period from 2026 to 2030 are expected to be in the range of $750 million to $800 million. NW Natural Water capital expenditures for 2026 are expected to be in the range of $50 million to $60 million and for the five-year period from 2026 to 2030 are expected to be in the range of $250 million to $300 million.

The timing and amount of the core capital expenditures and projects for 2026 and the next six years could change based on regulation, growth, and cost estimates. Additional investments in our infrastructure during and after 2026 that are not incorporated in the estimates provided above will depend largely on additional regulations, growth, and expansion opportunities. Required funds for the investments are expected to be internally generated or financed with long-term debt or equity, as appropriate.

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<u>Financing Activities</u>

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| *In millions* | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
| NW Holdings cash provided by financing activities | $532.9 | $227.1 | $64.2 |
| NW Natural cash provided by financing activities | 96.6 | 119.8 | 20.4 |

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**2025 COMPARED TO 2024.** Cash provided by financing activities increased $305.8 million at NW Holdings and decreased $23.2 million at NW Natural.

The increase in cash provided by financing activities at NW Holdings was primarily driven by higher issuances of long-term debt, partially offset by lower borrowings on short-term debt, lower proceeds from common stock issuances, and higher repayments of long-term debt.

The decrease in cash provided by financing activities at NW Natural was primarily attributable to an increase in short-term and long-term debt repayments, net of long-term debt issued, and cash contributions from NW Holdings.

**2024 COMPARED TO 2023.** Cash provided by financing activities increased $99.4 million at NW Natural primarily driven by higher short-term debt borrowings, lower long-term debt maturities and higher cash contributions from NW Holdings, partially offset by lower long-term debt issuances.

Cash provided by financing activities increased $162.9 million at NW Holdings primarily driven by higher short-term debt borrowings and higher proceeds from common stock issuances, partially offset by higher long-term debt maturities and lower long-term debt issuances.

**<u>Capital Structure</u>**

NW Holdings' long-term goal is to maintain a strong and balanced consolidated capital structure. NW Natural targets a regulatory capital structure of 50% common equity and 50% long-term debt, which is consistent with approved regulatory allocations in Oregon, which has an allocation of 50% common equity and 50% long-term debt without recognition of short-term debt.

When additional capital is required, debt or equity securities are issued depending on both the target capital structure and market conditions. These sources of capital are also used to fund long-term debt retirements and short-term commercial paper maturities. See "*Liquidity and Capital Resources*" below and Note 9. Achieving our target capital structure and maintaining sufficient liquidity to meet operating requirements is necessary to maintain attractive credit ratings and provide access to the capital markets at reasonable costs.

NW Holdings' consolidated capital structure, excluding short-term debt, was as follows:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | December 31, | December 31, |
| | 2025 | 2024 |
| Common equity | 37.7% | 44.8% |
| Long-term debt (including current maturities) | 62.3 | 55.2 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | 100.0% | 100.0% |

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NW Natural's consolidated capital structure, excluding short-term debt, was as follows:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | December 31, | December 31, |
| | 2025 | 2024 |
| Common equity | 49.6% | 49.2% |
| Long-term debt (including current maturities) | 50.4 | 50.8 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | 100.0% | 100.0% |

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As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, NW Holdings' consolidated capital structure included common equity of 36.2% and 42.4%, long-term debt of 55.7% and 51.4%, and short-term debt including current maturities of long-term debt of 8.1% and 6.2%, respectively. As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, NW Natural's consolidated capital structure included common equity of 49.4% and 46.9%, long-term debt of 48.5% and 47.2%, and short-term debt including current maturities of long-term debt of 2.1% and 5.9%, respectively.

During 2025, NW Natural's capital structure changed primarily due to the increase in long-term debt and capital contributions from NW Holdings. NW Holdings' capital structure changed primarily due to the issuance of long-term debt and common stock at NW Holdings. See further discussion below in "Cash Flows *— Financing Activities*"*.* 

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**<u>Liquidity and Capital Resources</u>**

At December 31, 2025 and 2024, NW Holdings had approximately $36.7 million and $38.5 million, and NW Natural had approximately $29.3 million and $20.0 million, of cash and cash equivalents, respectively. In order to maintain sufficient liquidity during periods when capital markets are volatile, NW Holdings and NW Natural may elect to maintain higher cash balances and add short-term borrowing capacity. NW Holdings and NW Natural may also pre-fund their respective capital expenditures when long-term fixed rate environments are attractive. NW Holdings and NW Natural expect to have ample liquidity in the form of cash on hand and from operations and available credit capacity under credit facilities to support funding needs.

<u>ATM Equity Program</u>

In August 2021, NW Holdings initiated an at-the-market (ATM) equity program by entering into an equity distribution agreement under which NW Holdings issued and sold from time to time shares of common stock, no par value, having an aggregate gross sales price of up to $200 million. In August 2024, the Finance Committee of the NW Holdings' Board of Directors authorized NW Holdings' sale of an additional $200 million in the aggregate gross sales price under the ATM equity program, with the result that a total of $400 million in the aggregate gross sales price has been authorized for issuance and sale under the ATM equity program. NW Holdings is under no obligation to offer and sell common stock under the ATM equity program. Any shares of common stock offered under the ATM equity program are registered on NW Holdings' universal shelf registration statement filed with the SEC, which expires in August 2027, or will be registered on a subsequent registration statement to be filed by NW Holdings.

During the year ended December 31, 2025, NW Holdings issued and sold 1,178,509 shares of common stock pursuant to the ATM equity program resulting in cash proceeds of $47.4 million, net of fees and commissions paid to agents of $0.9 million. As of December 31, 2025, $103.4 million of equity remained available for issuance under the ATM equity program.

<u>NW Holdings</u>

For NW Holdings, short-term liquidity is primarily provided by cash balances, dividends from its operating subsidiaries, proceeds from the sale of commercial paper notes, as well as a multi-year credit facility, and short-term credit facilities. NW Holdings also has a universal shelf registration statement filed with the SEC for the issuance of debt and equity securities. NW Holdings long-term debt and equity issuances are primarily used to provide equity contributions to NW Holdings' operating subsidiaries for operating and capital expenditures and other corporate purposes. NW Natural also has a universal shelf registration statement filed with the SEC for the issuance of debt securities. NW Holdings' issuance of securities is not subject to regulation by state public utility commissions, but the dividends from NW Natural to NW Holdings are subject to regulatory ring-fencing provisions. NW Holdings guarantees the debt of its wholly-owned subsidiary, NWN Water. See "*Long-Term Debt*" below for more information regarding NWN Water debt.

As part of the ring-fencing conditions agreed upon with the OPUC and WUTC in connection with the holding company reorganization, NW Natural may not pay dividends or make distributions to NW Holdings if NW Natural's credit ratings and common equity ratio, defined as the ratio of equity to long-term debt, fall below specified levels. If NW Natural's long-term secured credit ratings are below A- for S&P and A3 for Moody's, dividends may be issued so long as NW Natural's common equity ratio is 45% or more. If NW Natural's long-term secured credit ratings are below BBB for S&P and Baa2 for Moody's, dividends may be issued so long as NW Natural's common equity ratio is 46% or more. Dividends may not be issued if NW Natural's long-term secured credit ratings are BB+ or below for S&P or Ba1 or below for Moody's, or if NW Natural's common equity ratio is below 44%, where the ratio is measured using common equity and long-term debt excluding imputed debt or debt-like lease obligations. In each case, common equity ratios are determined based on a preceding or projected 13-month average. In addition, there are certain OPUC notice requirements for dividends in excess of 5% of NW Natural's retained earnings, or more than 10% of its retained earnings over a six-month period, and for special cash dividends paid in addition to regularly quarterly dividends.

Additionally, if NW Natural's common equity (excluding goodwill and equity associated with non-regulated assets), on a preceding or projected 13-month average basis, is less than 46% of NW Natural's capital structure, NW Natural is required to notify the OPUC, and if the common equity ratio falls below 44%, file a plan with the OPUC to restore its equity ratio to 44%. This condition is designed to ensure NW Natural continues to be adequately capitalized under the holding company structure. Under the WUTC order, the average common equity ratio must not exceed 56%.

At December 31, 2025 and 2024, NW Natural satisfied the ring-fencing provisions described above.

Based on several factors, including current cash reserves, committed credit facilities, its ability to receive dividends from its operating subsidiaries, in particular NW Natural, and an expected ability to issue long-term debt and equity securities in the capital markets, NW Holdings believes its liquidity is sufficient to meet anticipated cash requirements, including all contractual obligations, investing, and financing activities as discussed in "*Cash Flows*" above for at least the next 12 calendar months beginning January 1, 2026 and beyond such 12-month period based on NW Holdings' current business plans.

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**NW HOLDINGS DIVIDENDS.** Quarterly dividends have been paid on common stock each year since NW Holdings' predecessor's stock was first issued to the public in 1951. Annual common stock dividend payments per share, adjusted for stock splits, have increased each year since 1956. The declarations and amount of future dividends to shareholders will depend upon earnings, cash flows, financial condition, NW Natural's ability to pay dividends to NW Holdings and other factors. The amount and timing of dividends payable on common stock is at the sole discretion of the NW Holdings Board of Directors.

NW Holdings dividend highlights include:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| *Per common share* | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Dividends paid | $1.9625 | $1.9525 | $1.9425 |

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In January 2026, the Board of Directors of NW Holdings declared a quarterly dividend on NW Holdings common stock of $0.4925 per share, payable on February 13, 2026, to shareholders of record on January 30, 2026, reflecting an indicated annual dividend rate of $1.97 per share.

<u>NW Natural</u>

For the NWN Gas Utility business segment, short-term borrowing requirements typically peak during colder winter months when NWN Gas Utility borrows money to cover the lag between natural gas purchases and bill collections from customers. Short-term liquidity for the NWN Gas Utility business is primarily provided by cash balances, internal cash flow from operations, proceeds from the sale of commercial paper notes, as well as available cash from multi-year credit facilities, short-term credit facilities, company-owned life insurance policies, the sale of long-term debt, and equity contributions from NW Holdings. NW Natural's long-term debt and contributions from NW Holdings are primarily used to finance NWN Gas Utility capital expenditures, refinance maturing debt, and provide temporary funding for other general corporate purposes of the NWN Gas Utility business.

Based on its current debt ratings (see "*Credit Ratings*" below), NW Natural has been able to issue commercial paper and long-term debt at attractive rates. In the event NW Natural is not able to issue new long-term debt due to adverse market conditions or other reasons, NW Natural expects that near-term liquidity needs can be met using internal cash flows, issuing commercial paper, receiving equity contributions from NW Holdings, or drawing upon a committed credit facility. NW Natural also has a universal shelf registration statement filed with the SEC for the issuance of secured and unsecured debt securities.

In the event NW Natural senior unsecured long-term debt ratings are downgraded, or outstanding derivative positions exceed a certain credit threshold, counterparties under derivative contracts could require NW Natural to post cash, a letter of credit, or other forms of collateral, which could expose NW Natural to additional cash requirements and may trigger increases in short-term borrowings while in a net loss position. NW Natural was not required to post collateral at December 31, 2025. See Note 15.

Other items that may have a significant impact on NW Natural's liquidity and capital resources include NW Natural's pension contribution requirements and environmental expenditures.

**PENSION CONTRIBUTIONS.** NW Natural expects to make contributions to its company-sponsored defined benefit plan, which is closed to new employees, over the next several years under applicable laws and regulations. See "Application of Critical Accounting Policies—*Pensions and Postretirement Benefits*" below and Note 10 for more information.

**ENVIRONMENTAL EXPENDITURES.** NW Natural expects to continue using cash resources to fund environmental liabilities for future environmental remediation or action. NW Natural has authorizations in Oregon and Washington to defer costs related to remediation of properties that are owned or were previously owned by NW Natural. In Oregon, a Site Remediation and Recovery Mechanism (SRRM) is currently in place to recover prudently incurred costs allocable to Oregon customers, subject to an earnings test. On October 21, 2019 the WUTC authorized an Environmental Cost Recovery Mechanism (ECRM) for recovery of prudently incurred costs allocable to Washington customers beginning November 1, 2019. See Note 17 and "Results of Operations—Regulatory Matters—*Environmental Cost Deferral and Recovery*" above.

Based on several factors, including current credit ratings, NW Natural's commercial paper program, current cash reserves, committed credit facilities, and an expected ability to issue long-term debt and receive equity contributions from NW Holdings, NW Natural believes its liquidity is sufficient to meet anticipated near-term cash requirements, including all contractual obligations, and investing and financing activities as discussed in "*Cash Flows*" above.

**NW NATURAL DIVIDENDS.** The declarations and amount of future dividends to NW Holdings will depend upon earnings, cash flows, financial condition, the satisfaction of OPUC and WUTC regulatory ring-fencing restrictions, and other factors. The amount and timing of dividends payable on common stock is subject to approval of the NW Natural Board of Directors.

**<u>Gas and Pipeline Capacity Purchase Agreements</u>**

NW Natural has signed agreements providing for the reservation of firm pipeline capacity under which it is required to make monthly payments for contracted capacity. The pricing component of the monthly payment is established, subject to change, by U.S. or Canadian regulatory bodies, or is established directly with private counterparties, as applicable. In addition, NW Natural

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has entered into long-term agreements to release firm pipeline capacity. NW Natural also enters into short-term and long-term gas purchase agreements. Refer to Note 16 for gas and pipeline capacity purchase commitments.

NWN Renewables is an unregulated subsidiary of NW Holdings established to pursue unregulated RNG activities. In September 2021, a subsidiary of NWN Renewables, Ohio Renewables, and a subsidiary of EDL, a global producer of sustainable distributed energy, executed agreements to secure RNG supply from two production facilities that are designed to convert landfill waste gases to RNG (EDL Facilities). The first facility was completed and commenced delivery of RNG to Ohio Renewables in September 2024. Upon reaching this milestone, Ohio Renewables paid approximately $26.0 million to the EDL subsidiary. The second facility was completed and commenced delivery of RNG to Ohio Renewables in December 2024 at which point Ohio Renewables made an additional payment of $25.4 million to the EDL subsidiary.

Alongside these development agreements, Ohio Renewables and the subsidiary of EDL executed agreements for Ohio Renewables to purchase up to an annual specified amount of RNG produced by the EDL Facilities over a 20-year period at a contractually specified price. In December 2025, Ohio Renewables entered into an agreement to purchase up to an annual specified amount of RNG produced by the EDL Facilities from a separate investment-grade counterparty over an 11-year period at a contractually specified price. Purchase volumes for each agreement are variable based on production, and purchases may not exceed contracted amounts. We currently estimate the amount of RNG purchases based on prices and estimated production volumes specified in the agreements to be $20.9 million in 2026, $31.4 million in 2027, $31.6 million in 2028, $30.8 million in 2029, $31.4 million in 2030 and $599.3 million thereafter through 2044. In 2025, purchases totaled $14.5 million.

**<u>NWN Renewables Gas Sale Agreements</u>**

Ohio Renewables has contracted to sell RNG produced by the EDL Facilities up to certain specified volumes in each of calendar years 2024 through 2026 to an investment-grade counterparty. We currently estimate RNG volumes to be sold pursuant to this agreement to be approximately 2,370,000 MMbtu over the life of the agreement, provided that such amounts of RNG are produced by the EDL Facilities during that period.

Ohio Renewables additionally has contracted to sell a fixed-volume amount of RNG under a long-term agreement with an investment-grade utility beginning in 2025 and extending through 2044. Amounts to be delivered under this agreement are estimated to be 375,000 MMbtu in 2026, 1,950,000 MMbtu annually in 2027 through 2030, 2,325,000 MMbtu annually in 2031 through 2034, 2,775,000 MMbtu annually in years 2035 through 2043 and 1,513,770 MMbtu in 2044. Under the current contract, if less than 75% of the contracted volumes of RNG are not delivered on an annual basis, Ohio Renewables is obligated to pay the per MMbtu price for volumes between the amount delivered and 75% of the contracted volumes on an annual basis.

**<u>Other Purchase Agreements</u>**

Other purchase commitments primarily consist of remaining balances under existing purchase orders and gas storage agreements. At December 31, 2025, the amount due over the duration of the purchase agreements totaled $50.0 million at NW Holdings. Except for these certain purchase commitments, NW Holdings and NW Natural have no material off-balance sheet financing arrangements.

**<u>Short-Term Debt</u>**

The primary source of short-term liquidity for NW Holdings is cash balances, dividends from its operating subsidiaries, in particular NW Natural, proceeds from the sale of commercial paper notes, available cash from a multi-year credit facility, and short-term credit facilities it may enter into from time to time.

The primary source of short-term liquidity for NW Natural is from the sale of commercial paper, available cash from a multi-year credit facility, and short-term credit facilities it may enter into from time to time. In addition to issuing commercial paper or entering into bank loans to meet working capital requirements, including seasonal requirements to finance gas purchases and accounts receivable, short-term debt may also be used to temporarily fund capital requirements. For NW Natural, commercial paper and bank loans are periodically refinanced through the sale of long-term debt or equity contributions from NW Holdings. Commercial paper, when outstanding, is sold through two commercial banks under an issuing and paying agency agreement and is supported by one or more unsecured revolving credit facilities. See "Credit Agreements" below.

At December 31, 2025 and 2024, NW Holdings' short-term debt consisted of the following:

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | December 31, 2024 |
| *In millions* | Balance Outstanding | Weighted Average Interest Rate<sup>(1)</sup> | Balance Outstanding | Weighted Average Interest Rate<sup>(1)</sup> |
| Commercial Paper Borrowings - NW Holdings<sup>(2)</sup> | $162.0 | 4.1% | $— | —% |
| Commercial Paper Borrowings - NW Natural | 10.0 | 4.0% | 136.5 | 4.8% |
| NW Holdings Credit Agreement Loans |  | —% | 33.6 | 5.5% |
| Total short-term debt | $172.0 |  | $170.1 |  |

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<sup>(1)</sup> Weighted average interest rate on outstanding short-term debt

<sup>(2)</sup> NW Holdings initiated a commercial paper program in March 2025.

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<u>Acquisition Bridge Facility</u>

On January 7, 2025, NW Holdings entered into a 364-Day Term Loan Credit Agreement (the Acquisition Bridge Facility) among NW Holdings, as borrower, certain lenders parties thereto, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent, pursuant to which NW Holdings borrowed a $273.0 million senior unsecured term loan (the Bridge Loan), the proceeds of which were used to finance the SiEnergy acquisition, with any remaining proceeds to be used for working capital needs and for general corporate purposes. The Bridge Loan was repaid in full in March 2025.

**<u>Credit Agreements</u>**

<u>NW Holdings</u>

NW Holdings has a $250 million credit agreement with a feature that allows NW Holdings to request increases to the total commitment amount up to a maximum of $350 million (subject to lender approval). The maturity date of the agreement is November 3, 2030 (or, if such day is not a business day, the immediately preceding business day), with available extensions of commitments for two additional one-year periods, subject to lender approval.

All lenders under the NW Holdings credit agreement are major financial institutions with committed balances and investment grade credit ratings as of December 31, 2025 as follows:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| *In millions* |  |
| Lender rating, by category | Loan Commitment |
| AA/Aa | $194 |
| A/A1 | 56 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | $250 |

---

Based on credit market conditions, it is possible one or more lending commitments could be unavailable to NW Holdings if the lender defaulted due to lack of funds or insolvency; however, NW Holdings does not believe this risk to be imminent due to the lenders' strong investment-grade credit ratings. There were no outstanding balances under the NW Holdings agreement at December 31, 2025 and $33.6 million of outstanding balances under the NW Holdings agreement at December 31, 2024.

The NW Holdings credit agreement permits the issuance of letters of credit in an aggregate amount of up to $40 million. The principal amount of borrowings under the credit agreement is due and payable on the maturity date. The credit agreement requires NW Holdings to maintain a consolidated indebtedness to total capitalization ratio of 70% or less. Failure to comply with this covenant would entitle the lenders to terminate their lending commitments and accelerate the maturity of all amounts outstanding. NW Holdings was in compliance with this covenant at December 31, 2025 and 2024, with consolidated indebtedness to total capitalization ratios of 60.7% and 57.6%, respectively.

The NW Holdings credit agreement also requires NW Holdings to maintain debt ratings (which are defined by a formula using NW Natural's credit ratings in the event NW Holdings does not have a credit rating) with Standard & Poor's (S&P) and Moody's Investors Service, Inc. (Moody's) and notify the lenders of any change in its senior unsecured debt ratings or senior secured debt ratings, as applicable, by such rating agencies. A change in NW Holdings' debt ratings by S&P or Moody's is not an event of default, nor is the maintenance of a specific minimum level of debt rating a condition of drawing upon the credit agreement. Rather, interest rates on any loans outstanding under the credit agreements are tied to debt ratings and therefore, a change in the debt rating would increase or decrease the cost of any loans under the credit agreements when ratings are changed. See "*Credit Ratings*" below.

NW Holdings had no letters of credit issued and outstanding at December 31, 2025 and 2024.

<u>NW Natural</u>

NW Natural has a $400 million credit agreement, with a feature that allows NW Natural to request increases in the total commitment amount, up to a maximum of $600 million, subject to lender approval. The maturity date of the agreement is November 3, 2030 (or, if such day is not a business day, the immediately preceding business day), with available extensions of commitments for two additional one-year periods, subject to lender approval.

All lenders under the NW Natural credit agreement are major financial institutions with committed balances and investment grade credit ratings as of December 31, 2025 as follows:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| *In millions* |  |
| Lender rating, by category | Loan Commitment |
| AA/Aa | $310 |
| A/A1 | 90 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | $400 |

---

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Based on credit market conditions, it is possible one or more lending commitments could be unavailable to NW Natural if the lender defaulted due to lack of funds or insolvency; however, NW Natural does not believe this risk to be imminent due to the lenders' strong investment-grade credit ratings. There was no outstanding balances under the NW Natural agreement at December 31, 2025 and 2024.

The NW Natural credit agreement permits the issuance of letters of credit in an aggregate amount of up to $60 million. The principal amount of borrowings under the credit agreement is due and payable on the maturity date. There were no outstanding balances under this credit agreement at December 31, 2025 or 2024. The credit agreement requires NW Natural to maintain a consolidated indebtedness to total capitalization ratio of 70% or less. Failure to comply with this covenant would entitle the lenders to terminate their lending commitments and accelerate the maturity of all amounts outstanding. NW Natural was in compliance with this covenant at December 31, 2025 and 2024, with consolidated indebtedness to total capitalization ratios of 50.6% and 53.1%, respectively.

The NW Natural credit agreement also requires NW Natural to maintain credit ratings with S&P and Moody's and notify the lenders of any change in NW Natural's senior unsecured debt ratings or senior secured debt ratings, as applicable, by such rating agencies. A change in NW Natural's debt ratings by S&P or Moody's is not an event of default, nor is the maintenance of a specific minimum level of debt rating a condition of drawing upon the credit agreement. Rather, interest rates on any loans outstanding under the credit agreement are tied to debt ratings and therefore, a change in the debt rating would increase or decrease the cost of any loans under the credit agreement when ratings are changed. See "*Credit Ratings*" below.

NW Natural had no letters of credit outstanding at December 31, 2025 and 2024.

<u>SiEnergy</u>

On January 7, 2025, NW Holdings acquired all of the issued and outstanding limited liability company interests of SiEnergy. SiEnergy's subsidiary, SiEnergy Holdings, had a revolving credit facility (the SiEnergy Holdings Facility) that in aggregate had commitments of $5.0 million, including a letter of credit sublimit of $1.0 million. Loans extended under the SiEnergy Holdings Facility bore interest at a per annum rate equal to the sum of (a) either (i) the Base Rate, as defined in the Amended Credit Agreement (the Base Rate), or (ii) term SOFR with a one-, three- or six-month tenor; plus (b) the Applicable Margin. The Applicable Margin was 0.750% with respect to Base Rate loans and 1.750% with respect to SOFR loans. In August 2025, the SiEnergy Amended Credit Agreement was terminated and associated facilities are no longer available for financing.

On November 3, 2025, SiEnergy Holdings entered into a $75 million senior unsecured credit agreement, with a feature that allows SiEnergy to request increases in the total commitment amount, up to a maximum of $125 million, subject to lender approval. The maturity date of the SiEnergy Holdings credit agreement is November 3, 2030 (or, if such day is not a business day, the immediately preceding business day), with available extensions of commitments for two additional one-year periods, subject to lender approval. There were no outstanding balances under the SiEnergy agreement at December 31, 2025.

All lenders under the SiEnergy credit agreement are major financial institutions with committed balances and investment grade credit ratings as of December 31, 2025 as follows:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| *In millions* |  |
| Lender rating, by category | Loan Commitment |
| AA/Aa | $75 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | $75 |

---

The SiEnergy Holdings credit agreement permits the issuance of letters of credit in an aggregate amount of up to $20 million. SiEnergy had no letters of credit outstanding at December 31, 2025.

The SiEnergy Holdings credit agreement requires SiEnergy Holdings to comply, and to cause certain of its subsidiaries to comply, with various affirmative and negative covenants, including a financial covenant requiring SiEnergy Holdings to maintain a consolidated indebtedness to total capitalization ratio of 70% or less. Failure to comply with this or other applicable covenants or the occurrence of any other event of default, subject to, in certain instances, specified thresholds, cure periods and exceptions, would entitle the lenders to terminate their lending commitments and accelerate the maturity of all amounts outstanding. SiEnergy was in compliance with this covenant at December 31, 2025, with an indebtedness to total capitalization ratio of 33.4%.

The SiEnergy Holdings credit agreement also requires SiEnergy Holdings to maintain a credit rating with any one of S&P, Moody's or certain other rating organizations with respect to SiEnergy Holdings' senior, unsecured, non-credit enhanced long-term credit ratings (or, if such debt is not rated, corporate credit rating) and to notify the lenders of any change in such ratings by such rating agencies. A change in SiEnergy Holdings' credit ratings is not an event of default, nor is the maintenance of a specific minimum level of credit rating a condition of drawing upon the credit agreement. Rather, interest rates on any loans outstanding and certain fee amounts under the credit agreement are determined based upon SiEnergy Holdings' credit ratings with S&P and Moody's and therefore, a change in the credit rating may increase or decrease the cost of any loans and the amounts of certain fees under the credit agreement when ratings are changed. See "*Credit Ratings*" below.

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**<u>Letters of Credit Facility</u>**

Although there is no expressly stated maximum amount of Letters of Credit that can be issued or outstanding under the LC Facility, under current regulatory authority from the OPUC, the aggregate sum of Letters of Credit outstanding and available to be drawn under the LC Reimbursement Agreement may not exceed $100 million at any one time. The Issuing Banks have no commitment to issue Letters of Credit under the LC Facility and will have the discretion to limit and condition the terms for the issuance of Letters of Credit (including maximum face amounts) in their sole discretion.

The LC Reimbursement Agreement requires NW Natural to maintain certain ratings with S&P and Moody's. NW Natural must also notify the Administrative Agent and Lenders of any change in the S&P or Moody's Ratings, although any such change is not an event of default.

The LC Reimbursement Agreement prohibits NW Natural from permitting Consolidated Indebtedness to be greater than 70% of Total Capitalization, each as defined therein and calculated as of the end of each fiscal quarter of NW Natural. Failure to comply with this financial covenant would constitute an Event of Default under the LC Reimbursement Agreement. The occurrence of this or any other Event of Default would entitle the Administrative Agent to require cash collateral for the LC Exposure, as defined in the LC Reimbursement Agreement, and to exercise all other rights and remedies available to it and the Lenders under the Credit Documents, as defined in the LC Reimbursement Agreement, and under applicable law.

There were no letter of credits issued or outstanding under the LC reimbursement agreement at December 31, 2025. In January 2026, NW Natural issued a $100.0 million letter of credit under the LC Facility, which is expected to expire on March 13, 2026.

**<u>Credit Ratings</u>**

NW Holdings credit ratings are a factor of liquidity, potentially affecting access to the capital markets. NW Natural and SiEnergy's credit ratings also have an impact on the cost of funds.

The following table summarized NW Holdings' current credit ratings:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| | S&P |
| Commercial paper (short-term debt) | A-2 |
| Junior subordinated debentures | BBB |
| Issuer credit rating | A- |
| Ratings outlook | Stable |

---

The following table summarizes NW Natural's current credit ratings:

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | S&P | Moody's |
| Commercial paper (short-term debt) | A-1 | P-2 |
| Senior secured (long-term debt) | AA- | A2 |
| Senior unsecured (long-term debt) | n/a | Baa1 |
| Issuer credit rating | A+ | n/a |
| Ratings outlook | Stable | Stable |

---

The following table summarizes SiEnergy's current credit ratings:

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| | S&P |
| Issuer credit rating (SiEnergy Holding, LLC, formerly Si Investment Co., LLC) | BBB+ |
| Issuer credit rating (SiEnergy Gas, LLC, formerly SiEnergy, L.P.) | BBB+ |
| Senior secured notes (SiEnergy Gas, LLC, formerly SiEnergy, L.P.) | A |
| Ratings outlook | Stable |

---

The above credit ratings and ratings outlook are dependent upon a number of factors, both qualitative and quantitative, and are subject to change at any time. The disclosure of or reference to these credit ratings is not a recommendation to buy, sell or hold NW Holdings or NW Natural securities. Each rating should be evaluated independently of any other rating.

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As part of the ring-fencing conditions agreed upon with the OPUC and WUTC in connection with the holding company reorganization, NW Holdings and NW Natural are required to maintain separate credit ratings, long-term debt ratings, and preferred stock ratings, if any.

**<u>Long-Term Debt</u>**

**<u>Summary of Significant Debt Issuances</u>**

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| *In millions* | Year ended December 31, 2025 | Year ended December 31, 2025 | Year ended December 31, 2025 | Year ended December 31, 2025 |
| **NW Holdings** | Issuance Date | Maturity Date | Interest Rate | Amount |
| Unsecured Term Loan <sup>(a)(b)</sup> | January 2025 | August 2026 | SOFR + 90 bps Spread <sup>(c)</sup> | $50.0 |
| Junior Subordinated Debentures <sup>(d)(e)</sup> | March 2025 | September 2055 | 7.00% | 325.0 |
| **SiEnergy**<sup>(f)</sup> |  |  |  |  |
| Series A Senior Notes | August 2025 | August 2030 | 4.86% | 50.0 |
| Series B Senior Notes | August 2025 | August 2035 | 5.42% | 40.0 |
| Series C Senior Notes | August 2025 | August 2055 | 6.04% | 95.0 |
| **NW Natural**<sup>(g)</sup> |  |  |  |  |
| First Mortgage Bonds | December 2025 | May 2036 | 5.13% | 75.0 |
| First Mortgage Bonds | December 2025 | December 2055 | 5.90% | 125.0 |
|  |  | Total long-term debt issuance | Total long-term debt issuance | $760.0 |

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<sup>(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>Proceeds were used to support working capital needs and for general corporate purposes.

<sup>(b)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>On November 3, 2025, an amendment to the Term Loan extended the maturity date to August 6, 2026. NW Holdings may prepay the Term Loan without premium or penalty (other than customary breakage costs, if applicable). Amounts prepaid may not be reborrowed.

<sup>(c)</sup>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Term Loan Agreement bears interest at a per annum rate equal to the sum of (x) either (i) term SOFR with a one-, three- or six-month tenor, plus an adjustment of 0.10%, or (ii) the Alternate Base Rate, as defined in the Term Loan Agreement, plus (y) the Applicable Margin, as defined in the Term Loan Agreement. The Applicable Margin is 0.90% per annum, for term SOFR loans, and 0.00% per annum, for Alternate Base Rate loans.

<sup>(d)</sup>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds were used to repay the acquisition bridge facility entered into on January 7, 2025 by NW Holdings for the acquisitions of SiEnergy; any remaining proceeds were used for working capital needs and for general corporate purposes.

<sup>(e)</sup>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company will pay interest on the Junior Subordinated Debentures (i) from and including the date of original issuance to, but not including, September 15, 2035, at an annual rate of 7.00% and (ii) from and including September 15, 2035, during each Interest Reset Period at an annual rate equal to the Five-Year Treasury Rate as of the most recent Reset Interest Determination Date plus 2.701%.

<sup>(f)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>Proceeds were used to repay SiEnergy's $148.8 million remaining balance on the Delayed Draw Term Loan Facility.

<sup>(g)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>Proceeds were used to support working capital needs and for general corporate purposes including repayment of debt.

<u>NWN Water Interest Rate Swap Agreement</u>

In January 2023, NWN Water entered into an interest rate swap agreement with a major financial institution for $55.0 million that effectively converted variable-rate debt to a fixed rate of 3.80%. Interest payments made between the effective date and expiration date are hedged by the swap agreement. The interest rate swap agreement expires in June 2026, along with the variable-rate debt.

**<u>Retirement of Long-Term Debt</u>**

<u>NW Holdings</u>

In March 2025, the Acquisition Bridge Facility used to finance the acquisition of SiEnergy was repaid in full.

<u>NW Natural</u>

The following NW Natural debentures were retired in the periods indicated:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | Year Ended December 31, | Year Ended December 31, | Year Ended December 31, |
| *In millions* | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
| NW Natural First Mortgage Bonds: |  |  |  |
| 3.542% Series due 2023 | $— | $— | $50 |
| 5.620% Series due 2023 |  |  | 40 |
| 7.720% Series due 2025 | 20 |  |  |
| 6.520% Series due 2025 | 10 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | $30 | $— | $90 |

---

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<u>SiEnergy</u>

In August 2025, the proceeds of the senior notes issued by SiEnergy Gas, LLC in August 2025 (the August 2025 Notes) were used to extinguish the $148.8 million remaining balance of the SiEnergy Delayed Draw Term Loan Facility (SiEnergy DDTLF) (and the SiEnergy Revolving Credit Facility was terminated. The SiEnergy DDTLF and Revolving Credit Facility under SiEnergy's Credit Agreement were acquired by NW Holdings on January 7, 2025 as part of the acquisition of all of the issued and outstanding limited liability company interests of SiEnergy.

The SiEnergy DDTLF had initial aggregate commitments, as amended, of $200.0 million. The SiEnergy DDTLF was scheduled to mature on December 22, 2026. Loans extended under the SiEnergy DDTLF bore interest at a per annum rate equal to the sum of (a) either (i) the Base Rate, as defined in the Amended Credit Agreement (the Base Rate), or (ii) term SOFR with a one-, three- or six-month tenor; plus (b) the Applicable Margin. The Applicable Margin was 0.750% with respect to Base Rate loans and 1.750% with respect to SOFR loans.

<u>Maturities and Interest on Long-Term Debt</u>

Maturities and payment of interest on long-term debt for each of the annual periods through December 31, 2030 and thereafter are as follows:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| *In millions* | Long-term debt maturities | Interest on long-term debt |
| **NW Holdings:** |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2026 | $160.7 | $123.3 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2027 | 65.4 | 118.4 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2028 | 110.7 | 112.6 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2029 | 190.4 | 107.1 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2030 | 80.1 | 98.5 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Thereafter | 1841.4 | 1654.7 |
| NW Holdings Total | $2448.7 | $2214.6 |
| **NW Natural:** |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2026 | $55.0 | $71.3 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2027 | 64.7 | 68.9 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2028 | 10.0 | 66.0 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2029 | 50.0 | 64.9 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2030 | 30.0 | 63.5 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Thereafter | 1335.0 | 926.3 |
| NW Natural Total | $1544.7 | $1260.9 |

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**<u>Bankruptcy Ring-fencing Restrictions</u>**

As part of the ring-fencing conditions agreed upon with the OPUC and WUTC, NW Natural is required to have one director who is independent from NW Natural management and from NW Holdings and to issue one share of NW Natural preferred stock to an independent third party. NW Natural was in compliance with both of these ring-fencing provisions as of December 31, 2025 and 2024. NW Natural may file a voluntary petition for bankruptcy only if approved unanimously by the Board of Directors of NW Natural, including the independent director, and by the holder of the preferred share.

**<u>Pension Cost and Funding Status of Qualified Retirement Plans</u>**

NW Natural's pension costs are determined in accordance with accounting standards for compensation and retirement benefits. See "Application of Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates – *Pensions and Postretirement Benefits*" below. Pension expense for NW Natural's qualified defined benefit plan, which is allocated between operations and maintenance expenses and capital expenditures, totaled $10.4 million in 2025, a change of $6.3 million from 2024. The fair market value of pension assets in this plan increased to $302.3 million at December 31, 2025 from $284.1 million at December 31, 2024. The increase was due to employer contributions of $11.3 million and a gain on plan assets of $31.7 million, partially offset by benefit payments of $24.8 million.

Contributions made to NW Natural's company-sponsored qualified defined benefit pension plan are based on actuarial assumptions and estimates, tax regulations, and funding requirements under federal law. The qualified defined benefit pension plan was underfunded by $71.5 million at December 31, 2025. NW Natural made $11.3 million and $20.5 million of cash contributions to its qualified defined benefit pension plans during the years ended December 31, 2025, and December 31, 2024, respectively. The amount and timing of future contributions will depend on market interest rates and investment returns on the plan's assets. See Note 10 for information regarding employer contributions and estimated future benefit payments and other pension disclosures.

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**<u>Contingent Liabilities</u>**

Loss contingencies are recorded as liabilities when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss is reasonably estimable in accordance with accounting standards for contingencies. See "Application of Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates—*Environmental Contingencies*" below. At December 31, 2025, NW Natural's total estimated liability related to environmental sites was $162.0 million. See Note 17 and "Results of Operations—Regulatory Matters—Rate Mechanisms—*Environmental Cost Deferral and Recovery*" above.

**<u>New Accounting Pronouncements</u>** 

For a description of recent accounting pronouncements that may have an impact on our financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows, see Note 2.

***APPLICATION OF CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES***

In preparing financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, management exercises judgment to assess the potential outcomes and related accounting impacts in the selection and application of accounting principles, including making estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses, and related disclosures in the financial statements. Management considers critical accounting policies to be those which are most important to the representation of financial condition and results of operations and which require management's most difficult and subjective or complex judgments, including accounting estimates that could result in materially different amounts if reported under different conditions or used different assumptions. Our most critical estimates and judgments for both NW Holdings and NW Natural include accounting for:

• regulatory accounting;

• revenue recognition;

• derivative instruments and hedging activities;

• pensions and postretirement benefits;

• income taxes;

• environmental contingencies; and

• impairment of long-lived assets and goodwill.

Management has discussed its current estimates and judgments used in the application of critical accounting policies with the Audit Committees of the Boards of NW Holdings and NW Natural. Within the context of critical accounting policies and estimates, management is not aware of any reasonably likely events or circumstances that would result in materially different amounts being reported. For a description of recent accounting pronouncements that could have an impact on financial condition, results of operations or cash flows, see Note 2.

**<u>Regulatory Accounting</u>**

NWN Gas Utility, SiEnergy Gas Utility, and NWN Water include regulated entities. The NWN Gas Utility segment is regulated by the OPUC and WUTC, SiEnergy Gas is regulated by the RRC and the cities in which it provides service. Regulated entities at NWN Water are regulated by the utility commissions in the states in which they are located, including Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Idaho, and Texas. These commissions establish the rates designed to recover specific costs of providing regulatory services, and, to a certain extent, set forth special accounting treatment for certain regulatory transactions for which NW Natural, SiEnergy, and NWN Water record regulatory assets and liabilities. In general, the same accounting principles as non-regulated companies reporting under U.S. GAAP are used. However, authoritative guidance for regulated operations (regulatory accounting) requires different accounting treatment for regulated companies to show the effects of such regulation. For example, NW Natural accounts for the cost of gas using a PGA deferral and cost recovery mechanism, which is submitted for approval annually to the OPUC and WUTC. See "Results of Operations—Regulatory Matters—Rate Mechanisms—*Purchased Gas Adjustment*" above. There are other expenses and revenues that the OPUC or WUTC may require NW Natural to defer for recovery or refund in future periods. Regulatory accounting requires NW Natural to account for these types of deferred expenses (or deferred revenues) as regulatory assets (or regulatory liabilities) on the balance sheet. When the recovery of these regulatory assets from, or refund of regulatory liabilities to, customers is approved, NW Natural, SiEnergy, or NWN Water recognize the expense or revenue on the income statement at the same time the adjustment to amounts is included in rates charged to customers.

The conditions that must be satisfied to adopt the accounting policies and practices of regulatory accounting include:

• an independent regulator sets rates;

• the regulator sets the rates to cover specific costs of delivering service; and

• the service territory lacks competitive pressures to reduce rates below the rates set by the regulator.

NWN Gas Utility, SiEnergy Gas Utility, and NWN Water satisfy all three conditions and apply regulatory accounting at these businesses. Future accounting changes, regulatory changes, or changes in the competitive environment could require NW Holdings or NW Natural to discontinue the application of regulatory accounting for some or all of our regulated businesses. This would require the write-off of those regulatory assets and liabilities that would no longer be probable of recovery from or refund to customers.

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Based on current accounting and regulatory competitive conditions, NW Natural believes it is reasonable to expect continued application of regulatory accounting for NWN Gas Utility, SiEnergy Gas Utility, and NWN Water activities. Further, it is reasonable to expect the recovery or refund of regulatory assets and liabilities at December 31, 2025 through future customer rates at each applicable segment. If it is determined that all or a portion of these regulatory assets or liabilities no longer meet the criteria for continued application of regulatory accounting, then NW Natural SiEnergy, or NWN Water would be required to write-off the net unrecoverable balances against earnings in the period such determination is made. The net balance in regulatory asset and liability accounts at NW Natural was a net liability of $323.8 million and a net liability of $333.4 million as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. The net balance in regulatory asset and liability accounts at NW Holdings was a net liability of $328.4 million and a net liability of $333.7 million as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. See Note 2 for more detail on regulatory balances.

**<u>Revenue Recognition</u>** 

Revenues, which are derived primarily from the sale, transportation, storage of natural gas, and sale of water are recognized upon the delivery of commodity or services rendered to customers.

<u>Accrued Unbilled Revenue</u> 

For a description of the policy regarding accrued unbilled revenue, most of which relates to the NWN Gas Utility business at NW Natural, see Note 2. The following table presents changes in key metrics if the estimated percentage of unbilled volume at December 31 was adjusted up or down by 1%:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | 2025 | 2025 |
| *In millions* | Up 1% | Down 1% |
| Unbilled revenue increase (decrease) | $1.2 | $(1.2) |
| Margin increase (decrease) | 0.1 | (0.1) |
| Net income before tax increase (decrease) | 0.1 | (0.1) |

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**<u>Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities</u>** 

NW Holdings and NW Natural have financial derivative policies that set forth guidelines for using financial derivative instruments to support prudent risk management strategies. These policies specifically prohibit the use of derivatives for speculative purposes. Financial derivative contracts are utilized to hedge most of our natural gas sale requirements. These contracts include swaps, options, and combinations of option contracts. NW Natural primarily uses these derivative financial instruments to manage commodity price variability. A small portion of NW Natural's derivative hedging strategy involves foreign currency exchange contracts.

Derivative instruments are recorded on the balance sheet at fair value. If certain regulatory conditions are met, then the derivative instrument fair value is recorded together with an offsetting entry to a regulatory asset or liability account pursuant to regulatory accounting, and no unrealized gain or loss is recognized in current income or loss. See "*Regulatory Accounting*" above for additional information. The gain or loss from the fair value of a derivative instrument subject to regulatory deferral is included in the recovery from, or refund to, NWN Gas Utility business customers in future periods. If a derivative contract is not subject to regulatory deferral, then the accounting treatment for unrealized gains and losses is recorded in accordance with accounting standards for derivatives and hedging which is either in current income or loss or in accumulated other comprehensive income or loss (AOCI or AOCL). Derivative contracts outstanding at December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023 were measured at fair value using models or other market accepted valuation methodologies derived from observable market data. Estimates of fair value may change significantly from period-to-period depending on market conditions, notional amounts, and prices. These changes may have an impact on results of operations, but the impact would generally be mitigated due to the majority of derivative activities being subject to regulatory deferral treatment. For more information on derivative activity and associated regulatory treatment, see Note 2 and Note 15.

The following table summarizes the amount of gains (losses) realized from commodity price transactions for the last three years:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| *In millions* | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
| NWN Gas Utility business net gain (loss) on commodity swaps | $(91.7) | $(119.2) | $125.5 |

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Realized gains and losses from commodity hedges shown above were recorded in cost of gas and were, or will be, included in annual PGA rates.

NWN Water also uses financial derivatives to hedge interest rate risk in the form of a pay-fixed interest rate swap. Unrealized gains and losses related to the interest rate swap agreement qualifies for cash flow hedge accounting and are recorded in AOCI on the consolidated balance sheet.

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**<u>Pensions and Postretirement Benefits</u>**

NW Natural maintains a qualified non-contributory defined benefit pension plan, non-qualified supplemental pension plans for eligible executive officers and certain key employees, and other postretirement employee benefit plans covering certain non-union employees. NW Natural also has a qualified defined contribution plan (Retirement K Savings Plan) for all eligible employees. Only the qualified defined benefit pension plan and Retirement K Savings Plan have plan assets, which are held in qualified trusts to fund the respective retirement benefits. The qualified defined benefit retirement plan for union and non-union employees was closed to new participants several years ago. Non-union and union employees hired or re-hired after December 31, 2006 and 2009, respectively, and employees of certain NW Holdings subsidiaries are provided an enhanced Retirement K Savings Plan benefit. The postretirement Welfare Benefit Plan for non-union employees was also closed to new participants several years ago.

Net periodic pension and postretirement benefit costs (retirement benefit costs) and projected benefit obligations (benefit obligations) are determined using a number of key assumptions, including discount rates, rates of compensation increase, retirement ages, mortality rates and an expected long-term return on plan assets. See Note 10.

The vested benefit obligation for the defined benefit pension plan is the actuarial present value of the vested benefits to which the employee is entitled based on the employee's expected date of separation or retirement based on valuation assumptions.

Accounting standards also require balance sheet recognition of unamortized actuarial gains and losses and prior service costs in AOCI or AOCL, net of tax. However, the retirement benefit costs related to qualified defined benefit pension and postretirement benefit plans are generally recovered in rates charged to NWN Gas Utility customers, which are set based on accounting standards for pensions and postretirement benefit expenses. As such, NW Natural received approval from the OPUC to recognize the unamortized actuarial gains and losses and prior service costs as a regulatory asset or regulatory liability based on expected rate recovery, rather than including it as AOCI or AOCL under common equity. See "*Regulatory Accounting"* above and Note 2, "*Industry Regulation.*"

A number of factors, as discussed above, are considered in developing pension and postretirement benefit assumptions. For the December 31, 2025 measurement date, NW Natural reviewed and updated:

• the weighted-average discount rate assumptions for pensions decreased from 5.56% for 2024 to 5.35% for 2025, and the weighted-average discount rate assumptions for other postretirement benefits decreased from 5.53% for 2024 to 5.28% for 2025. The new rate assumptions were determined for each plan based on a matching of benchmark interest rates to the estimated cash flows, which reflect the timing and amount of future benefit payments. Benchmark interest rates are drawn from the FTSE Above Median Curve, which consists of high quality bonds rated AA- or higher by S&P or Aa3 or higher by Moody's;

• the expected annual rate of future compensation is separately determined for bargaining unit and non-bargaining unit employees. The rate assumption ranges from 4.5% to 5.1% in 2025 and thereafter;

• the expected long-term return on qualified defined benefit plan assets remained the same at 7.50% in 2024 and 2025; and

• other key assumptions, which were based on actual plan experience and actuarial recommendations.

At December 31, 2025, the net pension liability (benefit obligations less market value of plan assets) for the defined benefit pension plan decreased $17.3 million compared to 2024. The decrease in the net pension liability is primarily due to the $1.0 million increase to the pension benefit obligation and the $18.3 million increase in plan assets. The liability for non-qualified plans decreased $9.8 million and the liability for other postretirement benefits increased $0.5 million in 2025.

The expected long-term rate of return on assets is based on a forward-looking capital markets model along with the defined benefit pension plan current and target asset allocation. The model inputs are based on future expected long-term total returns and historical volatilities for various asset classes, along with their historical correlations. The model considers current investment-grade yields for fixed income investments, and the same plus a risk premium for riskier assets such as common stocks.

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NW Natural believes its pension assumptions are appropriate based on plan design and an assessment of market conditions. The following shows the sensitivity of retirement benefit costs and benefit obligations to changes in certain actuarial assumptions:

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| *Dollars in millions* | Change in Assumption | Impact on 2025 Retirement Benefit Costs | Impact on Retirement<br>Benefit Obligations at Dec. 31, 2025 |
| Discount rate: | (0.25)% |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Qualified defined benefit plans |  | $1.1 | $9.7 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Non-qualified plans |  |  | 0.1 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other postretirement benefits |  |  | 0.5 |
| Expected long-term return on plan assets: | (0.25)% |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Qualified defined benefit plans |  | 0.7 | N/A |

---

**<u>Income Taxes</u>**

<u>Valuation Allowances</u> 

Deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent that these assets are believed to be more likely than not to be realized. In making such a determination, available positive and negative evidence is considered, including future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, projected future taxable income, tax-planning strategies, and results of recent operations. NW Holdings and NW Natural have determined that all recorded deferred tax assets are more likely than not to be realized as of December 31, 2025. See Note 11.

<u>Uncertain Tax Benefits</u> 

The calculation of tax liabilities involves dealing with uncertainties in the application of complex tax laws and regulations in the jurisdictions in which we operate. A tax benefit from a material uncertain tax position will only be recognized when it is more likely than not that the position, or some portion thereof, will be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, on the basis of the technical merits. NW Holdings and NW Natural participate in the Compliance Assurance Process (CAP) with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Under the CAP program companies work with the IRS to identify and resolve material tax matters before the federal income tax return is filed each year. No reserves for uncertain tax &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;benefits were recorded during 2025, 2024, or 2023. See Note 11.

<u>Tax Legislation</u> 

When significant proposed or enacted changes in income tax rules occur, we consider whether there may be a material impact to our financial position, results of operations, cash flows, or whether the changes could materially affect existing assumptions used in making estimates of tax related balances.

The final tangible property regulations applicable to all taxpayers were issued on September 13, 2013 and were generally effective for taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2014. In April 2023, the IRS published Revenue Procedure 2023-15 that provides a safe harbor method of income tax accounting for determining when expenditures for natural gas transmission and distribution property must be capitalized or are allowable as repair deductions. We have evaluated this new safe harbor and do not believe that the safe harbor method is materially different from NW Natural's current repairs methodology or that this additional guidance would have a material effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

<u>Regulatory Matters</u> 

Regulatory tax assets and liabilities are recorded to the extent it is probable they will be recoverable from, or refunded to, customers in the future. At December 31, 2025 and 2024, NW Natural had net regulatory income tax assets of $3.6 million and $5.8 million, respectively, representing future rate recovery of deferred tax liabilities resulting from differences in NWN Gas Utility plant financial statement and tax bases and NWN Gas Utility plant removal costs. These regulatory assets are currently being recovered through customer rates. At December 31, 2025 and 2024, regulatory income tax assets of $7.8 million and $6.0 million, respectively, were recorded by NW Natural, representing future rate recovery of deferred tax liabilities resulting from the equity portion of AFUDC. These regulatory assets are currently being recovered through customer rates.

At December 31, 2025 and 2024, regulatory liability balances, representing the estimated net benefit to NWN Gas Utility customers resulting from the change in deferred taxes as a result of the Tax Cut and Jobs Act (TCJA), of $164.6 million and $169.5 million, respectively, were recorded by NW Natural. These balances include a gross up for income taxes of $43.6 million and $44.9 million, respectively. These regulatory liabilities are currently being amortized as a reduction in customer rates.

**<u>Environmental Contingencies</u>** 

Environmental liabilities are accounted for in accordance with accounting standards under the loss contingency guidance when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss is reasonably estimable. Amounts recorded for environmental contingencies take numerous factors into consideration, including, among other variables, changes in enacted laws, regulatory orders, estimated remediation costs, interest rates, insurance proceeds, participation by other parties, timing of

------

payments, and the input of legal counsel and third-party experts. Accordingly, changes in any of these variables or other factual circumstances could have a material impact on the amounts recorded for our environmental liabilities. For a complete discussion of environmental accounting policies refer to Note 2. For a discussion of current environmental sites and liabilities refer to Note 17. In addition, for information regarding the regulatory treatment of these costs and NW Natural's regulatory recovery mechanism, see "Results of Operations—Regulatory Matters—Rate Mechanisms—*Environmental Cost Deferral and Recovery*" above.

**<u>Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Goodwill</u>**

<u>Long-Lived Assets</u>

We review the carrying value of long-lived assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of the assets might not be recoverable. Factors that would necessitate an impairment assessment of long-lived assets include a significant adverse change in the extent or manner in which the asset is used, a significant adverse change in legal factors or business climate that could affect the value of the asset, or a significant decline in the observable market value or expected future cash flows of the asset, among others.

When such factors are present, we assess the recoverability by determining whether the carrying value of the asset will be recovered through expected future cash flows. An asset is determined to be impaired when the carrying value of the asset exceeds the expected undiscounted future cash flows from the use and eventual disposition of the asset. If an impairment is indicated, we record an impairment loss for the difference between the carrying value and the fair value of the long-lived assets. Fair value is estimated using appropriate valuation methodologies, which may include an estimate of discounted cash flows.

<u>Goodwill and Business Combinations</u>

In a business combination, goodwill is initially measured as any excess of the acquisition-date fair value of the consideration transferred over the acquisition-date fair value of the net identifiable assets acquired.

The carrying value of goodwill is reviewed annually during the fourth quarter, or whenever events or changes in circumstance indicate that such carrying values may not be recoverable.

NW Holdings' policy for goodwill assessments begins with a qualitative analysis in which events and circumstances are evaluated, including macroeconomic conditions, industry and market conditions, regulatory environments, and the overall financial performance of the reporting unit. If the qualitative assessment indicates that the carrying value may be at risk of recoverability, a quantitative evaluation is performed to measure the carrying value against the fair value of the reporting unit. This evaluation may involve the assessment of future cash flows and other subjective factors for which uncertainty exists and could impact the estimation of future cash flows. These factors include, but are not limited to, the amount and timing of future cash flows, future growth rates, and the discount rate. Unforeseen events and changes in circumstances or market conditions could adversely affect these estimates, which could result in an impairment charge. A qualitative assessment was performed during the fourth quarter of 2025 which indicated a quantitative assessment was not required; thus, no goodwill impairment was recorded. See Note 2 and Note 14 for additional information.

Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method. The cost of an acquisition is measured as the aggregate of the consideration transferred, measured at fair value at the acquisition date, and the fair value of any non-controlling interest in the acquiree. Acquisition-related costs are expensed as incurred. When NW Holdings acquires a business, it assesses the financial assets acquired and liabilities assumed for appropriate classification and designation in accordance with the contractual terms, economic circumstances and pertinent conditions as of the acquisition date. When there is substantial judgment or uncertainty around the fair value of acquired assets, we may engage a third party expert to assist in determining the fair values of certain assets or liabilities.

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ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

NW Holdings and NW Natural are exposed to various forms of market risk including commodity supply risk, commodity price risk, interest rate risk, foreign currency risk, credit risk and weather risk. Management monitors and manages these financial exposures as an integral part of NW Holdings' and NW Natural's overall risk management program. The following describes NW Holdings' and NW Natural's exposure to these risks, as applicable.

**<u>Commodity Supply Risk</u>**

NW Natural enters into spot, short-term, and long-term natural gas supply contracts, along with associated pipeline transportation contracts, to manage commodity supply risk. NW Natural has arranged for physical delivery of an adequate supply of gas, including gas in its Mist storage facility and other off-system storage facilities, to meet expected requirements of core NWN Gas Utility customers. NW Natural's long-term gas supply contracts are primarily index-based and subject to monthly re-pricing, a strategy that is intended to substantially mitigate credit exposure to physical gas counterparties. Absolute notional amounts under physical gas contracts related to open positions on derivative instruments were 692 million therms and 561 million therms as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.

**<u>Commodity Price Risk</u>**

Natural gas commodity prices are subject to market fluctuations due to unpredictable factors including weather, pipeline transportation congestion, drilling technologies, market speculation, governmental tariffs and other factors that affect supply and demand. For NW Natural, commodity price risk is primarily hedged with financial swaps, storage and physical gas reserves from a long-term investment in working interests in gas leases operated by Jonah Energy. These hedges are generally included in NW Natural's annual PGA filing for recovery, subject to a regulatory prudence review. Notional amounts under financial derivative contracts were $279.9 million and $303.7 million as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. The fair value of financial swaps, based on market prices at December 31, 2025, was an unrealized loss of $71.1 million, which would result in cash outflows of $61.0 million in 2026, $7.2 million in 2027, and $2.9 million in 2028. For SiEnergy, fluctuations in commodity gas prices are included in the PGA and passed onto customers.

**<u>Interest Rate Risk</u>**

NW Holdings and NW Natural are exposed to interest rate risk primarily associated with debt financing needed to fund capital requirements, including future contractual obligations and maturities of long-term and short-term debt. Interest rate risk is primarily managed through the issuance of fixed-rate debt with varying maturities. NW Holdings and NW Natural may also enter into financial derivative instruments, including interest rate swaps, options and other hedging instruments, to manage and mitigate interest rate exposure. NW Holdings and NWN Water entered into interest rate swaps transactions for a total notional amount of $155 million to manage variable interest rate risk in December 2022. Unrealized gains related to these interest rate swap agreements were immaterial as of December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024.

**<u>Foreign Currency Risk</u>**

The costs of certain pipeline fees are subject to changes in the value of the Canadian currency in relation to the U.S. currency. Foreign currency forward contracts are used to hedge against fluctuations in exchange rates for NW Natural's commodity-related demand and reservation charges paid in Canadian dollars. Notional amounts under foreign currency forward contracts were $8.6 million and $10.3 million as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. If all of the foreign currency forward contracts had been settled on December 31, 2025, an immaterial gain would have been realized. See Note 15.

**<u>Credit Risk</u>**

<u>Credit Exposure to Natural Gas Suppliers</u> 

Certain gas suppliers have either relatively low credit ratings or are not rated by major credit rating agencies. To manage this supply risk, NW Natural purchases gas from a number of different suppliers at liquid exchange points. NW Natural evaluates and monitors suppliers' creditworthiness and maintains the ability to require additional financial assurances, including deposits, letters of credit, or surety bonds, in case a supplier defaults. In the event of a supplier's failure to deliver contracted volumes of gas, the NWN Gas Utility business would need to replace those volumes at prevailing market prices, which may be higher or lower than the original transaction prices. NW Natural expects these costs would be subject to its PGA sharing mechanism discussed above. Since most of NW Natural's commodity supply contracts are priced at the daily or monthly market index price tied to liquid exchange points, and NW Natural has adequate storage flexibility, NW Natural believes it is unlikely a supplier default would have a material adverse effect on its financial condition or results of operations.

------

<u>Credit Exposure to Financial Derivative Counterparties</u>

NW Natural did not have any counterparty credit exposure related to commodity swap counterparties based on their estimated fair value at December 31, 2025. NW Natural does not have credit exposure to financial commodity swap derivative counterparties when the value of contracts in an unrealized loss position exceeds that of contracts in an unrealized gain position. The net unrealized loss position occurs when forward market prices are lower than our hedge prices. NW Natural's credit exposure also includes interest rate swap and foreign exchange forward counterparties, neither of which were significant at December 31, 2025. NW Natural's financial derivatives policy requires counterparties to have at least an investment-grade credit rating at the time the derivative instrument is entered into and specific limits on the potential financial exposure and duration based on each counterparty's credit rating. NW Natural actively monitors and manages derivative credit exposure and places counterparties on hold for trading purposes or requires cash collateral, letters of credit, or guarantees as circumstances warrant.

The following table summarizes NW Natural's overall financial swap and option credit exposure, based on estimated fair value, and the corresponding counterparty credit ratings. The table uses credit ratings from S&P and Moody's, reflecting the higher of the S&P or Moody's rating or a middle rating if the entity is split-rated with more than one rating level difference:

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | Financial Derivative Position by Credit Rating<br>Unrealized Fair Value Gain (Loss) | Financial Derivative Position by Credit Rating<br>Unrealized Fair Value Gain (Loss) |
| *In millions* | 2025 | 2024 |
| AA/Aa | $(58.0) | $(71.9) |
| A/A | (13.1) | (10.8) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | $(71.1) | $(82.7) |

---

In most cases, NW Natural also mitigates the credit risk of financial derivatives by having master netting arrangements with counterparties which provide for making or receiving net cash settlements. Transactions of the same type in the same currency that have settlement on the same day with a single counterparty are netted and a single payment is delivered or received depending on which party is due funds.

Additionally, NW Natural has master contracts in place with each derivative counterparty, most of which include provisions for posting or calling for collateral. Generally, NW Natural can obtain cash or marketable securities as collateral with one day's notice. Various collateral management strategies are used to reduce liquidity risk. The collateral provisions vary by counterparty but are not expected to result in the significant posting of collateral, if any. NW Natural has performed stress tests on the gas portfolio and concluded the liquidity risk from collateral calls is not material. Derivative credit exposure is primarily with investment grade counterparties rated AA-/Aa3 or higher. Contracts are diversified by counterparty, industry, sector and country to reduce credit and liquidity risk.

At December 31, 2025, financial derivative commodity credit risk on a volumetric basis was geographically concentrated 20% in the United States and 77% in Canada, based on counterparties' location. At December 31, 2024, financial derivative commodity credit risk on a volumetric basis was geographically concentrated 17% in the United States and 83% in Canada with our counterparties.

<u>Credit Exposure to Insurance Companies</u>

Credit exposure to insurance companies for loss or damage claims could be material. NW Holdings and NW Natural regularly monitor the financial condition of insurance companies who provide general liability insurance policy coverage to NW Holdings, NW Natural, their predecessors, and their subsidiaries.

**<u>Weather Risk</u>** 

NW Natural has a weather normalization mechanism in Oregon; however, it is exposed to weather risk primarily from NWN Gas Utility business operations. A large percentage of NWN Gas Utility margin is volume driven, and current rates are based on an assumption of average weather. NW Natural's weather normalization mechanism in Oregon is for residential and small commercial customers, which is intended to stabilize the recovery of NWN Gas Utility business fixed costs and reduce fluctuations in customers' bills due to colder or warmer than average weather. Customers in Oregon are allowed to opt out of the weather normalization mechanism. As of December 31, 2025, approximately 7% of Oregon customers had opted out. In addition to the Oregon customers opting out, Washington customers account for approximately 12% of our total customer base and are not covered by weather normalization. The combination of Oregon and Washington customers not covered by a weather normalization mechanism is 19% of all customers. SiEnergy also has a weather normalization mechanism. See "Results of Operations—Regulatory Matters—Rate Mechanisms—*WARM*" above.

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ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

*****TABLE OF CONTENTS*****

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | | Page |
| 1. | <u>[Management's Reports on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_163)</u> | <u>[76](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_163)</u> |
| 2. | <u>[Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_169)</u> (PCAOB ID 238) | <u>[78](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_169)</u> |
| 3. | Consolidated Financial Statements: |  |
|  | <u>[Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) of Northwest Natural Holding Company for the Years Ended December 31, 2025, 2024, and 2023](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_175)</u> | <u>[82](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_175)</u> |
|  | <u>[Consolidated Balance Sheets of Northwest Natural Holding Company at December 31, 2025 and 2024](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_178)</u> | <u>[83](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_178)</u> |
|  | <u>[Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity of Northwest Natural Holding Company for the Years Ended December 31, 2025, 2024, and 2023](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_181)</u> | <u>[85](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_181)</u> |
|  | <u>[Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows of Northwest Natural Holding Company for the Years Ended December 31, 2025, 2024, and 2023](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_184)</u> | <u>[86](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_184)</u> |
|  | <u>[Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) of Northwest Natural Gas Company for the Years Ended December 31, 2025, 2024, and 2023](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_187)</u> | <u>[88](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_187)</u> |
|  | <u>[Consolidated Balance Sheets of Northwest Natural Gas Company at December 31, 2025 and 2024](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_190)</u> | <u>[89](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_190)</u> |
|  | <u>[Consolidated Statements of Shareholder's Equity of Northwest Natural Gas Company for the Years Ended December 31, 2025, 2024, and 2023](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_193)</u> | <u>[91](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_193)</u> |
|  | <u>[Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows of Northwest Natural Gas Company for the Years Ended December 31, 2025, 2024, and 2023](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_196)</u> | <u>[92](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_196)</u> |
|  | <u>[Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_199)</u> | <u>[94](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_199)</u> |
| 4. | Supplementary Data for the Years Ended December 31, 2025, 2024, and 2023: |  |
|  | Financial Statement Schedules |  |
|  | <u>[Schedule I - Condensed Financial Information of Northwest Natural Holding Company at December 31, 2025 and 2024, and for the Years Ended December 31, 2025, 2024, and 2023](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_277)</u> | <u>[147](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_277)</u> |
|  | <u>[Schedule II – Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves of Northwest Natural Holding Company and Northwest Natural Gas Company for the Years Ended December 31, 2025, 2024, and 2023](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_292)</u> | <u>[151](#i9dae200fd22041aba863d4598ab44204_292)</u> |

---

Supplemental Schedules Omitted

All other schedules are omitted because of the absence of the conditions under which they are required or because the required information is included elsewhere in the financial statements.

------

***NW HOLDINGS MANAGEMENT'S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING***

NW Holdings management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) or 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. NW Holdings' internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (U.S. GAAP). NW Holdings' internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that:

(i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions involving company assets;

(ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit the preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, and that receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and the NW Holdings Board of Directors; and

(iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of the unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of NW Holdings' assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements or fraud. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Management has excluded SiEnergy Operating, LLC (SiEnergy) from its assessment of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2025 as it was acquired by the Company in a purchase business combination during 2025. Total assets and total net sales of SiEnergy excluded from management's assessment of internal control over financial reporting represent approximately 9.6% and 5.1%, respectively, of the related consolidated financial statement amounts as of and for the year ended December 31, 2025. This exclusion is in accordance with the guidelines established by the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Except as noted above, NW Holdings management assessed the effectiveness of NW Holdings' internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2025. In making this assessment, NW Holdings management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in *Internal Control-Integrated Framework* (2013).

Based on NW Holdings management's assessment and those criteria, NW Holdings management has concluded that it maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2025.

The effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2025 has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report which appears in this annual report.

<u>/s/ Justin B. Palfreyman&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</u>

Justin B. Palfreyman

Chief Executive Officer

<u>/s/ Raymond Kaszuba III</u>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Raymond Kaszuba III

Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

February 27, 2026

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***NW NATURAL MANAGEMENT'S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING***

NW Natural management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) or 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. NW Natural's internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (U.S. GAAP). NW Natural's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that:

(i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions involving company assets;

(ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit the preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, and that receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and the NW Natural Board of Directors; and

(iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of the unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of NW Natural's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements or fraud. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

NW Natural management assessed the effectiveness of NW Natural's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2025. In making this assessment, NW Natural management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in *Internal Control-Integrated Framework* (2013).

Based on NW Natural management's assessment and those criteria, NW Natural management has concluded that it maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2025.

<u>/s/ Justin B. Palfreyman</u>

Justin B. Palfreyman

Chief Executive Officer

<u>/s/ Raymond Kaszuba III</u>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Raymond Kaszuba III

Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

February 27, 2026

------

***REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM***

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Northwest Natural Holding Company

***Opinions on the Financial Statements and Internal Control over Financial Reporting***

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Northwest Natural Holding Company and its subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, and the related consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss), of shareholders' equity and of cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2025, including the related notes and financial statement schedules listed in the accompanying index (collectively referred to as the "consolidated financial statements"). We also have audited the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2025, based on criteria established in *Internal Control - Integrated Framework* (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2025 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2025, based on criteria established in *Internal Control - Integrated Framework* (2013) issued by the COSO.

***Basis for Opinions***

The Company's management is responsible for these consolidated financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management's Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express opinions on the Company's consolidated financial statements and on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud, and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.

Our audits of the consolidated financial statements included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

As described in Management's Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting, management has excluded SiEnergy Operating, LLC from its assessment of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2025, because it was acquired by the Company in a purchase business combination during 2025. We have also excluded SiEnergy Operating, LLC from our audit of internal control over financial reporting. SiEnergy Operating, LLC is a wholly-owned subsidiary whose total assets and total revenues excluded from management's assessment and our audit of internal control over financial reporting represent 9.6% and 5.1%, respectively, of the related consolidated financial statement amounts as of and for the year ended December 31, 2025.

***Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting***

A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

------

***Critical Audit Matters***

The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current period audit of the consolidated financial statements that was communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (i) relates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the consolidated financial statements and (ii) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate opinion on the critical audit matter or on the accounts or disclosures to which it relates.

*Accounting for the Effects of Regulatory Matters*

As described in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, there were $567.9 million of regulatory assets and $896.4 million of regulatory liabilities as of December 31, 2025. The Company's principal business is to operate as a holding company for Northwest Natural Gas Company ("NW Natural"), SiEnergy, NWN Water, and its other subsidiaries. NW Natural's and SiEnergy's principal businesses are the distribution of natural gas, and NWN Water's principal business is water and wastewater utility services, the majority of which are regulated. As disclosed by management, regulatory accounting requires management to account for deferred expenses as regulatory assets and deferred revenues as regulatory liabilities on the balance sheet. When the recovery of these regulatory assets from, or refund of regulatory liabilities to, customers is approved, management recognizes the expense or revenue in the income statement at the same time the amounts are included in rates charged to customers.

The principal considerations for our determination that performing procedures relating to the accounting for the effects of regulatory matters is a critical audit matter are a high degree of auditor effort in performing procedures and evaluating audit evidence related to the probability of recovery of regulatory assets and refund of regulatory liabilities.

Addressing the matter involved performing procedures and evaluating audit evidence in connection with forming our overall opinion on the consolidated financial statements. These procedures included testing the effectiveness of controls relating to management's assessment of regulatory proceedings, including controls over the probability of recovery of regulatory assets and refund of regulatory liabilities, and the related accounting and disclosure impacts. These procedures also included, among others (i) evaluating the reasonableness of management's assessment regarding the probability of recovery of regulatory assets and refund of regulatory liabilities and (ii) testing, on a sample basis, regulatory assets and regulatory liabilities by considering (a) the provisions and formulas outlined in rate orders; (b) other regulatory proceedings and correspondence; and (c) the application of relevant regulatory precedents.

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Portland, Oregon

February 27, 2026

We have served as the Company's auditor since 1997. 

------

***REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM***

To the Board of Directors and Shareholder of Northwest Natural Gas Company:

***Opinion on the Financial Statements***

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Northwest Natural Gas Company and its subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, and the related consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss), of shareholder's equity and of cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2025, including the related notes and financial statement schedule listed in the accompanying index (collectively referred to as the "consolidated financial statements"). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2025 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

***Basis for Opinion***

These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits of these consolidated financial statements in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

***Critical Audit Matters***

The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current period audit of the consolidated financial statements that was communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (i) relates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the consolidated financial statements and (ii) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate opinion on the critical audit matter or on the accounts or disclosures to which it relates.

*Accounting for the Effects of Regulatory Matters*

As described in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, there were $563.0 million of regulatory assets and $886.8 million of regulatory liabilities as of December 31, 2025. The Company's principal business is the distribution of natural gas, which is regulated. As disclosed by management, regulatory accounting requires management to account for deferred expenses as regulatory assets and deferred revenues as regulatory liabilities on the balance sheet. When the recovery of these regulatory assets from, or refund of regulatory liabilities to, customers is approved, management recognizes the expense or revenue in the income statement at the same time the amounts are included in rates charged to customers.

The principal considerations for our determination that performing procedures relating to the accounting for the effects of regulatory matters is a critical audit matter are a high degree of auditor effort in performing procedures and evaluating audit evidence related to the probability of recovery of regulatory assets and refund of regulatory liabilities.

------

Addressing the matter involved performing procedures and evaluating audit evidence in connection with forming our overall opinion on the consolidated financial statements. These procedures included testing the effectiveness of controls relating to management's assessment of regulatory proceedings, including controls over the probability of recovery of regulatory assets and refund of regulatory liabilities, and the related accounting and disclosure impacts. These procedures also included, among others (i) evaluating the reasonableness of management's assessment regarding the probability of recovery of regulatory assets and refund of regulatory liabilities and (ii) testing, on a sample basis, regulatory assets and regulatory liabilities by considering (a) the provisions and formulas outlined in rate orders; (b) other regulatory proceedings and correspondence; and (c) the application of relevant regulatory precedents.

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Portland, Oregon

February 27, 2026

We have served as the Company's auditor since 1997. 

------

**NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY**

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | Year Ended December 31, | Year Ended December 31, | Year Ended December 31, |
| *In thousands, except per share data* | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Operating revenues | $1289363 | $1152994 | $1197475 |
| Operating expenses: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cost of gas | 395576 | 412382 | 499837 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operations and maintenance | 327365 | 294658 | 273766 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Environmental remediation | 14623 | 14054 | 12899 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;General taxes | 52046 | 48672 | 46248 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Revenue taxes | 48165 | 48343 | 48671 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Depreciation | 165506 | 137898 | 125581 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other operating expenses | 5191 | 5845 | 5532 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total operating expenses | 1008472 | 961852 | 1012534 |
| Income from operations | 280891 | 191142 | 184941 |
| Other income (expense), net | (3700) | (1108) | 17855 |
| Interest expense, net | 122513 | 80092 | 76566 |
| Income before income taxes | 154678 | 109942 | 126230 |
| Income tax expense | 41359 | 31071 | 32362 |
| Net income | 113319 | 78871 | 93868 |
| Other comprehensive income (loss): |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Change in employee benefit plan liability, net of taxes of $(241) for 2025, $40 for 2024, and $443 for 2023 | 670 | (399) | (1233) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amortization of non-qualified employee benefit plan liability, net of taxes of $(526) for 2025, $(210) for 2024, and $(148) for 2023 | 1677 | 584 | 410 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Unrealized (loss) gain on interest rate swaps, net of taxes of $65 for 2025, $13 for 2024, and $(21) for 2023 | (194) | (36) | 59 |
| Comprehensive income | $115472 | $79020 | $93104 |
| Average common shares outstanding: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Basic | 40864 | 38809 | 36213 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Diluted | 40953 | 38869 | 36265 |
| Earnings per share of common stock: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Basic | $2.77 | $2.03 | $2.59 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Diluted | 2.77 | 2.03 | 2.59 |

---

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

------

**NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY**

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | As of December 31, | As of December 31, |
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 |
| Assets: |  |  |
| Current assets: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash and cash equivalents | $36673 | $38490 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Accounts receivable | 121875 | 124480 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Accrued unbilled revenue | 97238 | 94400 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Allowance for uncollectible accounts | (4068) | (3474) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Regulatory assets | 143745 | 130116 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Derivative instruments | 3922 | 6628 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Inventories | 127697 | 106954 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other current assets | 75850 | 60180 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total current assets | 602932 | 557774 |
| Non-current assets: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Property, plant, and equipment | 5640435 | 4918919 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Less: Accumulated depreciation | 1288422 | 1246592 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total property, plant, and equipment, net | 4352013 | 3672327 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Regulatory assets | 424194 | 382499 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Derivative instruments | 366 | 535 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other investments | 80676 | 82236 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operating lease right of use asset, net | 68224 | 68626 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Assets under sales-type leases | 121470 | 125653 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Goodwill | 370815 | 183804 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other non-current assets | 146351 | 160862 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total non-current assets | 5564109 | 4676542 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total assets | $6167041 | $5234316 |

---

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

------

**NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY**

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | As of December 31, | As of December 31, |
| *In thousands, except share information* | 2025 | 2024 |
| Liabilities and equity: |  |  |
| Current liabilities: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Short-term debt | $171989 | $170110 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Current maturities of long-term debt | 160627 | 30787 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Accounts payable | 175566 | 133270 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Taxes accrued | 18123 | 16176 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interest accrued | 26121 | 18220 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Regulatory liabilities | 137974 | 116180 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Derivative instruments | 63631 | 75272 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operating lease liabilities | 3228 | 1840 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other current liabilities | 79186 | 87162 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total current liabilities | 836445 | 649017 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Long-term debt | 2272202 | 1679355 |
| Deferred credits and other non-current liabilities: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deferred tax liabilities | 437467 | 397149 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Regulatory liabilities | 758407 | 730117 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pension and other postretirement benefit liabilities | 112139 | 130397 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Derivative instruments | 14039 | 13307 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operating lease liabilities | 74986 | 75914 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other non-current liabilities | 186280 | 173689 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total deferred credits and other non-current liabilities | 1583318 | 1520573 |
| Commitments and contingencies (see Note 16 and Note 17) |  |  |
| Equity: |  |  |
| Common stock - no par value; authorized 100,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding 41,563,577 and 40,222,305 at December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively | 1044000 | 989346 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Retained earnings | 435823 | 402925 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Accumulated other comprehensive loss | (4747) | (6900) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total equity | 1475076 | 1385371 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total liabilities and equity | $6167041 | $5234316 |

---

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

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**NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY**

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | Common Stock | Retained Earnings | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | Total<br>Equity |
| *In thousands* | Common Stock | Retained Earnings | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | Total<br>Equity |
| Balance at December 31, 2022 | $805253 | $376473 | $(6285) | $1175441 |
| Comprehensive income (loss) |  | 93868 | (764) | 93104 |
| Dividends on common stock, $1.94 per share |  | (70430) |  | (70430) |
| Stock-based compensation | 3598 |  |  | 3598 |
| Shares issued in connection with business combinations | 12884 |  |  | 12884 |
| Shares issued pursuant to equity based plans, net of shares withheld for taxes | 2328 |  |  | 2328 |
| Issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs | 66913 |  |  | 66913 |
| Balance at December 31, 2023 | 890976 | 399911 | (7049) | 1283838 |
| Comprehensive income |  | 78871 | 149 | 79020 |
| Dividends on common stock, $1.95 per share |  | (75857) |  | (75857) |
| Shares issued in connection with business combinations | 1429 |  |  | 1429 |
| Stock-based compensation | 3231 |  |  | 3231 |
| Shares issued pursuant to equity based plans, net of shares withheld for taxes | 3156 |  |  | 3156 |
| Issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs | 90554 |  |  | 90554 |
| Balance at December 31, 2024 | 989346 | 402925 | (6900) | 1385371 |
| Comprehensive income |  | 113319 | 2153 | 115472 |
| Dividends on common stock, $1.96 per share |  | (80421) |  | (80421) |
| Stock-based compensation | 4122 |  |  | 4122 |
| Shares issued pursuant to equity based plans, net of shares withheld for taxes | 2730 |  |  | 2730 |
| Issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs | 47802 |  |  | 47802 |
| Balance at December 31, 2025 | $1044000 | $435823 | $(4747) | $1475076 |

---

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

------

**NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY**

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | Year Ended December 31, | Year Ended December 31, | Year Ended December 31, |
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Operating activities: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net income | $113319 | $78871 | $93868 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operations: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Depreciation | 165506 | 137898 | 125581 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amortization | 24239 | 20162 | 17641 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deferred income taxes | 35473 | 11366 | 8966 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Qualified defined benefit pension plan expense (benefit) | 10357 | 4062 | (2430) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Contributions to qualified defined benefit pension plans | (11310) | (20460) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deferred environmental expenditures, net | (25697) | (23307) | (26052) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Environmental remediation expense | 14623 | 14054 | 12899 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Asset optimization revenue sharing bill credits | (15549) | (28874) | (10471) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Regulatory disallowance of line extension allowances |  | 13700 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other | 12670 | 10799 | 8548 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Changes in assets and liabilities: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Receivables, net | 8170 | (15302) | 50977 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Inventories | (29195) | (2735) | (24105) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Income and other taxes | (5873) | 809 | (1246) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Accounts payable | 10115 | (14144) | (39958) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deferred gas costs | (34201) | 38129 | 52371 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Asset optimization revenue sharing | 24343 | 14539 | 22637 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Decoupling mechanism | (26939) | 5173 | (11415) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cloud-based software | (10381) | (22393) | (16307) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Regulatory accounts | 6575 | 12292 | 4617 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;RNG facility prepayment |  | (51427) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other, net | 2879 | 17070 | 13828 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash provided by operating activities | 269124 | 200282 | 279949 |
| Investing activities: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Capital expenditures | (466893) | (394400) | (327347) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Acquisitions, net of cash acquired | (338131) | (29816) | (7533) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Purchase of equity method investment | (1000) | (1000) | (1000) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other | (2878) | (3770) | 383 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash used in investing activities | (808902) | (428986) | (335497) |

---

------

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | Year Ended December 31, | Year Ended December 31, | Year Ended December 31, |
| | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Financing activities: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds from common stock issued, net | 47418 | 90374 | 66495 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Long-term debt issued | 760000 | 285000 | 330000 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Long-term debt retired | (183127) | (150000) | (90000) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Changes in other short-term debt, net | (3121) | 80330 | (168540) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash dividend payments on common stock | (77309) | (72852) | (67340) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Payment of financing fees | (9192) | (3290) | (2200) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Shares withheld for tax purposes | (1599) | (1319) | (1313) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other | (197) | (1181) | (2894) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash provided by financing activities | 532873 | 227062 | 64208 |
| (Decrease) increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash | (6905) | (1642) | 8660 |
| Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period | 47982 | 49624 | 40964 |
| Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period | $41077 | $47982 | $49624 |
| Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interest paid, net of capitalization | $111257 | $71233 | $80197 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Income taxes paid, net of refunds: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;U.S. federal taxes | $5599 | $10055 | $14300 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;State and local taxes |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Oregon | 5500 | 9000 | 9800 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other states | 311 | 339 | 163 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Income taxes paid, net of refunds | $11410 | $19394 | $24263 |
| Non-cash activities: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Shares issued in connection with business combinations | $— | $1429 | $12884 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Debt assumed in connection with business combinations | 156117 |  | 3131 |

---

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

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**NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY**

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | Year Ended December 31, | Year Ended December 31, | Year Ended December 31, |
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Operating revenues | $1125113 | $1100497 | $1158623 |
| Operating expenses: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cost of gas | 356126 | 412320 | 500061 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operations and maintenance | 268242 | 256995 | 244669 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Environmental remediation | 14623 | 14054 | 12899 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;General taxes | 48785 | 46953 | 44980 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Revenue taxes | 45887 | 48037 | 48432 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Depreciation | 149119 | 129602 | 119514 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other operating expenses | 2548 | 2809 | 2423 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total operating expenses | 885330 | 910770 | 972978 |
| Income from operations | 239783 | 189727 | 185645 |
| Other income (expense), net | (6341) | (2818) | 15358 |
| Interest expense, net | 61898 | 63273 | 60594 |
| Income before income taxes | 171544 | 123636 | 140409 |
| Income tax expense | 47322 | 34618 | 35672 |
| Net income | 124222 | 89018 | 104737 |
| Other comprehensive income (loss): |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Change in employee benefit plan liability, net of taxes of $(241) for 2025, $40 for 2024, and $443 for 2023 | 670 | (399) | (1233) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amortization of non-qualified employee benefit plan liability, net of taxes of $(526) for 2025, $(210) for 2024, and $(148) for 2023 | 1677 | 584 | 410 |
| Comprehensive income | $126569 | $89203 | $103914 |

---

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

------

**NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY**

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | As of December 31, | As of December 31, |
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 |
| Assets: |  |  |
| Current assets: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash and cash equivalents | $29347 | $19961 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Accounts receivable | 102165 | 119976 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Accrued unbilled revenue | 86600 | 91508 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Receivables from affiliates | 997 | 591 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Allowance for uncollectible accounts | (3048) | (2788) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Regulatory assets | 143135 | 130091 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Derivative instruments | 3922 | 6563 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Inventories | 119319 | 105031 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other current assets | 61024 | 53781 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total current assets | 543461 | 524714 |
| Non-current assets: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Property, plant, and equipment | 5000329 | 4706719 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Less: Accumulated depreciation | 1256289 | 1222413 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total property, plant, and equipment, net | 3744040 | 3484306 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Regulatory assets | 419847 | 381682 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Derivative instruments | 366 | 394 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other investments | 61049 | 63938 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operating lease right of use asset, net | 65650 | 68115 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Assets under sales-type leases | 121470 | 125653 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other non-current assets | 93235 | 107493 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total non-current assets | 4505657 | 4231581 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total assets | $5049118 | $4756295 |

---

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

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**NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY**

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | As of December 31, | As of December 31, |
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 |
| Liabilities and equity: |  |  |
| Current liabilities: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Short-term debt | $9990 | $136510 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Current maturities of long-term debt | 54948 | 29992 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Accounts payable | 138931 | 125359 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Payables to affiliates | 2354 | 3487 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Taxes accrued | 15682 | 15759 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interest accrued | 15399 | 15018 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Regulatory liabilities | 137908 | 116047 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Derivative instruments | 63578 | 75272 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operating lease liabilities | 2515 | 1653 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other current liabilities | 75667 | 85723 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total current liabilities | 516972 | 604820 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Long-term debt | 1479942 | 1335407 |
| Deferred credits and other non-current liabilities: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deferred tax liabilities | 426093 | 382686 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Regulatory liabilities | 748846 | 729172 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pension and other postretirement benefit liabilities | 112139 | 130397 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Derivative instruments | 14039 | 13307 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operating lease liabilities | 73097 | 75591 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other non-current liabilities | 169746 | 160865 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total deferred credits and other non-current liabilities | 1543960 | 1492018 |
| Commitments and contingencies (see Note 16 and Note 17) |  |  |
| Equity: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Common stock | 854903 | 719903 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Retained earnings | 658046 | 611199 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Accumulated other comprehensive loss | (4705) | (7052) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total equity | 1508244 | 1324050 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total liabilities and equity | $5049118 | $4756295 |

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See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

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**NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY**

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDER'S EQUITY

---

| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | Common Stock | Retained Earnings | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | Total<br>Equity |
| *In thousands* | Common Stock | Retained Earnings | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | Total<br>Equity |
| Balance at December 31, 2022 | $614903 | $582593 | $(6414) | $1191082 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Comprehensive income (loss) |  | 104737 | (823) | 103914 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dividends on common stock |  | (92376) |  | (92376) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Capital contribution from parent | 30000 |  |  | 30000 |
| Balance at December 31, 2023 | 644903 | 594954 | (7237) | 1232620 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Comprehensive income |  | 89018 | 185 | 89203 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dividends on common stock |  | (72773) |  | (72773) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Capital contributions from parent | 75000 |  |  | 75000 |
| Balance at December 31, 2024 | 719903 | 611199 | (7052) | 1324050 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Comprehensive income |  | 124222 | 2347 | 126569 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dividends on common stock |  | (77375) |  | (77375) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Capital contributions from parent | 135000 |  |  | 135000 |
| Balance at December 31, 2025 | $854903 | $658046 | $(4705) | $1508244 |

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See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

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**NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY**

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | Year Ended December 31, | Year Ended December 31, | Year Ended December 31, |
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Operating activities: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net income | $124222 | $89018 | $104737 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operations: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Depreciation | 149119 | 129602 | 119514 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amortization | 22099 | 19692 | 17282 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deferred income taxes | 38027 | 7544 | 2855 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Qualified defined benefit pension plan expense (benefit) | 10357 | 4062 | (2430) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Contributions to qualified defined benefit pension plans | (11310) | (20460) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deferred environmental expenditures, net | (25697) | (23307) | (26052) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Environmental remediation expense | 14623 | 14054 | 12899 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Asset optimization revenue sharing bill credits | (15549) | (28874) | (10471) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Regulatory disallowance of line extension allowances |  | 13700 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other | 10377 | 9823 | 8276 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Changes in assets and liabilities: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Receivables, net | 19067 | (13374) | 51391 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Inventories | (25443) | (2327) | (23884) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Income and other taxes | (3303) | (11204) | 4124 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Accounts payable | 5328 | (20687) | (43531) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deferred gas costs | (34201) | 38129 | 52371 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Asset optimization revenue sharing | 24343 | 14539 | 22637 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Decoupling mechanism | (26939) | 5173 | (11415) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cloud-based software | (10382) | (22392) | (16307) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Regulatory accounts | 5961 | 12921 | 4645 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other, net | (5549) | 15109 | 15227 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash provided by operating activities | 265150 | 230741 | 281868 |
| Investing activities: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Capital expenditures | (355066) | (353906) | (290845) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other | (2430) | (3725) | 384 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash used in investing activities | (357496) | (357631) | (290461) |
| Financing activities: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Long-term debt issued | 200000 |  | 330000 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Long-term debt retired | (30000) |  | (90000) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Changes in other short-term debt, net | (126520) | 119730 | (153420) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash contributions received from parent | 135000 | 75000 | 30000 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash dividend payments on common stock | (77375) | (72773) | (92376) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Payment of financing fees | (2546) | (311) | (2080) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Shares withheld for tax purposes | (1599) | (1319) | (1313) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other | (316) | (529) | (369) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash provided by financing activities | 96644 | 119798 | 20442 |
| (Decrease) increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash | 4298 | (7092) | 11849 |
| Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period | 29428 | 36520 | 24671 |
| Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period | $33726 | $29428 | $36520 |

---

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interest paid, net of capitalization | $56652 | $56989 | $64054 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Income taxes paid, net of refunds: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;U.S. federal taxes | $3992 | $22564 | $16846 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;State and local taxes |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Oregon | 6826 | 15005 | 10899 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other states | 262 | 1151 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Income taxes paid, net of refunds | $11080 | $38720 | $27745 |

---

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

***1. ORGANIZATION AND PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION***

The accompanying consolidated financial statements represent the respective, consolidated financial results of Northwest Natural Holding Company (NW Holdings) and Northwest Natural Gas Company (NW Natural) and all respective companies that each registrant directly or indirectly controls, either through majority ownership or otherwise. This is a combined report of NW Holdings and NW Natural, which includes separate consolidated financial statements for each registrant.

NW Natural's regulated natural gas distribution activities are reported in the NWN Gas Utility reportable segment, which was previously referred to as the natural gas distribution (NGD) segment prior to 2025. The NWN Gas Utility segment serves residential, commercial, and industrial customers in Oregon and southwest Washington. SiEnergy Operating, LLC (SiEnergy Gas Utility or SiEnergy), which was acquired January 7, 2025, owns SiEnergy Gas, LLC, which is a regulated natural gas distribution utility and serves residential and commercial customers in the greater metropolitan areas of Houston, Dallas, and Austin, Texas. SiEnergy also serves several transmission customers in Dallas and Austin, Texas. SiEnergy activities are reported in the SiEnergy Gas Utility reportable segment. NW Natural Water Company, LLC (NWN Water Utility or NWN Water) activities are reported in the NWN Water Utility reportable segment, which provides water distribution and wastewater services to communities throughout the Pacific Northwest, Texas, Arizona, and California. NW Holdings and NW Natural also have investments and business activities not specifically related to the NWN Gas Utility, SiEnergy Gas Utility and NWN Water Utility segments, which are aggregated and reported as NW Holdings Other and NW Natural Other.

NW Holdings and NW Natural consolidate all entities in which they have a controlling financial interest. Investments in corporate joint ventures and partnerships that NW Holdings does not directly or indirectly control, and for which it is not the primary beneficiary, include NNG Financial's investment in Kelso-Beaver Pipeline and NWN Water's investment in Avion Water Company, Inc., which are accounted for under the equity method. See Note 13 for activity related to equity method investments. NW Holdings and its direct and indirect subsidiaries are collectively referred to herein as NW Holdings, and NW Natural and its direct and indirect subsidiaries are collectively referred to herein as NW Natural. The consolidated financial statements of NW Holdings and NW Natural are presented after elimination of all intercompany balances and transactions.

Notes to the consolidated financial statements reflect the activity for both NW Holdings and NW Natural for all periods presented, unless otherwise noted. NW Holdings and NW Natural historical segment reporting has been recast to reflect their current organizational structure. The recasting did not have a material effect on the consolidated financial statements of NW Holdings or NW Natural.

***2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES***

**<u>Use of Estimates</u>** 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (U.S. GAAP) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual amounts could differ from those estimates, and changes would most likely be reported in future periods. Management believes the estimates and assumptions used are reasonable.

**<u>Industry Regulation</u>** 

NW Holdings' principal business is to operate as a holding company for NW Natural, SiEnergy, NWN Water and its other subsidiaries. NW Natural's principal business is the distribution of natural gas, which is regulated by the OPUC and WUTC. NW Natural also has natural gas storage services, which are regulated by the FERC, and to a certain extent by the OPUC and WUTC. SiEnergy's principal business is the distribution of natural gas in Texas; primarily in the Houston, Dallas and Austin metropolitan areas. SiEnergy also includes a natural gas transmission utility serving customers in the greater metropolitan areas of Dallas and Austin, Texas. SiEnergy's natural gas utilities are subject to regulation by the Railroad Commission of Texas and the cities in which it provides service. NWN Water's principal business is water and wastewater utility services. NWN Water's subsidiaries own water businesses, which are regulated by the public utility commission in the state in which the water utility is located, which is currently Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Texas and Arizona. Wastewater businesses, to the extent they are regulated, are generally regulated by the public utility commissions in the state in which the wastewater utility is located, which is currently Texas and Arizona. Accounting records and practices of the regulated businesses conform to the requirements and uniform system of accounts prescribed by these regulatory authorities in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The businesses in which customer rates are regulated have approved cost-based rates which are intended to allow such businesses to earn a reasonable return on invested capital.

In applying regulatory accounting principles, NW Holdings and NW Natural capitalize or defer certain costs and revenues as regulatory assets and liabilities pursuant to orders of the applicable state public utility commission, which provide for the recovery of revenues or expenses from, or refunds to, utility customers in future periods, including a return or a carrying charge in certain cases.

------

Amounts deferred as regulatory assets and liabilities for NW Holdings and NW Natural were as follows:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | Regulatory Assets | Regulatory Assets |
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 |
| **NW Natural:** |  |  |
| Current: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Unrealized loss on derivatives<sup>(1)</sup> | $63578 | $75272 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gas costs | 6284 | 5340 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Environmental costs<sup>(2)</sup> | 12148 | 10746 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Decoupling<sup>(3)</sup> | 11631 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Pension balancing<sup>(4)</sup> | 7131 | 7131 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Income taxes | 2208 | 2208 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Washington Climate Commitment Act compliance | 7482 | 7778 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Security and systems improvements | 1771 | 2711 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Industrial demand side management<sup>(5)</sup> | 10539 | 8551 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Other<sup>(6)</sup> | 20363 | 10354 |
| Total current - NW Natural | 143135 | 130091 |
| **Other (NW Holdings)** | 610 | 25 |
| Total current - NW Holdings | $143745 | $130116 |
| **NW Natural:** |  |  |
| Non-current: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Unrealized loss on derivatives<sup>(1)</sup> | $14039 | $13307 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Pension balancing<sup>(4)</sup> | 15647 | 21681 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Income taxes | 9148 | 9560 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pension and other postretirement benefit liabilities | 96008 | 111236 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Environmental costs<sup>(2)</sup> | 180063 | 167086 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gas costs | 9434 | 1442 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Decoupling<sup>(3)</sup> | 8891 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Washington Climate Commitment Act compliance | 33085 | 22136 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Security and systems improvements | 8234 | 8531 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Industrial demand side management<sup>(5)</sup> | 9334 | 7390 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Other<sup>(6)</sup> | 35964 | 19313 |
| Total non-current - NW Natural | 419847 | 381682 |
| **Other (NW Holdings)** | 4347 | 817 |
| Total non-current - NW Holdings | $424194 | $382499 |

---

------

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | Regulatory Liabilities | Regulatory Liabilities |
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 |
| **NW Natural:** |  |  |
| Current: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gas costs | $34172 | $35947 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Unrealized gain on derivatives<sup>(1)</sup> | 3922 | 6563 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Decoupling<sup>(3)</sup> | 5181 | 8726 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Income taxes | 5406 | 4726 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Asset optimization revenue sharing | 25981 | 17500 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Washington Climate Commitment Act proceeds | 57441 | 36595 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Other<sup>(6)</sup> | 5805 | 5990 |
| Total current - NW Natural | 137908 | 116047 |
| **Other (NW Holdings)** | 66 | 133 |
| Total current - NW Holdings | $137974 | $116180 |
| **NW Natural:** |  |  |
| Non-current: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gas costs | $687 | $14220 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Unrealized gain on derivatives<sup>(1)</sup> | 366 | 394 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Decoupling<sup>(3)</sup> |  | 2872 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Income taxes<sup>(7)</sup> | 159176 | 164759 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Accrued asset removal costs<sup>(8)</sup> | 561594 | 526526 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Asset optimization revenue sharing | 2386 | 2073 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Other<sup>(6)</sup> | 24637 | 18328 |
| Total non-current - NW Natural | 748846 | 729172 |
| **Other (NW Holdings)** | 9561 | 945 |
| Total non-current - NW Holdings | $758407 | $730117 |

---

<sup>(1)</sup> Unrealized gains or losses on derivatives are non-cash items and therefore do not earn a rate of return or a carrying charge. These amounts are recoverable through NWN Gas Utility rates as part of the annual Purchased Gas Adjustment (PGA) mechanism when realized at settlement.

<sup>(2)</sup> Refer to the Environmental Cost Deferral and Recovery table in Note 17 for a description of environmental costs.

<sup>(3)</sup> This deferral represents the margin adjustment resulting from differences between actual and expected volumes.

<sup>(4)</sup> Balance represents deferred net periodic benefit costs as approved by the OPUC.

<sup>(5)</sup> Energy efficiency program for industrial sales customers in Oregon to provide assistance with reducing their gas usage.

<sup>(6)</sup> Balances consist of deferrals and amortizations under approved regulatory mechanisms and typically earn a rate of return or carrying charge.

<sup>(7)</sup> Balance represents excess deferred income tax benefits subject to regulatory flow-through. See Note 11.

<sup>(8)</sup> Estimated costs of removal on certain regulated properties are collected through rates. See "Accounting Policies—*Plant, Property, and Accrued Asset Removal Costs*" below. <sup>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>

The amortization period for NW Natural and NW Holdings' regulatory assets and liabilities ranges from less than one year to an indeterminable period. Regulatory deferrals for gas costs payable are generally amortized over 12 months beginning each November 1 following the gas contract year during which the deferred gas costs are recorded. Similarly, most other regulatory deferred accounts are amortized over 12 months. However, certain regulatory account balances, such as income taxes, environmental costs, pension liabilities, and accrued asset removal costs, are large and tend to be amortized over longer periods once NW Natural has agreed upon an amortization period with the respective regulatory agency.

We believe all costs incurred and deferred at December 31, 2025 are prudent. All regulatory assets are reviewed annually for recoverability, or more often if circumstances warrant. If we should determine that all or a portion of these regulatory assets no longer meet the criteria for continued application of regulatory accounting, then NW Holdings and NW Natural would be required to write-off the net unrecoverable balances in the period such determination is made.

Regulatory interest income of $6.2 million and $5.4 million and regulatory interest expense of $4.3 million and $4.0 million was recognized within other income (expense), net for the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.

<u>Environmental Regulatory Accounting</u> 

See Note 17 for information about the SRRM and OPUC orders regarding implementation.

------

**<u>New Accounting Standards</u>**

NW Holdings and NW Natural consider the applicability and impact of all accounting standards updates (ASUs) issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB). ASUs not listed below were assessed and determined to be either not applicable or are expected to have minimal impact on consolidated financial position or results of operations.

<u>Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements</u>

**JOINT VENTURE FORMATIONS.** In August 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-05, which requires a joint venture to initially measure all contributions received upon its formation at fair value. We adopted the standard in January 2025. The adoption of this standard did not have an impact on our results of operations, liquidity or capital resources.

**SEGMENT REPORTING.** In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, which requires additional disclosures about significant segment expenses. The disclosures were required beginning with the annual report for the year ending December 31, 2024. The adoption of this standard did not have an impact on our results of operations, liquidity or capital resources. See Note 4.

**IMPROVEMENTS TO INCOME TAX DISCLOSURES.** In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, which requires additional disclosures about income taxes. The disclosures are required beginning with this annual report for the year ending December 31, 2025. The adoption of this standard did not have an impact on our results of operations, liquidity or capital resources.

**DISAGGREGATION OF EXPENSE DISCLOSURES.** In November 2024, the FASB issued ASU 2024-03, which requires additional disclosures of disaggregated income statement expenses. The disclosures are required beginning with our annual report for the year ending December 31, 2027. The FASB issued ASU 2025-01 on January 6, 2025, to amend the effective date language of ASU 2024-03 clarifying that all public business entities are required to adopt the guidance in annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2026, and interim periods within annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2027. ASU 2025-01 did not impact the effective date of ASU 2024-03 for NW Holdings and NW Natural. The adoption of this standard is not anticipated to have an impact on our results of operations, liquidity, or capital resources.

**FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS-CREDIT LOSSES.** In July 2025, the FASB issued ASU 2025-05, which simplifies how entities estimate credit losses on current accounts receivable and current contract assets arising from revenue transactions under ASC 606. It introduces a practical expedient that allows all entities to assume that economic conditions at the balance sheet date remain unchanged for the life of the asset, eliminating the need for forward-looking forecasts. This ASU is applicable only to current receivables and contract assets (typically due within one year) and is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2025. The adoption of this standard is not anticipated to have a material impact on our results of operations, liquidity or capital resources.

**IMPROVEMENTS TO INTANGIBLE ASSET ACCOUNTING AND DISCLOSURES**. In September 2025, the FASB issued ASU 2025-06, Intangibles—Goodwill and Other—Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40): Targeted Improvements to the Accounting for Internal-Use Software ("ASU 2025-06"). This ASU modernizes the accounting for software costs to adapt to an incremental and iterative software development method. ASU 2025-06 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2027, and may be applied using a prospective, modified prospective or retrospective transition approach. The adoption of this standard is not anticipated to have a material impact on our results of operations, liquidity or capital resources.

**INTERIM REPORTING.** In December 2025, the FASB issued ASU 2025-11, which improves the guidance in Topic 270, Interim Reporting, by clarifying the current disclosure requirements for interim periods. The ASU adds to Topic 270 a principle that requires entities to disclose events since the end of the last annual reporting period that have a material impact on the entity. ASU 2025-11 is effective for interim reporting periods within annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2027. The adoption of this standard is not anticipated to have an impact on our results of operations, liquidity, or capital resources.

**CODIFICATION IMPROVEMENTS**. In December 2025, the FASB issued ASU 2025-12, which makes changes to the Codification that clarify, correct errors, or make minor improvements. The amendments make the Codification easier to understand and apply. The amendments in this Update are varied in nature and may affect the application of guidance in cases in which the original guidance may have been unclear. ASU 2025-12 is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2026, and interim reporting periods within those annual reporting periods. The adoption of this standard is not anticipated to have an impact on our results of operations, liquidity, or capital resources.

**<u>Accounting Policies</u>**

The accounting policies discussed below apply to both NW Holdings and NW Natural.

<u>Plant, Property, and Accrued Asset Removal Costs</u> 

Plant and property are stated at cost, including capitalized labor, materials, and overhead. In accordance with regulatory accounting standards, the cost of acquiring and constructing long-lived plant and property generally includes an allowance for funds used during construction (AFUDC) or capitalized interest. AFUDC represents the regulatory financing cost incurred when debt and equity funds are used for construction (see "*AFUDC*" below). When constructed assets are subject to market-based rates rather than cost-based rates, the financing costs incurred during construction are included in capitalized interest in accordance with U.S. GAAP, not as regulatory financing costs under AFUDC.

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In accordance with long-standing regulatory treatment, our depreciation rates consist of three components: one based on the average service life of the asset, a second based on the estimated salvage value of the asset, and a third based on the asset's estimated cost of removal. We collect, through rates, the estimated cost of removal on certain regulated properties through depreciation expense, with a corresponding offset to accumulated depreciation. These removal costs are non-legal obligations as defined by regulatory accounting guidance. Therefore, we have included these costs as non-current regulatory liabilities rather than as accumulated depreciation on our consolidated balance sheets. In the rate setting process, the liability for removal costs is treated as a reduction to the net rate base on which our regulated segments have the opportunity to earn its allowed rate of return.

The costs of NWN Gas Utility, SiEnergy Gas Utility, or regulated NWN Water plant retired or otherwise disposed of are removed from plant and charged to accumulated depreciation for recovery or refund through future rates. Gains from the sale of regulated assets are generally deferred and refunded to customers. For assets not related to our regulated operations, we record a gain or loss upon the disposal of the property, and the gain or loss is recorded in operating income or loss in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.

The provision for depreciation of NWN Gas Utility property, plant, and equipment is recorded under the group method on a straight-line basis with rates computed in accordance with depreciation studies approved by regulatory authorities. The weighted-average depreciation rate for NWN Gas Utility assets in service was approximately 3.1% for 2025, and 2.9% for 2024 and 3.0 for 2023, reflecting the approximate weighted-average economic life of the property. This includes 2025 weighted-average depreciation rates for the following asset categories: 2.7% for transmission and distribution plant, 2.5% for gas storage facilities, 4.5% for general plant, and 7.1% for intangible and other fixed assets.

**AFUDC.** Certain additions to NWN Gas Utility, SiEnergy and NWN Water plant include AFUDC, which represents the net cost of debt and equity funds used during construction. AFUDC is calculated using actual interest rates for debt and authorized rates for ROE, if applicable. If the average short-term debt balances are less than the average balance of construction work in progress, then a composite AFUDC rate is used to represent interest on all debt funds, shown as a reduction to interest charges, and on ROE funds, shown as other income. While cash is not immediately recognized from recording AFUDC, it is realized in future years through rate recovery resulting from the higher cost of service. Our NWN Gas Utility composite AFUDC rate was 6.8% in 2025, 6.4% in 2024, and 7.5% in 2023.

**IMPAIRMENT OF LONG-LIVED ASSETS.** We review the carrying value of long-lived assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. Factors that would necessitate an impairment assessment of long-lived assets include a significant adverse change in the extent or manner in which the asset is used, a significant adverse change in legal factors or business climate that could affect the value of the asset, or a significant decline in the observable market value or expected future cash flows of the asset, among others.

When such factors are present, we assess the recoverability by determining whether the carrying value of the asset will be recovered through expected future cash flows. An asset is determined to be impaired when the carrying value of the asset exceeds the expected undiscounted future cash flows from the use and eventual disposition of the asset. If an impairment is indicated, we record an impairment loss for the difference between the carrying value and the fair value of the long-lived assets. Fair value is estimated using appropriate valuation methodologies, which may include an estimate of discounted cash flows.

<u>Cash and Cash Equivalents</u> 

Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand plus highly liquid investment accounts with original maturity dates of three months or less. These investments are readily convertible to cash with fair value approximating cost.

At December 31, 2025, NW Holdings had outstanding checks of $0.3 million, substantially all of which is recorded at NW Natural, and at December 31, 2024, NW Holdings had $3.9 million of outstanding checks. These balances are included in accounts payable in the NW Holdings and NW Natural balance sheets.

<u>Restricted Cash</u>

Restricted cash is primarily comprised of funds from public purpose charges for programs that assist low-income customers with bill payments or energy efficiency. These balances are included in other current assets in the NW Holdings and NW Natural balance sheets.

The following table provides a reconciliation of the cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash balances at NW Holdings as of December 31, 2025 and 2024:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | December 31, | December 31, |
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 |
| Cash and cash equivalents | $36673 | $38490 |
| Restricted cash included in other current assets | 4404 | 9492 |
| Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash | $41077 | $47982 |

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The following table provides a reconciliation of the cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash balances at NW Natural as of December 31, 2025 and 2024:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | December 31, | December 31, |
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 |
| Cash and cash equivalents | $29347 | $19961 |
| Restricted cash included in other current assets | 4379 | 9467 |
| Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash | $33726 | $29428 |

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<u>Revenue Recognition and Accrued Unbilled Revenue</u>

Revenues, derived primarily from the sale and transportation of natural gas, are recognized upon delivery of gas or water, or service to customers. Revenues include accruals for gas or water delivered but not yet billed to customers based on estimates of deliveries from meter reading dates to month end (accrued unbilled revenue). Accrued unbilled revenue is dependent upon a number of factors that require management's judgment, including total natural gas receipts and deliveries, customer use of natural gas or water by billing cycle, and weather factors. Accrued unbilled revenue is reversed the following month when actual billings occur. NW Holdings' accrued unbilled revenue at December 31, 2025 and 2024 was $97.2 million and $94.4 million, respectively, which is primarily accrued unbilled revenue at NW Natural.

Revenues not related to NWN Gas Utility, SiEnergy Gas Utility, and NWN Water Utility are derived primarily from Interstate Storage Services, asset management activities at the Mist gas storage facility, and other investments and business activities. At the Mist underground storage facility, revenues are primarily firm service revenues in the form of fixed monthly reservation charges. In addition, we also have asset management service revenue from an independent energy marketing company that optimizes commodity, storage, and pipeline capacity release transactions. Under this agreement, guaranteed asset management revenue is recognized using a straight-line, pro-rata methodology over the term of each contract. Revenues earned above the guaranteed amount are recognized as they are earned.

<u>Revenue Taxes</u> 

Revenue-based taxes are primarily franchise taxes, which are collected from customers and remitted to taxing authorities. Revenue taxes are included in operating expenses in the statements of comprehensive income for NW Holdings and NW Natural. Revenue taxes at NW Holdings were $48.2 million, $48.3 million, and $48.7 million for 2025, 2024, and 2023, respectively, and are primarily from NW Natural.

<u>Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Uncollectible Accounts</u> 

NW Holdings receivable balances primarily consist of trade receivables for the sale of natural gas and natural gas transportation services from NW Natural and SiEnergy and water sales and wastewater services from NWN Water. These businesses establish

an allowance for uncollectible accounts for trade receivables (allowance), including accrued unbilled revenue, based on the age of receivable balances, collection experience of past due account balances and payment plans, and historical trends of write-offs. Differences between the estimated allowance and actual write-offs will occur based on a number of factors, including changes in economic conditions, customer creditworthiness, and natural gas prices. The allowance is adjusted quarterly, as necessary, based on information currently available.

NW Natural's allowance for residential and commercial trade receivables utilizes a method of assessing historical write-off trends and current information on delinquent accounts. For industrial accounts, we continue to assess the provision on an account-by-account basis with specific reserves taken as necessary. NW Natural will continue to closely monitor and evaluate our accounts receivable and the provision for uncollectible accounts.

NWN Water and SiEnergy follow methodologies that also review for historical write-off trends, the aging of the receivable balances, and collection experience. These businesses also monitor for impacts of economic conditions including the price of natural gas or water as appropriate, the economy and the impact on customers ability to pay.

**ALLOWANCE FOR TRADE RECEIVABLES.** The payment term of our NWN Gas Utility receivables is generally 15 days. For these short-term receivables, it is not expected that forecasted economic conditions would significantly affect the loss estimates under stable economic conditions. For extreme situations like a financial crisis, natural disaster, and the economic slowdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, we enhanced our review and analysis.

For the residential and commercial uncollectible provision, we primarily followed our standard methodology, which includes assessing historical write-off trends and current information on delinquent accounts. Beginning October 1, 2022, new collection rules from the OPUC applied to residential and commercial customers. This included enhanced protections for low-income customers, a return to pre-pandemic time payment arrangements terms, revised disconnection rules during the heating season, and other items. For industrial accounts, we continue to assess the provision on an account-by-account basis with specific reserves taken as necessary. NW Natural will continue to closely monitor and evaluate our accounts receivable and the provision for uncollectible accounts.

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The following table presents the activity related to the NW Holdings provision for uncollectible accounts by pool:

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | As of December 31, 2024 | | | As of December 31, 2025 |
| | As of December 31, 2024 | Year ended December 31, 2025 | Year ended December 31, 2025 | As of December 31, 2025 |
| *In thousands* | Beginning Balance | Provision recorded, net of adjustments | Write-offs recognized, net of recoveries | Ending Balance |
| Allowance for uncollectible accounts: |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Residential | $2124 | $1353 | $(1197) | $2280 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Commercial | 136 | 716 | (478) | 374 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Industrial | 20 | 31 | (5) | 46 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Accrued unbilled and other | 508 | 213 | (373) | 348 |
| Total NW Natural | 2788 | 2313 | (2053) | 3048 |
| Other - NW Holdings | 686 | 1194 | (860) | 1020 |
| Total NW Holdings | $3474 | $3507 | $(2913) | $4068 |

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**ALLOWANCE FOR NET INVESTMENTS IN SALES-TYPE LEASES.** NW Natural currently holds two net investments in sales-type leases, with substantially all of the net investment balance related to the North Mist natural gas storage agreement with Portland General Electric (PGE) which is billed under an OPUC-approved rate schedule. See Note 7 for more information on the North Mist lease. Due to the nature of this service, PGE may recover the costs of the lease through general rate cases. Therefore, we expect the risk of loss due to the credit of this lessee to be remote. As such, no allowance for uncollectibility was recorded for our sales-type lease receivables. NW Natural will continue monitoring the credit health of the lessees and the overall economic environment, including the economic factors closely tied to the financial health of our current and future lessees.

<u>Inventories</u> 

NWN Gas Utility gas inventories, which consist of natural gas in storage for NWN Gas Utility customers, are stated at the lower of weighted-average cost or net realizable value. The regulatory treatment of these inventories provides for cost recovery in customer rates. NWN Gas Utility gas inventories injected into storage are priced in inventory based on actual purchase costs, and those withdrawn from storage are charged to cost of gas during the period they are withdrawn at the weighted-average inventory cost.

Gas storage inventories mainly consist of natural gas received as fuel-in-kind from storage customers. Gas storage inventories are valued at the lower of average cost or net realizable value. Cushion gas is not included in inventory balances, is recorded at original cost, and is classified as a long-term plant asset.

Materials and supplies inventories consist of inventories at NWN Gas, SiEnergy, and NWN Water and are stated at the lower of average cost or net realizable value.

NW Holdings' gas storage inventories totaled $33.9 million and $37.9 million at December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively, the majority of which is NW Natural. At December 31, 2025 and 2024, NW Holdings' materials and supplies inventories, which are comprised primarily of NW Natural's materials and supplies, totaled $29.7 million and $24.8 million, respectively.

During 2025 and 2024, NW Natural entered into certain agreements to purchase renewable thermal certificates (RTCs). RTCs are initially recorded at cost and subsequently assessed for impairment based on the lower-of-cost or market model. NW Natural's RTCs inventory totaled $0.8 million and $0.4 million at December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.

<u>Greenhouse Gas Allowances</u>

**WASHINGTON.** NW Natural is subject to greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction requirements under the Washington Climate Commitment Act (CCA) regulations. Under Washington's CCA, emission reduction compliance mechanisms include: 1) allowances distributed at no cost by the state, 2) purchasing allowances at state-run auctions or secondary markets, 3) purchasing carbon offsets, and 4) supplying alternative gaseous fuels, such as renewable natural gas and hydrogen.

NW Natural accounts for all purchased Washington allowances as inventory at the lower of cost or market. Any compliance instruments or allowances acquired through government allocations at no cost are accounted for as inventory at no cost. As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, NW Natural had $63.3 million and $43.9 million of emissions allowances for compliance in Washington recorded as inventory, respectively.

The CCA allows for the sale of compliance instruments or allowances, and as a result, should NW Natural sell these it will recognize revenue when title to the instrument or allowance is transferred to a counterparty, and NW Natural will recognize expense at the time of recognition of the related sale. During the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024 NW Natural consigned no-cost allowances to Washington auctions and received $17.9 million and $8.5 million, respectively, in cash, which proceeds were recorded as a regulatory liability for the benefit of customers.

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We measure the compliance obligation, which is based on emissions, at the carrying value of inventory held plus the fair value of any additional emission allowances NW Natural would need to purchase to satisfy the obligations. Under the Washington program, NW Natural recognized a liability of $40.6 million and $29.9 million as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. A portion of the costs to comply with the Washington program are currently being recovered from utility customers through rates beginning January 1, 2024. NW Natural recognized $40.6 million and $29.9 million of deferred costs as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.

**OREGON.** In November 2024, the Environmental Quality Commission adopted the Climate Protection Program (CPP). The CPP sets enforceable and declining limits, or caps, on GHG emissions from fossil fuels used throughout Oregon. The first compliance period started January 1, 2025 and covers emissions through the end of 2027.

<u>Gas Reserves</u>

Gas reserves are payments to acquire and produce natural gas reserves. Gas reserves are stated at cost, adjusted for regulatory amortization, with the associated deferred tax benefits recorded as liabilities on the balance sheet. The current portion is calculated based on expected gas deliveries within the next fiscal year. NW Natural recognizes regulatory amortization of this asset on a volumetric basis calculated using the estimated gas reserves and the estimated therms extracted and sold each month. The amortization of gas reserves is recorded to cost of gas along with gas production revenues and production costs. See Note 13.

<u>Derivatives</u> 

NW Natural's derivatives are measured at fair value and recognized as either assets or liabilities on the balance sheet. Changes in the fair value of the derivatives are recognized in earnings unless specific regulatory or hedge accounting criteria are met. Accounting for derivatives and hedges provides an exception for contracts intended for normal purchases and normal sales for which physical delivery is probable. In addition, certain derivative contracts are approved by regulatory authorities for recovery or refund through customer rates. Accordingly, the changes in fair value of these approved contracts are deferred as regulatory assets or liabilities pursuant to regulatory accounting principles. NW Natural's financial derivatives generally qualify for deferral under regulatory accounting.

Derivative contracts entered into for NWN Gas Utility requirements after the annual PGA rate has been set and transacted during the PGA year are subject to the PGA incentive sharing mechanism. In Oregon, NW Natural participates in a PGA sharing mechanism under which it is required to select either an 80% or 90% deferral of higher or lower gas costs such that the impact on current earnings from the gas cost sharing is either 20% or 10% of gas cost differences compared to PGA prices, respectively. For each of the PGA years in Oregon beginning October 31, 2025, and November 1, 2024, and 2023, NW Natural selected the 90% deferral of gas cost differences. In Washington, 100% of the differences between the PGA prices and actual gas costs are deferred. See Note 15.

NW Holdings and NW Natural have financial derivative policies that set forth guidelines for using selected derivative products to support prudent risk management strategies within designated parameters. NW Natural's objective for using derivatives is to decrease the volatility of gas prices, interest rates, foreign currency, and cash flows without speculative risk. The use of derivatives is permitted only after the risk exposures have been identified, are determined to exceed acceptable tolerance levels, and are determined necessary to support normal business activities. NW Natural does not enter into derivative instruments for trading purposes. All commodity and foreign exchange derivatives are currently held at NW Natural, and an interest rate swap was held at NWN Water.

<u>Fair Value</u> 

In accordance with fair value accounting, we use the following fair value hierarchy for determining inputs for our debt, pension plan assets, and derivative fair value measurements:

• Level 1: Valuation is based on quoted prices for identical instruments traded in active markets;

• Level 2: Valuation is based on quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active, and model-based valuation techniques for which all significant assumptions are observable in the market; and

• Level 3: Valuation is generated from model-based techniques that use significant assumptions not observable in the market. These unobservable assumptions reflect our own estimates of assumptions market participants would use in valuing the asset or liability.

In addition, the fair value for certain pension trust investments is determined using Net Asset Value per share (NAV) as a practical expedient, and therefore they are not classified within the fair value hierarchy. These investments primarily consist of institutional commingled funds.

When developing fair value measurements, it is our policy to use quoted market prices whenever available or to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when quoted market prices are not available. Fair values are primarily developed using industry-standard models that consider various inputs including: (a) quoted future prices for commodities; (b) forward currency prices; (c) time value; (d) volatility factors; (e) current market and contractual prices for

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underlying instruments; (f) market interest rates and yield curves; (g) credit spreads; and (h) other relevant economic measures. NW Natural considers liquid points for natural gas hedging to be those points for which there are regularly published prices in a nationally recognized publication or where the instruments are traded on an exchange.

<u>Other Current Assets</u>

Other current assets consist of various items that are expected to be realized within the next twelve months and are not classified elsewhere on the balance sheet. Other current assets are comprised primarily of prepaid assets, restricted cash and gas reserves. As of December 31, 2025, NW Holdings and NW Natural had $57.9 million and $43.1 million of prepaid assets, respectively, and $2.6 million of gas reserves. As of December 31, 2024. NW Holdings and NW Natural had $43.4 million and $37.0 million of prepaid assets, respectively, and $2.7 million of gas reserves. See the Restricted Cash and Gas Reserves sections above for additional detail.

<u>Goodwill and Business Combinations</u>

NW Holdings, through its wholly-owned subsidiaries NWN Water and SiEnergy and their wholly-owned subsidiaries, has completed various acquisitions that resulted in the recognition of goodwill. Goodwill is measured as the excess of the acquisition-date fair value of the consideration transferred over the acquisition-date fair value of the net identifiable assets assumed. Adjustments are recorded during the measurement period to finalize the allocation of the purchase price. The carrying value of goodwill is reviewed annually during the fourth quarter, or whenever events or changes in circumstance indicate that such carrying values may not be recoverable. The goodwill assessment policy begins with a qualitative analysis in which events and circumstances are evaluated, including macroeconomic conditions, industry and market conditions, regulatory environments, and overall financial performance of the reporting unit. If the qualitative assessment indicates that the carrying value may be at risk of recoverability, a quantitative evaluation is performed to measure the carrying value of the goodwill against the fair value of the reporting unit. The reporting unit is determined primarily based on current operating segments and the level of review provided by the Chief Operating Decision Maker (CODM) and/or segment management on the operating segment's financial results. Reporting units are evaluated periodically for changes in the corporate environment.

Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method. The cost of an acquisition is measured as the aggregate of the consideration transferred, measured at fair value at the acquisition date, and the fair value of any non-controlling interest in the acquiree. Acquisition-related costs are expensed as incurred. When NW Holdings acquires a business, it assesses the financial assets acquired and liabilities assumed for appropriate classification and designation in accordance with the contractual terms, economic circumstances and pertinent conditions as of the acquisition date. When there is substantial judgment or uncertainty around the fair value of acquired assets, we may engage a third party expert to assist in determining the fair values of certain assets or liabilities.

<u>Income Taxes</u> 

We account for income taxes under the asset and liability method, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined on the basis of the differences between the financial statement and tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the enactment date period unless, for our regulated operations at NW Natural, SiEnergy, and NWN Water, a regulatory order specifies deferral of the effect of the change in tax rates over a longer period of time.

For our regulated operations, deferred income tax assets and liabilities are also recognized for temporary differences where the deferred income tax benefits or expenses have previously been flowed through in the ratemaking process of the regulated businesses. Regulatory tax assets and liabilities are recorded on these deferred tax assets and liabilities to the extent it is believed they will be recoverable from or refunded to customers in future rates.

Investment tax credits associated with rate regulated plant additions are deferred for financial statement purposes and amortized over the estimated useful lives of the related plant.

NW Holdings files consolidated or combined income tax returns that include NW Natural. Income tax expense is allocated on a separate company basis incorporating certain consolidated return considerations. Subsidiary income taxes payable or receivable are generally settled with NW Holdings, the common agent for income tax matters.

Interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits, if any, are recognized within income tax expense and accrued interest and penalties are recognized within the related tax liability line in the consolidated balance sheets. No accrued interest or penalties for uncertain tax benefits have been recorded. See Note 11.

<u>Environmental Contingencies</u> 

Loss contingencies are recorded as liabilities when it is probable a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss is reasonably estimable in accordance with accounting standards for contingencies. Estimating probable losses requires an analysis of uncertainties that often depend upon judgments about potential actions by third parties. Accruals for loss contingencies are recorded based on an analysis of potential results.

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With respect to environmental liabilities and related costs, estimates are developed based on a review of information available from numerous sources, including completed studies and site specific negotiations. NW Natural's policy is to accrue the full amount of such liability when information is sufficient to reasonably estimate the amount of probable liability. When information is not available to reasonably estimate the probable liability, or when only the range of probable liabilities can be estimated and no amount within the range is more likely than another, it is our policy to accrue at the low end of the range. Accordingly, due to numerous uncertainties surrounding the course of environmental remediation and the preliminary nature of several site investigations, in some cases, it may not be possible to reasonably estimate the high end of the range of possible loss. In those cases, the nature of the potential loss and the fact that the high end of the range cannot be reasonably estimated is disclosed. See Note 17.

<u>Unconsolidated Affiliates</u>

NWN Water has an equity interest in a business which we account for under the equity method as we do not exercise control of the major operating and financial policies. The business transactions with our equity method investment are not significant. We regularly assess the profitability and valuation of our investment for any potential impairment. See Note 13.

<u>Cloud Computing Arrangements</u>

For GAAP accounting purposes, implementation costs associated with its cloud computing arrangements are capitalized consistent with costs capitalized for internal-use software. Capitalized implementation costs are included in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets. The implementation costs are amortized over the term of the related hosting agreement, including renewal periods that are reasonably certain to be exercised. Amortization expense of implementation costs are recorded as operations and maintenance expenses in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. The implementation costs are included within operating activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows.

For regulatory accounting purposes, cloud-based software is reflected in rate base as property, plant and equipment and amortized over the expected useful life through depreciation expense. NW Natural is allowed recovery of and a return on cloud computing arrangements like other property, plant and equipment in rate base. The amount of cloud-based software capital expenditures for 2025 and 2024 was $8.5 million and $17.2 million, respectively. The amount of cloud computing amortization for 2025 and 2024 was $12.7 million and $10.7 million, respectively.

<u>Subsequent Events</u>

We monitor significant events occurring after the balance sheet date and prior to the issuance of the financial statements to determine the impacts, if any, of events on the financial statements to be issued.

***3. EARNINGS PER SHARE***

Basic earnings or loss per share are computed using NW Holdings' net income or loss and the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for each period presented. Diluted earnings per share are computed in the same manner, except using the weighted average number of common shares outstanding plus the effects of the assumed exercise of stock options and the payment of estimated stock awards from other stock-based compensation plans that are outstanding at the end of each period presented. Anti-dilutive stock awards are excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings or loss per common share.

NW Holdings' diluted earnings or loss per share are calculated as follows:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| *In thousands, except per share data* | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Net income | $113319 | $78871 | $93868 |
| Average common shares outstanding - basic | 40864 | 38809 | 36213 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Additional shares for stock-based compensation plans (See Note 8) | 89 | 60 | 52 |
| Average common shares outstanding - diluted | 40953 | 38869 | 36265 |
| Earnings per share of common stock: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Basic | $2.77 | $2.03 | $2.59 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Diluted | 2.77 | 2.03 | 2.59 |
| Additional information: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Anti-dilutive shares | 4 | 8 | 1 |

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***4. SEGMENT INFORMATION***

Prior to the first quarter of 2025, NW Holdings and NW Natural primarily operated in one reportable business segment, which was NW Natural's local gas distribution business, referred to as the NGD segment. NW Holdings and NW Natural also had investments and business activities not specifically related to the NGD segment, which were aggregated and reported as other.

During the first quarter of 2025, we evaluated the reportable business segments of NW Holdings and concluded that SiEnergy and NWN Water were also reportable business segments. In addition, the NGD segment was renamed to NWN Gas Utility. NW

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Holdings and NW Natural also have investments and business activities not specifically related to the NWN Gas Utility, SiEnergy, and NWN Water segments, which are aggregated and reported as NW Holdings Other. NW Holdings and NW Natural historical segment reporting has been recast to reflect their current organizational structure.

NW Holdings primarily operates in three reportable business segments, which are NWN Gas Utility, SiEnergy, and NWN Water. NW Natural primarily operates in one reportable business segment, which is NWN Gas Utility. NW Holdings and NW Natural also have investments and business activities not specifically related to the reportable business segments, which are aggregated and reported as other and described below for each entity.

No individual customer accounts for over 10% of NW Holdings' or NW Natural's operating revenues.

**<u>NWN Gas Utility</u>**

NW Natural's local gas distribution segment is a regulated utility servicing customers in Oregon and southwest Washington. In addition to NW Natural's local gas distribution business, the NWN Gas Utility segment also includes the portion of the Mist underground storage facility used to serve its customers, the North Mist gas storage operations in Oregon, NWN Gas Reserves, which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Energy Corp, and NW Natural RNG Holding Company, LLC, a holding company established to invest in the development and procurement of regulated renewable natural gas for NW Natural. NWN Gas Utility segment does not include Interstate Storage Services and third-party asset management services, and appliance retail center operations which are reported in NW Natural Other and included in NW Holdings Other.

**<u>SiEnergy Gas Utility</u>**

SiEnergy Gas Utility owns a regulated natural gas distribution utility, serving customers in the greater metropolitan areas of Houston, Dallas, and Austin, Texas. SiEnergy also includes a regulated natural gas transmission utility serving customers in the greater metropolitan areas of Dallas and Austin, Texas.

**<u>NWN Water Utility</u>**

NWN Water Utility is a regulated water and wastewater utility serving residential and commercial customers in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Texas, and Arizona. NWN Water also includes non-regulated wastewater utilities and water services businesses in Oregon, Washington and Idaho, and an equity method investment in Avion Water Company, Inc. (a regulated entity). In addition, NWN Water provides water services to communities throughout the Pacific Northwest and California.

**<u>NW Holdings Other</u>**

NW Holdings' activities in Other includes activities of NW Natural Renewables Holdings, LLC (NWN Renewables), which is engaged in non-regulated renewable natural gas activities; NNG Financial and its pipeline assets; and NWN Energy including its wholly-owned subsidiary NW Natural Gas Storage, LLC (NWN Gas Storage), which was formerly involved in a gas storage business. Other also includes corporate revenues and expenses that cannot be allocated to other operations, including certain business development activities. NW Holdings Other also includes NW Natural Other activities which includes activities in Interstate Storage Services and third-party asset management services, appliance retail center operations, and corporate operating and non-operating revenues and expenses that cannot be allocated to NWN Gas Utility operations.

**<u>Segment Information Summary</u>**

Inter-segment transactions were immaterial for the periods presented. Total assets by segment is not regularly provided to the Chief Operating Decision Maker (CODM) and is therefore omitted. The following tables presents summary financial information concerning the reportable segments and other:

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| *In thousands* | NWN Gas Utility | SiEnergy Gas Utility<sup>(1)</sup> | NWN Water Utility | NW Holdings Other | NW Holdings |
| **2025** |  |  |  |  |  |
| Operating revenues | $1096785 | $65984 | $65646 | $60948 | $1289363 |
| Depreciation | 147882 | 7873 | 8514 | 1237 | 165506 |
| Income from operations<sup>(2)</sup> | 219949 | 26558 | 18906 | 15478 | 280891 |
| Interest expense, net | 61440 | 9608 | 3048 | 48417 | 122513 |
| Income tax expense (benefit) | 41952 | 3870 | 3511 | (7974) | 41359 |
| Capital expenditures | 339948 | 67650 | 43917 | 15378 | 466893 |
| **2024** |  |  |  |  |  |
| Operating revenues | $1075688 | $— | $52036 | $25270 | $1152994 |
| Depreciation | 128524 |  | 8296 | 1078 | 137898 |
| Income from operations<sup>(2)</sup> | 173222 |  | 9935 | 7985 | 191142 |
| Interest expense, net | 62868 |  | 3815 | 13409 | 80092 |
| Income tax expense (benefit) | 30195 |  | 2069 | (1193) | 31071 |
| Capital expenditures | 348913 |  | 39988 | 5499 | 394400 |
| **2023** |  |  |  |  |  |
| Operating revenues | $1136400 | $— | $38852 | $22223 | $1197475 |
| Depreciation | 118417 |  | 6067 | 1097 | 125581 |
| Income from operations<sup>(2)</sup> | 170591 |  | 6569 | 7781 | 184941 |
| Interest expense, net | 60020 |  | 5965 | 10581 | 76566 |
| Income tax expense | 31688 |  | 450 | 224 | 32362 |
| Capital expenditures | 285998 |  | 36686 | 4663 | 327347 |

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<sup>(1)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>Prior year comparatives are not provided for SiEnergy as it was acquired by NW Holdings on January 7, 2025.

<sup>(2)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>Income (loss) from operations is not a financial measure used by the CODM for NWN Gas Utility or SiEnergy Gas Utility, but is included in the table above to enable the reconciliation of NWN Gas Utility and SiEnergy Gas Utility margin to consolidated income before taxes in accordance with ASU 2023-07.

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| *In thousands* | NWN Gas Utility | NW Natural Other | NW Natural |
| **2025** |  |  |  |
| Operating revenues | $1096785 | $28328 | $1125113 |
| Depreciation | 147882 | 1237 | 149119 |
| Income from operations<sup>(1)</sup> | 219949 | 19834 | 239783 |
| Interest expense, net | 61440 | 458 | 61898 |
| Income tax expense | 41952 | 5370 | 47322 |
| Capital expenditures | 339948 | 15118 | 355066 |
| **2024** |  |  |  |
| Operating revenues | $1075688 | $24809 | $1100497 |
| Depreciation | 128524 | 1078 | 129602 |
| Income from operations<sup>(1)</sup> | 173222 | 16505 | 189727 |
| Interest expense, net | 62868 | 405 | 63273 |
| Income tax expense | 30195 | 4423 | 34618 |
| Capital expenditures | 348913 | 4993 | 353906 |
| **2023** |  |  |  |
| Operating revenues | $1136400 | $22223 | $1158623 |
| Depreciation | 118417 | 1097 | 119514 |
| Income from operations<sup>(1)</sup> | 170591 | 15054 | 185645 |
| Interest expense, net | 60020 | 574 | 60594 |
| Income tax expense | 31688 | 3984 | 35672 |
| Capital expenditures | 285998 | 4847 | 290845 |

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<sup>(1) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>Income (loss) from operations is not a financial measure used by the CODM for NWN Gas Utility, but is included in the table above to enable the reconciliation of NWN Gas Utility margin to consolidated income before taxes in accordance with ASU 2023-07.

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NW Holdings and NW Natural's CODM is the chief executive officer. The CODM uses NWN Gas Utility margin, SiEnergy margin and NWN Water income from operations to allocate resources, predominantly in the annual budget and forecasting process. The CODM considers budget-to-actual variances on a monthly basis when making decisions about allocating capital and personnel. The CODM also uses NWN Gas Utility margin, SiEnergy margin and NWN Water income from operations to assess the performance of NWN Gas Utility, SiEnergy and NWN Water, respectively.

**<u>NWN Gas Utility Margin</u>**

NWN Gas Utility margin is the primary financial measure used by the CODM, consisting of NWN Gas Utility operating revenues, reduced by the associated cost of gas, environmental remediation expense, and revenue taxes. The cost of gas purchased for NWN Gas Utility customers is generally a pass-through cost in the amount of revenues billed to regulated NWN Gas Utility customers. Environmental remediation expense represents collections received from customers through environmental recovery mechanisms in Oregon and Washington as well as adjustments for the Oregon environmental earnings test when applicable. This is offset by environmental remediation expense presented in operating expenses. Revenue taxes are collected from customers and remitted to taxing authorities. The collections from customers are offset by the expense recognition of the obligation to the taxing authority. By subtracting cost of gas, environmental remediation expense, and revenue taxes from NWN Gas Utility operating revenues, NWN Gas Utility margin provides a key metric used by the CODM in assessing the performance of the NWN Gas Utility segment.

The following table presents additional segment information concerning NWN Gas Utility margin:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
| NWN Gas Utility margin calculation: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Distribution revenues | $1076111 | $1056171 | $1117498 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other regulated services | 20674 | 19517 | 18902 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total operating revenues | 1096785 | 1075688 | 1136400 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Less: Cost of gas | 356126 | 412320 | 500061 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Environmental remediation | 14623 | 14053 | 12899 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Revenue taxes | 45887 | 48037 | 48432 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Margin | 680149 | 601278 | 575008 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operations and maintenance | 264273 | 253297 | 241721 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;General taxes | 48045 | 46235 | 44279 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Depreciation | 147882 | 128524 | 118417 |
| NWN Gas Utility income from operations | $219949 | $173222 | $170591 |

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**<u>SiEnergy Gas Utility Margin</u>**

SiEnergy Gas Utility margin is the primary financial measure used by the CODM, consisting of SiEnergy operating revenues, reduced by the associated cost of gas and revenue taxes. The cost of gas purchased for SiEnergy customers is generally a pass-through cost in the amount of revenues billed to regulated SiEnergy customers. Revenue taxes are collected from customers and remitted to taxing authorities. The collections from customers are offset by the expense recognition of the obligation to the taxing authority. By subtracting cost of gas and revenue taxes from SiEnergy operating revenues, SiEnergy margin provides a key metric used by the CODM in assessing the performance of the segment.

The following table presents additional segment information concerning SiEnergy margin:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| *In thousands* | 2025 |
| SiEnergy Gas Utility margin calculation: |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Distribution revenues | $65984 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total operating revenues | 65984 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Less: Cost of gas | 19892 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Revenue taxes | 1876 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Margin | 44216 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operations and maintenance | 8642 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;General taxes | 1143 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Depreciation | 7873 |
| SiEnergy Gas Utility income from operations | $26558 |

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<sup>(1)</sup> Prior year comparatives are not provided for SiEnergy as it was acquired by NW Holdings January 7, 2025.

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**<u>Significant Segment Expenses</u>**

Public entities are required to disclose significant segment expenses for each reportable segment if they are regularly provided to the CODM and included in the reported measure of segment profit/loss. This requirement does not necessitate additional disclosure for the NWN Gas Utility and SiEnergy segments, as all expense categories are presented above in the NWN Gas Utility margin table and SiEnergy margin table, respectively. Significant segment expenses for NWN Water are presented below.

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Operating revenues | $65646 | $52036 | $38852 |
| Operating expenses: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operations and maintenance | 33139 | 28760 | 21604 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Depreciation | 8514 | 8296 | 6067 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other operating expenses<sup>(1)</sup> | 5087 | 5045 | 4612 |
| Income from operations | $18906 | $9935 | $6569 |

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<sup>(1)</sup> Other operating expenses include general and revenue taxes, cost of water purchases, and other expenses.

***5. COMMON STOCK***

As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, NW Holdings had 100 million shares of common stock authorized. As of December 31, 2025, NW Holdings had 221,577 shares reserved for issuance of common stock under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) and 184,491 shares reserved for issuance under the Dividend Reinvestment and Direct Stock Purchase Plan (DRPP). At NW Holdings' election, shares sold through the DRPP may be purchased in the open market or through original issuance of shares reserved for issuance under the DRPP.

In August 2021, NW Holdings initiated an at-the-market (ATM) equity program by entering into an equity distribution agreement under which NW Holdings issued and sold from time to time shares of common stock, no par value, having an aggregate gross sales price of up to $200 million. In August 2024, the Finance Committee of the NW Holdings' Board of Directors authorized NW Holdings' sale of an additional $200 million in the aggregate gross sales price under the ATM equity program, with the result that a total of $400 million in the aggregate gross sales price has been authorized for issuance and sale under the ATM equity program. NW Holdings is under no obligation to offer and sell common stock under the ATM equity program, which the Finance Committee of the NW Holdings' Board of Directors has authorized through August 2027. Any shares of common stock offered under the ATM equity program are registered on NW Holdings' universal shelf registration statement filed with the SEC, which expires in August 2027, or will be registered on a subsequent registration statement to be filed by NW Holdings.

During the year ended December 31, 2025, NW Holdings issued and sold 1,178,509 shares of common stock pursuant to the ATM equity program resulting in cash proceeds of $47.4 million, net of fees and commissions paid to agents of $0.9 million. As of December 31, 2025, NW Holdings had $103.4 million of equity available for issuance under the program.

**<u>Stock Repurchase Program</u>**

Effective May 23, 2024, NW Holdings' Board authorized a new share repurchase program under which NW Holdings may repurchase in open market or privately negotiated transactions up to an aggregate of 5.0 million shares or an amount not to exceed $150 million. The new share repurchase program is authorized to continue until the program is used, terminated or replaced. The repurchase program replaces the Company's previously authorized share repurchase program, which commenced in 2000 and authorized the repurchase of up to 2.8 million shares, or an amount not to exceed $100 million, in the aggregate. No shares of common stock were repurchased pursuant to our new program or prior program during the year ended December 31, 2025. Since the previous plan's inception in 2000 under NW Natural, a total of 2.1 million shares have been repurchased at a total cost of $83.3 million.

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The following table summarizes the changes in the number of shares of NW Holdings' common stock issued and outstanding:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| *In thousands* | Shares |
| Balance, December 31, 2022 | 35525 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sales to employees under ESPP | 13 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Stock-based compensation | 39 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Equity issuance | 1658 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sales to shareholders under DRPP | 69 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Shares issued in connection with business combinations | 327 |
| Balance, December 31, 2023 | 37631 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sales to employees under ESPP | 46 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Stock-based compensation | 43 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Equity issuance | 2391 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sales to shareholders under DRPP | 75 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Shares issued in connection with business combinations | 36 |
| Balance, December 31, 2024 | 40222 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sales to employees under ESPP | 40 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Stock-based compensation | 48 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Equity issuance | 1188 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sales to shareholders under DRPP | 66 |
| Balance, December 31, 2025 | 41564 |

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***6. REVENUE***

The following table presents disaggregated revenue from continuing operations:

---

| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| In thousands | NWN Gas Utility | SiEnergy Gas Utility <sup>(1)</sup> | NWN Water Utility | NW Holdings Other | NW Holdings |
| **2025** |  |  |  |  |  |
| Natural gas sales | $1014807 | $64740 | $— | $3463 | $1083010 |
| Gas storage revenue, net |  |  |  | 16774 | 16774 |
| Asset management revenue, net |  |  |  | 6816 | 6816 |
| Water and wastewater revenue |  |  | 65646 |  | 65646 |
| Appliance retail center revenue |  |  |  | 4738 | 4738 |
| Renewable natural gas sales |  |  |  | 29157 | 29157 |
| Other revenue | 3850 |  |  |  | 3850 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Revenue from contracts with customers | 1018657 | 64740 | 65646 | 60948 | 1209991 |
| Alternative revenue | 60919 | 1244 |  |  | 62163 |
| Leasing revenue | 17209 |  |  |  | 17209 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Total operating revenues | $1096785 | $65984 | $65646 | $60948 | $1289363 |
| **2024** |  |  |  |  |  |
| Natural gas sales | $1035839 | $— | $— | $33 | $1035872 |
| Gas storage revenue, net |  |  |  | 15119 | 15119 |
| Asset management revenue, net |  |  |  | 4601 | 4601 |
| Water and wastewater revenue |  |  | 52036 |  | 52036 |
| Appliance retail center revenue |  |  |  | 5089 | 5089 |
| Renewable natural gas sales |  |  |  | 428 | 428 |
| Other revenue | 3111 |  |  |  | 3111 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Revenue from contracts with customers | 1038950 |  | 52036 | 25270 | 1116256 |
| Alternative revenue | 20246 |  |  |  | 20246 |
| Leasing revenue | 16492 |  |  |  | 16492 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Total operating revenues | $1075688 | $— | $52036 | $25270 | $1152994 |
| **2023** |  |  |  |  |  |
| Natural gas sales | $1109223 | $— | $— | $— | $1109223 |
| Gas storage revenue, net |  |  |  | 12041 | 12041 |
| Asset management revenue, net |  |  |  | 5942 | 5942 |
| Water and wastewater revenue |  |  | 38852 |  | 38852 |
| Appliance retail center revenue |  |  |  | 4240 | 4240 |
| Renewable natural gas sales |  |  |  |  |  |
| Other revenue | 2929 |  |  |  | 2929 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Revenue from contracts with customers | 1112152 |  | 38852 | 22223 | 1173227 |
| Alternative revenue | 8198 |  |  |  | 8198 |
| Leasing revenue | 16050 |  |  |  | 16050 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Total operating revenues | $1136400 | $— | $38852 | $22223 | $1197475 |

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<sup>(1) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>Prior year comparatives are not provided for SiEnergy as it was acquired by NW Holdings January 7, 2025.

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The following table present disaggregated revenue of NW Natural:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| In thousands | NWN Gas Utility | NW Natural Other | NW Natural |
| **2025** |  |  |  |
| Natural gas sales | $1014807 | $— | $1014807 |
| Gas storage revenue, net |  | 16774 | 16774 |
| Asset management revenue, net |  | 6816 | 6816 |
| Appliance retail center revenue |  | 4738 | 4738 |
| Other revenue | 3850 |  | 3850 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Revenue from contracts with customers | 1018657 | 28328 | 1046985 |
| Alternative revenue | 60919 |  | 60919 |
| Leasing revenue | 17209 |  | 17209 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Total operating revenues | $1096785 | $28328 | $1125113 |
| **2024** |  |  |  |
| Natural gas sales | $1035839 | $— | $1035839 |
| Gas storage revenue, net |  | 15119 | 15119 |
| Asset management revenue, net |  | 4601 | 4601 |
| Appliance retail center revenue |  | 5089 | 5089 |
| Other revenue | 3111 |  | 3111 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Revenue from contracts with customers | 1038950 | 24809 | 1063759 |
| Alternative revenue | 20246 |  | 20246 |
| Leasing revenue | 16492 |  | 16492 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Total operating revenues | $1075688 | $24809 | $1100497 |
| **2023** |  |  |  |
| Natural gas sales | $1109223 | $— | $1109223 |
| Gas storage revenue, net |  | 12041 | 12041 |
| Asset management revenue, net |  | 5942 | 5942 |
| Appliance retail center revenue |  | 4240 | 4240 |
| Other revenue | 2929 |  | 2929 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Revenue from contracts with customers | 1112152 | 22223 | 1134375 |
| Alternative revenue | 8198 |  | 8198 |
| Leasing revenue | 16050 |  | 16050 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Total operating revenues | $1136400 | $22223 | $1158623 |

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NW Natural's revenue represents the majority of NW Holdings' revenue and is recognized when the obligation to customers is satisfied and in the amount expected to be received in exchange for transferring goods or providing services. Revenue from contracts with customers contain one performance obligation that is generally satisfied over time as the customer receives the natural gas. The transaction price is determined by a set price agreed upon in the contract or dependent on regulatory tariffs. Customer accounts are settled on a monthly basis or paid at time of sale. Based on historical experience, it is probable that we will collect substantially all of the consideration to which we are entitled. We evaluated the probability of collection in accordance with the current expected credit losses standard.

NW Holdings and NW Natural do not have any material contract assets, as net accounts receivable and accrued unbilled revenue balances are unconditional and only involve the passage of time until such balances are billed and collected. NW Holdings and NW Natural do not have any material contract liabilities.

Revenue taxes are included in operating revenues with an equal and offsetting expense recognized in operating expenses in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. Revenue-based taxes are primarily franchise taxes, which are collected from NWN Gas Utility customers and remitted to taxing authorities.

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**Components of Revenue**

The components of NW Holdings' revenue, by reportable business segment, are explained below.

**<u>NWN Gas Utility</u>**

<u>Natural Gas Sales</u>

NW Natural's primary source of revenue is providing natural gas to customers in the NWN Gas Utility service territory, which includes residential, commercial, industrial and transportation customers. NWN Gas Utility revenue is generally recognized over time upon delivery of the gas commodity or service to the customer, and the amount of consideration received and recognized as revenue is dependent on the Oregon and Washington tariffs. There is no right of return or warranty for services provided. Revenues include firm and interruptible sales and transportation services, franchise taxes recovered from the customer, late payment fees, service fees, and accruals for gas delivered but not yet billed (accrued unbilled revenue). The accrued unbilled revenue balance is based on estimates of deliveries during the period from the last meter reading and management judgment is required for a number of factors used in this calculation, including customer use and weather factors.

Customer accounts are to be paid in full each month and there is no significant financing component for this source of revenue. Due to the election of the right to invoice practical expedient, we do not disclose the value of unsatisfied performance obligations.

<u>Alternative Revenue</u>

Weather normalization (WARM) and decoupling mechanisms are considered to be alternative revenue programs. Alternative revenue programs are considered to be contracts between NW Natural and its regulator and are excluded from revenue from contracts with customers.

<u>Leasing Revenue</u>

Leasing revenue primarily consists of revenues from NW Natural's North Mist Storage contract with PGE in support of PGE's gas-fired electric power generation facilities under an initial 30-year contract with options to extend, totaling up to an additional 50 years upon mutual agreement of the parties. The facility is accounted for as a sales-type lease with regulatory accounting deferral treatment. The investment is included in rate base under an established cost-of-service tariff schedule, with revenues recognized according to the tariff schedule and profit upon commencement was deferred and will be amortized over the lease term. Leasing revenue also contains rental revenue from small leases of property owned by NW Natural to third parties. The majority of these transactions are accounted for as operating leases and the revenue is recognized over the term of the lease agreement. Lease revenue is excluded from revenue from contracts with customers. See Note 7 for additional information.

**<u>SiEnergy Gas Utility</u>**

SiEnergy Gas Utility's primary source of revenue is providing natural gas to customers in the SiEnergy service territory, which includes residential and commercial customers. SiEnergy revenue is generally recognized over time upon delivery of the gas commodity or service to the customer, and the amount of consideration received and recognized as revenue is dependent on the Texas tariff. There is no right of return or warranty for services provided.The accrued unbilled revenue balance is based on estimates of deliveries during the period from the last meter reading and management judgment is required for a number of factors used in this calculation, including customer use and weather factors.

Customer accounts are to be paid in full each month and there is no significant financing component for this source of revenue. Due to the election of the right to invoice practical expedient, we do not disclose the value of unsatisfied performance obligations.

<u>Alternative Revenue</u>

Weather normalization (WNA) is considered to be an alternative revenue program. An alternative revenue program is considered to be a contract between SiEnergy and its regulators and are excluded from revenue from contracts with customers.

**<u>NWN Water Utility</u>**

NWN Water Utility provides water and wastewater services to customers. Water and wastewater service revenue is generally recognized over time upon delivery of the water commodity or service to the customer, and the amount of consideration received and recognized as revenue is dependent on the tariffs established in the states we operate. There is no right of return or warranty for services provided.

Customer accounts are to be paid in full each month, bi-monthly, or quarterly and as such, there is no significant financing component for this source of revenue. Due to the election of the right to invoice practical expedient, we do not disclose the value of unsatisfied performance obligations.

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**<u>NW Holdings Other</u>**

<u>Renewable Natural Gas Sales</u>

NWN Renewables is an unregulated subsidiary of NW Holdings established to pursue investments in renewable natural gas (RNG) activities. NWN Renewables' primary source of revenue is from the sale of RNG under long-term contracts. RNG revenue is generally recognized over time upon delivery of the gas commodity to the customer at the designated delivery point and the amount of consideration received and recognized as revenue is dependent on a variable pricing model defined per the contract. Customer accounts are to be paid in full each month and as such, there is no significant financing component for this source of revenue. Due to the election of the right to invoice practical expedient, we do not disclose the value of unsatisfied performance obligations.

<u>NW Natural Gas Storage Revenue</u>

NW Natural's other revenue includes gas storage activity, which includes Interstate Storage Services used to store natural gas for customers. Gas storage revenue is generally recognized over time as the gas storage service is provided to the customer and the amount of consideration received and recognized as revenue is dependent on set rates defined per the storage agreements. Noncash consideration in the form of dekatherms of natural gas is received as consideration for providing gas injection services to gas storage customers. This noncash consideration is measured at fair value using the average spot rate. Customer accounts are generally paid in full each month, and there is no right of return or warranty for services provided. Revenues include firm and interruptible storage services, net of the profit sharing amount refunded to NWN Gas Utility customers.

<u>NW Natural Asset Management Revenue</u>

Revenues include the optimization of storage assets and pipeline capacity by a third-party and are provided net of the profit sharing amount refunded to NWN Gas Utility customers. Certain asset management revenues received are recognized over time using a straight-line approach over the term of each contract, and the amount of consideration received and recognized as revenue is dependent on a variable pricing model. Variable revenues earned above guaranteed amounts are estimated and recognized at the end of each period using the most likely amount approach. Additionally, other asset management revenues may be based on a fixed rate. Generally, asset management accounts are settled on a monthly basis.

As of December 31, 2025, unrecognized revenue for the fixed component of the transaction price related to gas storage and asset management revenue was approximately $114.7 million. Of this amount, approximately $26.8 million will be recognized in 2026, $20.3 million in 2027, $16.8 million in 2028, $16.8 million in 2029, $16.3 million in 2030 and $17.7 million thereafter. The amounts presented here are calculated using current contracted rates.

<u>NW Natural Appliance Retail Center Revenue</u>

NW Natural owns and operates an appliance store that is open to the public, where customers can purchase natural gas home appliances. Revenue from the sale of appliances is recognized at the point in time in which the appliance is transferred to the third party responsible for delivery and installation services and when the customer has legal title to the appliance. It is required that the sale be paid for in full prior to transfer of legal title. The amount of consideration received and recognized as revenue varies with changes in marketing incentives and discounts offered to customers.

The components of NW Natural's revenue are described above in NWN Gas Utility and NW Holdings Other.

***7. LEASES***

**<u>Lease Revenue</u>**

Leasing revenue primarily consists of NW Natural's North Mist natural gas storage agreement with PGE which is billed under an OPUC-approved rate schedule and includes an initial 30-year term beginning May 2019 with options to extend, totaling up to an additional 50 years upon mutual agreement of the parties. Under U.S. GAAP, this agreement is classified as a sales-type lease and qualifies for regulatory accounting deferral treatment. The investment in the storage facility is included in rate base under a separately established cost-of-service tariff, with revenues recognized according to the tariff schedule. As such, the selling profit that was calculated upon commencement as part of the sale-type lease recognition was deferred and will be amortized over the lease term. Billing rates under the cost-of-service tariff will be updated annually to reflect current information including depreciable asset levels, forecasted operating expenses, and the results of regulatory proceedings, as applicable, and revenue received under this agreement is recognized as operating revenue on the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. There are no variable payments or residual value guarantees. The lease does not contain an option to purchase the underlying assets.

NW Natural also maintains a sales-type lease for specialized compressor facilities to provide high pressure compressed natural gas (CNG) services. Lease payments are outlined in an OPUC-approved rate schedule over a 10-year term. There are no variable payments or residual value guarantees. The selling profit computed upon lease commencement was not significant.

Our lessor portfolio also contains small leases of property owned by NW Natural to third parties. These transactions are accounted for as operating leases and the revenue is recognized over the term of the lease agreement.

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The components of lease revenue at NW Natural were as follows:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | Year ended December 31, | Year ended December 31, | Year ended December 31, |
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Lease revenue |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operating leases | $82 | $86 | $76 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sales-type leases | 17127 | 16406 | 15974 |
| Total lease revenue | $17209 | $16492 | $16050 |

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Additionally, lease revenue of $0.6 million was recognized for each of the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024, and 2023, respectively, related to operating leases associated with non-utility property rentals. Lease revenue related to these leases was presented in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of comprehensive income as it is non-operating income.

Total future minimum lease payments to be received under non-cancelable leases at December 31, 2025 are as follows:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| *In thousands* | Operating | Sales-Type | Total |
| **NW Natural:** |  |  |  |
| 2026 | $43 | $14901 | $14944 |
| 2027 | 27 | 14500 | 14527 |
| 2028 |  | 14004 | 14004 |
| 2029 |  | 13594 | 13594 |
| 2030 |  | 13204 | 13204 |
| Thereafter |  | 181518 | 181518 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total minimum lease payments | $70 | 251721 | $251791 |
| Less: imputed interest |  | 132173 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total leases receivable |  | $119548 |  |
| **Other NW Holdings:** |  |  |  |
| 2026 | $56 | $— | $56 |
| 2027 | 57 |  | 57 |
| 2028 | 58 |  | 58 |
| 2029 | 59 |  | 59 |
| 2030 | 60 |  | 60 |
| Thereafter | 681 |  | 681 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total minimum lease payments | $971 | $— | $971 |
| **NW Holdings:** |  |  |  |
| 2026 | $99 | $14901 | $15000 |
| 2027 | 84 | 14500 | 14584 |
| 2028 | 58 | 14004 | 14062 |
| 2029 | 59 | 13594 | 13653 |
| 2030 | 60 | 13204 | 13264 |
| Thereafter | 681 | 181518 | 182199 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total minimum lease payments | $1041 | 251721 | $252762 |
| Less: imputed interest |  | 132173 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total leases receivable |  | $119548 |  |

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The total leases receivable above is reported under the NWN Gas Utility segment and the short- and long-term portions are included within other current assets and assets under sales-type leases on the consolidated balance sheets, respectively. The total amount of unguaranteed residual assets was $6.5 million and $6.0 million at December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively, and is included in assets under sales-type leases on the consolidated balance sheets. Additionally, under regulatory accounting, the revenues and expenses associated with these agreements are presented on the consolidated statements of comprehensive income such that their presentation aligns with similar regulated activities at NW Natural.

**<u>Lease Expense</u>**

<u>Operating Leases</u>

We have operating leases for land, buildings and equipment. Our primary lease is for NW Natural's headquarters and operations center. Our leases have remaining lease terms of five months to 14 years. Many of our lease agreements include options to extend the lease, which we do not include in our minimum lease terms unless they are reasonably certain to be exercised. Short-term leases with a term of 12 months or less are not recorded on the balance sheet.

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As most of our leases do not provide an implicit rate and are entered into by NW Natural, we use an estimated discount rate representing the rate we would have incurred to finance the funds necessary to purchase the leased asset and is based on information available at the lease commencement date in determining the present value of lease payments.

NW Holdings assumed operating leases in connection with the SiEnergy acquisition. The leases primarily relate to office space, warehouse facilities, and land use agreements supporting the operations of SiEnergy. The assumed leases resulted in an increase of $2.3 million to both the operating lease right of use asset and operating lease liabilities recognized by NW Holdings. No finance type leases were assumed as part of the acquisition. The assumed lease balances are reflected in the disclosures and financial statements of NW Holdings as of December 31, 2025. Refer to Note 14 for additional information.

The components of lease expense, a portion of which is capitalized, were as follows:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | Year ended December 31, 2025 | Year ended December 31, 2025 | Year ended December 31, 2025 |
| *In thousands* | NW Natural | Other<br>(NW Holdings) | NW Holdings |
| Operating lease expense | $7754 | $957 | $8711 |
| Short-term lease expense | 557 |  | 557 |

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | Year ended December 31, 2024 | Year ended December 31, 2024 | Year ended December 31, 2024 |
| *In thousands* | NW Natural | Other<br>(NW Holdings) | NW Holdings |
| Operating lease expense | $7545 | $198 | $7743 |
| Short-term lease expense | 595 |  | 595 |

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | Year ended December 31, 2023 | Year ended December 31, 2023 | Year ended December 31, 2023 |
| *In thousands* | NW Natural | Other<br>(NW Holdings) | NW Holdings |
| Operating lease expense | $7244 | $176 | $7420 |
| Short-term lease expense | 925 |  | 925 |

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Supplemental balance sheet information related to operating leases as of December 31, 2025 is as follows:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| *In thousands* | NW Natural | Other<br>(NW Holdings) | NW Holdings |
| Operating lease right of use assets | $65650 | $2574 | $68224 |
| Operating lease liabilities - current liabilities | $2515 | $713 | $3228 |
| Operating lease liabilities - non-current liabilities | 73097 | 1889 | 74986 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total operating lease liabilities | $75612 | $2602 | $78214 |

---

Supplemental balance sheet information related to operating leases as of December 31, 2024 is as follows:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| *In thousands* | NW Natural | Other<br>(NW Holdings) | NW Holdings |
| Operating lease right of use assets | $68115 | $511 | $68626 |
| Operating lease liabilities - current liabilities | $1653 | $187 | $1840 |
| Operating lease liabilities - non-current liabilities | 75591 | 323 | 75914 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total operating lease liabilities | $77244 | $510 | $77754 |

---

The weighted-average remaining lease terms and weighted-average discount rates for the operating leases at NW Natural were as follows:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | 2025 | 2024 |
| Weighted-average remaining lease term (years) | 14.3 | 15.3 |
| Weighted-average discount rate | 7.3% | 7.3% |

---

SiEnergy had operating leases with a weighted-average remaining lease term of 4.1 years and a weighted-average discount rate of 6.0% as of December 31, 2025.

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<u>Headquarters and Operations Center Lease</u>

NW Natural commenced a 20-year operating lease agreement in March 2020 for a new headquarters and operations center in Portland, Oregon. There is an option to extend the term of the lease for two additional periods of seven years. There is a material timing difference between the minimum lease payments and expense recognition as calculated under operating lease accounting rules. OPUC issued an order allowing us to align our expense recognition with cash payments for ratemaking purposes. We recorded the difference between the minimum lease payments and the aggregate of the imputed interest on the finance lease obligation and amortization of the right-of-use asset as a regulatory asset on our balance sheet. The balance of the regulatory asset was $9.7 million and $9.0 million as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.

Maturities of operating lease liabilities at December 31, 2025 were as follows:

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| *In thousands* | NW Natural | Other<br>(NW Holdings) | NW Holdings |
| 2026 | $7619 | $846 | $8465 |
| 2027 | 7612 | 721 | 8333 |
| 2028 | 7795 | 598 | 8393 |
| 2029 | 7983 | 567 | 8550 |
| 2030 | 8080 | 232 | 8312 |
| Thereafter | 85329 |  | 85329 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total lease payments | 124418 | 2964 | 127382 |
| Less: imputed interest | 48806 | 362 | 49168 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total lease obligations | 75612 | 2602 | 78214 |
| Less: current obligations | 2515 | 713 | 3228 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Long-term lease obligations | $73097 | $1889 | $74986 |

---

As of December 31, 2025, there were no finance lease liabilities at NW Natural and NW Holdings.

<u>Cash Flow Information</u>

Supplemental cash flow information related to leases was as follows:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | Year ended December 31, 2025 | Year ended December 31, 2025 | Year ended December 31, 2025 |
| *In thousands* | NW Natural | Other<br>(NW Holdings) | NW Holdings |
| Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operating cash flows from operating leases <sup>(1)</sup> | $7709 | $733 | $8442 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Finance cash flows from finance leases | 340 |  | 340 |
| Right of use assets obtained in exchange for lease obligations |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operating leases | $568 | $2671 | $3239 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Finance leases | 340 |  | 340 |

---

<sup>(1)</sup> Includes approximately $2.3 million of non-cash operating lease right of use asset and operating lease liabilities recognized as part of the SiEnergy acquisition.

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | Year ended December 31, 2024 | Year ended December 31, 2024 | Year ended December 31, 2024 |
| *In thousands* | NW Natural | Other<br>(NW Holdings) | NW Holdings |
| Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operating cash flows from operating leases | $7495 | $199 | $7694 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Finance cash flows from finance leases | 529 |  | 529 |
| Right of use assets obtained in exchange for lease obligations |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operating leases | $250 | $108 | $358 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Finance leases | 529 |  | 529 |

---

------

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | Year ended December 31, 2023 | Year ended December 31, 2023 | Year ended December 31, 2023 |
| *In thousands* | NW Natural | Other<br>(NW Holdings) | NW Holdings |
| Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operating cash flows from operating leases | $7434 | $176 | $7610 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Finance cash flows from finance leases | 369 |  | 369 |
| Right of use assets obtained in exchange for lease obligations |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operating leases | $659 | $— | $659 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Finance leases | 369 | 101 | 470 |

---

<u>Finance Leases</u>

NW Natural also leases building storage spaces for use as a gas meter room in order to provide natural gas to multifamily or mixed use developments. These contracts are accounted for as finance leases and typically involve a one-time upfront payment with no remaining liability. The right of use asset for finance leases was $3.3 million and $3.0 million at December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.

***8. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION***

Stock-based compensation plans are designed to promote stock ownership in NW Holdings by employees and officers of NW Holdings and its affiliates. These compensation plans include a Long Term Incentive Plan (LTIP) and an ESPP.

**<u>Long Term Incentive Plan</u>**

The LTIP is intended to provide a flexible competitive compensation program for eligible officers and key employees. Under the LTIP, shares of NW Holdings common stock are authorized for equity incentive grants in the form of stock, restricted stock, restricted stock units, stock options, or performance shares. An aggregate of 2,250,000 shares were authorized for issuance as of December 31, 2025. Shares awarded under the LTIP may be purchased on the open market or issued as original shares.

Of the 2,250,000 shares of common stock authorized for LTIP awards at December 31, 2025, there were 1,117,110 shares available for issuance under any type of award. This assumes market, performance, and service-based grants currently outstanding are awarded at the target level. There were no outstanding grants of restricted stock or stock options under the LTIP at December 31, 2025 or 2024. The LTIP stock awards are compensatory awards for which compensation expense is based on the fair value of stock awards, with expense being recognized over the performance and vesting period of the outstanding awards. Forfeitures are recognized as they occur.

<u>Performance Shares</u>

LTIP performance shares incorporate a combination of market, performance, and service-based factors. The following table summarizes performance share expense information:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| *Dollars in thousands* | Shares<sup>(1)</sup>  | Expense During Award Year<sup>(2)</sup> | Total Expense for Award |
| Estimated award: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;2023-2025 grant<sup>(3)</sup> | 57437 | $1825 | $1825 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;2025-2027 grant<sup>(4)</sup> | 5097 | $70 | $70 |
| Actual award: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2022-2024 grant | 37059 | $1098 | $1098 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2021-2023 grant | 40719 | $1581 | $1581 |

---

<sup>(1) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>In addition to common stock shares, a participant also receives a dividend equivalent cash payment equal to the number of shares of common stock received on the award payout multiplied by the aggregate cash dividends paid per share during the performance period.

<sup>(2) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>Amount represents the expense recognized in the third year of the vesting period noted above. For the 2021-2023, 2022-2024 and 2023-2025 grants, mutual understanding of the award's key terms was established in the third year of the vesting period, triggering full expense recognition in 2023, 2024, and 2025, respectively. For certain shares of the 2025-2027 grant, mutual understanding of the award's key terms was established in the first year of the vesting period, triggering expense recognition in 2025.

<sup>(3)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>This represents the estimated number of shares to be awarded as of December 31, 2025 as certain performance share measures have been achieved. Amounts are subject to change with final payout amounts authorized by the Board of Directors in February 2026.

<sup>(4)</sup> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This represents the estimated number of shares to be awarded as of December 31, 2025 as certain performance share measures have been achieved. Amounts are subject to change with final payout amounts authorized by the Board of Directors in February 2028.

------

The aggregate number of performance shares granted and outstanding at the target and maximum levels were as follows:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| *Dollars in thousands* | Performance Share Awards Outstanding | Performance Share Awards Outstanding | 2025 |
| Performance Period | Target | Maximum | Expense |
| 2023-25 | 41678 | 83356 | $1825 |
| 2024-26 |  |  |  |
| 2025-27 | 6135 | 12270 | 70 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | 47813 | 95626 | $1895 |

---

Performance share awards are based on the achievement of a three-year ROIC threshold that must be met and a cumulative EPS or EBITDA factor, which can be modified by a TSR factor relative to a specified peer group (2023-2025, 2024-2026, 2025-2027 performance share awards) over the three-year performance period. For the 2023-2025, 2024-2026 and certain 2025-2027 performance share awards, the performance period allows for one of the performance factors to remain variable until the first quarter of the third year of the award period. In the instances where the performance factor will not be approved until the first quarter of 2026 or 2027, there is not a mutual understanding of the awards' key terms and conditions between NW Natural and the participants as of December 31, 2025, and therefore, no expense was recognized for the 2024-2026 performance share awards and the majority of the 2025-2027 performance share awards as of December 31, 2025. NW Natural will calculate the grant date fair value and recognize expense once the final performance factor has been approved. If the target is achieved for those 2024-2026 and remaining 2025-2027 awards, NW Holdings would grant for accounting purposes 52,178 and 73,640 shares in the first quarter of 2026 and 2027, respectively.

Compensation expense is recognized in accordance with accounting standards for stock-based compensation and calculated based on performance levels achieved and an estimated fair value using the Monte-Carlo method. Due to there not being a mutual understanding of the 2024-2026 and certain 2025-2027 awards' key terms and conditions as noted above, the grant date fair value has not yet been determined and no non-vested shares existed at December 31, 2025. The weighted-average grant date fair value of non-vested shares associated with the 2023-2025 awards was $36.60 per share at December 31, 2025. The weighted-average grant date fair value of shares vested during the year was $36.60 per share and there was no unrecognized compensation expense for accounting purposes as of December 31, 2025. The weighted-average grant date fair value of non-vested shares associated with certain shares that met mutual understanding of the 2025-2027 awards was $47.15 per share at December 31, 2025. The weighted-average grant date fair value of shares vested during the year was $47.15 per share and there was $0.1 million of unrecognized compensation expense as of December 31, 2025, which is expected to be recognized over a period through 2028.

<u>Restricted Stock Units</u>

The RSUs awarded are generally forfeitable and include a performance-based threshold as well as a vesting period of three or four years from the grant date. The majority of our RSU grants obligate NW Holdings, upon vesting, to issue the RSU holder one share of common stock. The grant may also include a cash payment equal to the total amount of dividends paid per share between the grant date and vesting date of that portion of the RSU depending on the structure of the award agreement. The fair value of an RSU is equal to the closing market price of NW Holdings' common stock on the grant date. During 2025, total RSU expense was $2.3 million compared to $1.9 million in 2024 and 2023. As of December 31, 2025, there was $3.8 million of unrecognized compensation cost from grants of RSUs, which is expected to be recognized over a period extending through 2028.

Information regarding the RSU activity is summarized as follows:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | Number of RSUs | Weighted -<br>Average<br>Price Per RSU |
| Nonvested, December 31, 2022 | 99848 | $50.44 |
| Granted | 45532 | 48.24 |
| Vested | (36393) | 56.65 |
| Forfeited | (11696) | 49.98 |
| Nonvested, December 31, 2023 | 97291 | 49.80 |
| Granted | 68907 | 39.18 |
| Vested | (35662) | 52.51 |
| Forfeited | (8131) | 45.33 |
| Nonvested, December 31, 2024 | 122405 | 43.34 |
| Granted | 69612 | 41.77 |
| Vested | (45107) | 45.14 |
| Forfeited | (8374) | 42.38 |
| Nonvested, December 31, 2025 | 138536 | $42.02 |

---

------

**<u>Employee Stock Purchase Plan</u>**

NW Holdings' ESPP allows employees of NW Holdings, NW Natural and certain designated subsidiaries to purchase common stock at 85% of the closing price on the trading day immediately preceding the initial offering date, which is set annually. For the 2025-2026 ESPP period, each eligible employee may purchase up to $21,216 worth of stock through payroll deductions over a period defined by the Board of Directors, with shares issued at the end of the subscription period.

**<u>Stock-Based Compensation Expense</u>**

Stock-based compensation expense is recognized as operations and maintenance expense or is capitalized as part of construction overhead at the entity at which the award recipient is employed. The following table summarizes the NW Holdings' financial statement impact, substantially all of which was recorded at NW Natural, of stock-based compensation under the LTIP and ESPP:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Operations and maintenance expense, for stock-based compensation | $3739 | $2907 | $3293 |
| Income tax benefit | (990) | (770) | (872) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net stock-based compensation effect on net income | 2749 | 2137 | 2421 |
| Amounts capitalized for stock-based compensation | $384 | $325 | $305 |

---

***9. DEBT***

**<u>Short-Term Debt</u>**

The primary source of short-term liquidity for NW Holdings is cash balances, dividends from its operating subsidiaries, in particular NW Natural, proceeds from the sale of commercial paper notes, available cash from a multi-year credit facility, and short-term credit facilities it may enter into from time to time.

The primary source of short-term liquidity for NW Natural is from the sale of commercial paper, available cash from a multi-year credit facility, and short-term credit facilities it may enter into from time to time. In addition to issuing commercial paper or entering into bank loans to meet working capital requirements, including seasonal requirements to finance gas purchases and accounts receivable, short-term debt may also be used to temporarily fund capital requirements. For NW Natural, commercial paper and bank loans are periodically refinanced through the sale of long-term debt or equity contributions from NW Holdings. Commercial paper, when outstanding, is sold through two commercial banks under an issuing and paying agency agreement and is supported by one or more unsecured revolving credit facilities. See "*Credit Agreements*" below.

At December 31, 2025 and 2024, NW Holdings' short-term debt consisted of the following:

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | December 31, 2024 |
| *In millions* | Balance Outstanding | Weighted Average Interest Rate<sup>(1)</sup> | Balance Outstanding | Weighted Average Interest Rate<sup>(1)</sup> |
| Commercial Paper Borrowings - NW Holdings<sup>(2)</sup> | $162.0 | 4.1% | $— | —% |
| Commercial Paper Borrowings - NW Natural | 10.0 | 4.0% | 136.5 | 4.8% |
| NW Holdings Credit Agreement Loans |  | —% | 33.6 | 5.5% |
| Total short-term debt | $172.0 |  | $170.1 |  |

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<sup>(1)</sup> Weighted average interest rate on outstanding short-term debt

<sup>(2)</sup> NW Holdings initiated a commercial paper program in March 2025.

The carrying cost of commercial paper approximates fair value using Level 2 inputs. See Note 2 for a description of the fair value hierarchy. At December 31, 2025, NW Holdings' commercial paper had a maximum remaining maturity of 49 days and an average remaining maturity of 26 days. At December 31, 2025, NW Natural's commercial paper had a maximum remaining maturity of 5 days and an average remaining maturity of 4 days.

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**<u>Credit Agreements</u>**

<u>NW Holdings</u>

NW Holdings has a $250 million credit agreement, with a feature to request increases up to $350 million. The maturity date of the agreement is November 3, 2030.

This agreement permits the issuance of letters of credit in an aggregate amount up to $40 million. The credit agreement requires NW Holdings to maintain a consolidated indebtedness to total capitalization ratio of 70% or less. NW Holdings was in compliance with this covenant at December 31, 2025 and 2024.

The NW Holdings credit agreement requires NW Holdings to maintain debt ratings with specified credit rating agencies. Interest rates on any loans outstanding are tied to debt ratings; therefore, a change in the debt rating would increase or decrease the cost of any loans under the credit agreement.

There were no outstanding balances under the NW Holdings agreement at December 31, 2025 and $33.6 million of outstanding balances under the NW Holdings agreement at December 31, 2024. No letters of credit were issued or outstanding under the NW Holdings agreement at December 31, 2025 and 2024.

<u>NW Natural</u>

NW Natural has a $400 million credit agreement for unsecured revolving loans, with a feature that allowed NW Natural to request increases up to a maximum of $600 million, with a maturity date of November 3, 2030.

This agreement permits the issuance of letters of credit in an aggregate amount of up to $60 million. The credit agreement requires NW Natural to maintain a consolidated indebtedness to total capitalization ratio of 70% or less. NW Natural was in compliance with this covenant at December 31, 2025 and 2024.

The NW Natural credit agreement requires NW Natural to maintain debt ratings with specified credit rating agencies. Interest rates on any loans outstanding under the credit agreement are tied to debt ratings; therefore, a change in the debt rating would increase or decrease the cost of any loans under the credit agreement.

There were no outstanding balances under the NW Natural agreement at December 31, 2025 and 2024.There were no letters of credit outstanding under NW Natural's credit agreement at December 31, 2025 and 2024.

<u>SiEnergy</u>

On January 7, 2025, NW Holdings acquired all of the issued and outstanding limited liability company interests of SiEnergy. SiEnergy's subsidiary, SiEnergy Holdings, had a revolving credit facility (the SiEnergy Holdings Facility) that in aggregate had commitments of $5.0 million, including a letter of credit sublimit of $1.0 million. Loans extended under the SiEnergy Holdings Facility bore interest at a per annum rate equal to the sum of (a) either (i) the Base Rate, as defined in the Amended Credit Agreement (the Base Rate), or (ii) term SOFR with a one-, three- or six-month tenor; plus (b) the Applicable Margin. The Applicable Margin was 0.750% with respect to Base Rate loans and 1.750% with respect to SOFR loans. In August 2025, the SiEnergy Amended Credit Agreement was terminated and associated facilities are no longer available for financing.

On November 3, 2025, SiEnergy Holdings entered into a $75 million senior unsecured credit agreement, with a feature that allows SiEnergy to request increases up to a maximum of $125 million, with a maturity date of November 3, 2030.

This agreement permits the issuance of letters of credit in an aggregate amount up to $20 million. The credit agreement requires SiEnergy to maintain a consolidated indebtedness to total capitalization ratio of 70% or less. SiEnergy was in compliance with this covenant at December 31, 2025.

The SiEnergy credit agreement requires SiEnergy to maintain debt ratings with specified credit rating agencies. Interest rates on any loans outstanding under the credit agreement are tied to debt ratings; therefore, a change in the debt rating would increase or decrease the cost of any loans under the credit agreement.

There were no outstanding balances under the SiEnergy agreement at December 31, 2025. There were no letters of credit outstanding at December 31, 2025 under SiEnergy's credit agreement.

**<u>Letters of Credit Facility</u>**

------

Although there is no expressly stated maximum amount of Letters of Credit that can be issued or outstanding under the LC Facility, under current regulatory authority from the OPUC, the aggregate sum of Letters of Credit outstanding and available to be drawn under the LC Reimbursement Agreement may not exceed $100 million at any one time. The Issuing Banks have no commitment to issue Letters of Credit under the LC Facility and will have the discretion to limit and condition the terms for the issuance of Letters of Credit (including maximum face amounts) in their sole discretion.

The LC Reimbursement Agreement requires NW Natural to maintain certain ratings with S&P and Moody's. NW Natural must also notify the Administrative Agent and Lenders of any change in the S&P or Moody's Ratings, although any such change is not an event of default.

The LC Reimbursement Agreement prohibits NW Natural from permitting Consolidated Indebtedness to be greater than 70% of Total Capitalization, each as defined therein and calculated as of the end of each fiscal quarter of NW Natural. Failure to comply with this financial covenant would constitute an Event of Default under the LC Reimbursement Agreement. The occurrence of this or any other Event of Default would entitle the Administrative Agent to require cash collateral for the LC Exposure, as defined in the LC Reimbursement Agreement, and to exercise all other rights and remedies available to it and the Lenders under the Credit Documents, as defined in the LC Reimbursement Agreement, and under applicable law.

There were no letters of credit issued or outstanding under the LC Reimbursement Agreement at December 31, 2025.

**<u>Long-Term Debt</u>**

At December 31, 2025 and 2024, NW Holdings long-term debt consisted of the following:

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | December 31, 2024 |
| *In millions* | Balance Outstanding | Weighted Average Interest Rate<sup>(1)</sup> | Balance Outstanding | Weighted Average Interest Rate<sup>(1)</sup> |
| NW Natural first mortgage bonds | $1544.7 | 4.7% | $1374.7 | 4.6% |
| SiEnergy secured senior notes | 185.0 | 5.6% |  | —% |
| NWN Water term loan | 55.0 | 4.7% | 55.0 | 4.7% |
| Other water debt | 4.0 |  | 6.1 |  |
| NW Holdings unsecured senior bonds | 285.0 | 5.7% | 285.0 | 5.7% |
| NW Holdings term loan | 50.0 | 5.2% |  | —% |
| NW Holdings junior subordinated debentures | 325.0 | 7.0% |  | —% |
| Long-term debt, gross | 2448.7 |  | 1720.8 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Less: unamortized debt issuance costs | 15.9 |  | 10.6 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Less: current maturities | 160.6 |  | 30.8 |  |
| Total long-term debt | $2272.2 |  | $1679.4 |  |

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<sup>(1)</sup> Weighted average interest rate for the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024.

<u>NW Natural Long-Term Debt</u>

NW Natural's issuance of First Mortgage Bonds (FMBs), which includes NW Natural's medium-term notes, under the Mortgage and Deed of Trust (Mortgage) is limited by eligible property and other provisions of the Mortgage. The Mortgage constitutes a first mortgage lien on certain gas properties owned from time to time by NW Natural, including substantially all of the property constituting NW Natural's natural gas distribution plant balances.

**<u>Summary of Significant Debt Issuances</u>**

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| *In millions* | Year ended December 31, 2025 | Year ended December 31, 2025 | Year ended December 31, 2025 | Year ended December 31, 2025 |
| **NW Holdings** | Issuance Date | Maturity Date | Interest Rate | Amount |
| Unsecured Term Loan <sup>(a)(b)</sup> | January 2025 | August 2026 | SOFR + 90 bps Spread <sup>(c)</sup> | $50.0 |
| Junior Subordinated Debentures <sup>(d)(e)</sup> | March 2025 | September 2055 | 7.00% | 325.0 |
| **SiEnergy**<sup>(f)</sup> |  |  |  |  |
| Series A Senior Notes | August 2025 | August 2030 | 4.86% | 50.0 |
| Series B Senior Notes | August 2025 | August 2035 | 5.42% | 40.0 |
| Series C Senior Notes | August 2025 | August 2055 | 6.04% | 95.0 |
| **NW Natural**<sup>(g)</sup> |  |  |  |  |
| First Mortgage Bonds | December 2025 | May 2036 | 5.13% | 75.0 |
| First Mortgage Bonds | December 2025 | December 2055 | 5.90% | 125.0 |
|  |  | Total long-term debt issuance | Total long-term debt issuance | $760.0 |

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<sup>(a)</sup>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds were used to support working capital needs and for general corporate purposes.

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<sup>(b)</sup>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;On November 3, 2025, an amendment to the Term Loan extended the maturity date to August 6, 2026. NW Holdings may prepay the Term Loan without premium or penalty (other than customary breakage costs, if applicable). Amounts prepaid may not be reborrowed.

<sup>(c)</sup>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Term Loan Agreement bears interest at a per annum rate equal to the sum of (x) either (i) term SOFR with a one-, three- or six-month tenor, plus an adjustment of 0.10%, or (ii) the Alternate Base Rate, as defined in the Term Loan Agreement, plus (y) the Applicable Margin, as defined in the Term Loan Agreement. The Applicable Margin is 0.90% per annum, for term SOFR loans, and 0.00% per annum, for Alternate Base Rate loans.

<sup>(d)</sup>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds were used to repay the acquisition bridge facility entered into on January 7, 2025 by NW Holdings for the acquisitions of SiEnergy; any remaining proceeds were used for working capital needs and for general corporate purposes.

<sup>(e)</sup>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company will pay interest on the Junior Subordinated Debentures (i) from and including the date of original issuance to, but not including, September 15, 2035, at an annual rate of 7.00% and (ii) from and including September 15, 2035, during each Interest Reset Period at an annual rate equal to the Five-Year Treasury Rate as of the most recent Reset Interest Determination Date plus 2.701%.

<sup>(f)</sup>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds were used to repay SiEnergy's $148.8 million remaining balance on the Delayed Draw Term Loan Facility.

<sup>(g)</sup>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds were used to support working capital needs and for general corporate purposes including repayment of debt.

**<u>Summary of Significant Debt Extinguishments and Repayments</u>**

<u>NW Holdings</u>

On January 7, 2025, NW Holdings entered into a 364-Day Term Loan Credit Agreement (the Acquisition Bridge Facility) among NW Holdings, as borrower, certain lenders parties thereto, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent, pursuant to which NW Holdings borrowed a $273.0 million senior unsecured term loan (the Bridge Loan), the proceeds of which were used to finance the SiEnergy acquisition, with any remaining proceeds to be used for working capital needs and for general corporate purposes. The Bridge Loan was repaid in full in March 2025. In March 2025, the Acquisition Bridge Facility used to finance the acquisition of SiEnergy was repaid in full.

<u>NW Natural</u>

In September 2025, the $20.0 million first mortgage bond 7.720% Series Due 2025 was repaid in full. In December 2025, the $10.0 million first mortgage bond 6.520% Series Due 2025 was repaid in full.

<u>SiEnergy</u>

In August 2025, the proceeds of the senior notes issued by SiEnergy Gas, LLC in August 2025 (the August 2025 Notes) were used to extinguish the $148.8 million remaining balance of the SiEnergy Delayed Draw Term Loan Facility (SiEnergy DDTLF) ($148.8 million) and the SiEnergy Revolving Credit Facility was terminated. The SiEnergy DDTLF and Revolving Credit Facility under SiEnergy's Credit Agreement were acquired by NW Holdings on January 7, 2025 as part of the acquisition of all of the issued and outstanding limited liability company interests of SiEnergy.

The SiEnergy DDTLF had initial aggregate commitments, as amended, of $200.0 million. The SiEnergy DDTLF was scheduled to mature on December 22, 2026. Loans extended under the SiEnergy DDTLF bore interest at a per annum rate equal to the sum of (a) either (i) the Base Rate, as defined in the Amended Credit Agreement (the Base Rate), or (ii) term SOFR with a one-, three- or six-month tenor; plus (b) the Applicable Margin. The Applicable Margin was 0.750% with respect to Base Rate loans and 1.750% with respect to SOFR loans.

<u>Maturities and Outstanding Long-Term Debt</u>

Retirement of long-term debt for each of the annual periods through December 31, 2030 and thereafter are as follows:

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| *In thousands* | NW Natural | SiEnergy | NWN Water | NW Holdings Other | NW Holdings |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2026 | $55000 | $— | $55703 | $50000 | $160703 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2027 | 64700 |  | 724 |  | 65424 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2028 | 10000 |  | 701 | 100000 | 110701 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2029 | 50000 |  | 384 | 140000 | 190384 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2030 | 30000 | 50000 | 115 |  | 80115 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Thereafter | 1335000 | 135000 | 1420 | 370000 | 1841420 |
| Total | $1544700 | $185000 | $59047 | $660000 | $2448747 |

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The following table presents debt outstanding at NW Natural as of December 31:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 |
| **NW Natural:** |  |  |
| <u>First Mortgage Bonds:</u> |  |  |
| 7.720% Series due 2025 | $— | $20000 |
| 6.520% Series due 2025 |  | 10000 |
| 7.050% Series due 2026 | 20000 | 20000 |
| 3.211% Series due 2026 | 35000 | 35000 |
| 7.000% Series due 2027 | 20000 | 20000 |
| 2.822% Series due 2027 | 25000 | 25000 |
| 6.650% Series due 2027 | 19700 | 19700 |
| 6.650% Series due 2028 | 10000 | 10000 |
| 3.141% Series due 2029 | 50000 | 50000 |
| 7.740% Series due 2030 | 20000 | 20000 |
| 7.850% Series due 2030 | 10000 | 10000 |
| 5.820% Series due 2032 | 30000 | 30000 |
| 5.660% Series due 2033 | 40000 | 40000 |
| 5.750% Series due 2033 | 100000 | 100000 |
| 5.180% Series due 2034 | 80000 | 80000 |
| 5.250% Series due 2035 | 10000 | 10000 |
| 5.130% Series due 2036 | 75000 |  |
| 5.230% Series due 2038 | 50000 | 50000 |
| 4.000% Series due 2042 | 50000 | 50000 |
| 4.136% Series due 2046 | 40000 | 40000 |
| 3.685% Series due 2047 | 75000 | 75000 |
| 4.110% Series due 2048 | 50000 | 50000 |
| 3.869% Series due 2049 | 90000 | 90000 |
| 3.600% Series due 2050 | 150000 | 150000 |
| 3.078% Series due 2051 | 130000 | 130000 |
| 4.780% Series due 2052 | 140000 | 140000 |
| 5.430% Series due 2053 | 100000 | 100000 |
| 5.900% Series due 2055 | 125000 |  |
| Long-term debt, gross | 1544700 | 1374700 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Less: current maturities | 55000 | 30000 |
| Total long-term debt | $1489700 | $1344700 |

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The following table presents debt outstanding at NW Holdings excluding NW Natural, which is presented above, as of December 31:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 |
| **NW Holdings** |  |  |
| <u>Unsecured Senior Bonds:</u> |  |  |
| 5.780% Series due 2028 | $100000 | $100000 |
| 5.840% Series due 2029 | 50000 | 50000 |
| 5.520% Series due 2029 | 90000 | 90000 |
| 5.860% Series due 2034 | 45000 | 45000 |
| Term Loan due 2026 | 50000 |  |
| <u>Junior Subordinated Debentures:</u> |  |  |
| 7.00%Series due 2055 | 325000 |  |
| Long-term debt, gross | 660000 | 285000 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Less: current maturities | 50000 |  |
| Total NW Holdings long-term debt | $610000 | $285000 |
| **SiEnergy**<sup>(1)</sup> |  |  |
| <u>Unsecured Senior Bonds:</u> |  |  |
| 4.86% Series due 2030 | $50000 | $— |
| 5.42% Series due 2035 | 40000 |  |
| 6.04% Series due 2055 | 95000 |  |
| Long-term debt, gross | 185000 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Less: current maturities |  |  |
| Total SiEnergy long-term debt | $185000 | $— |
| **NWN Water** |  |  |
| Water term loan, fixed rate of 3.8%, due 2026<sup>(3)</sup> | $55000 | $55000 |
| Other water debt<sup>(2)</sup> | 4047 | 6052 |
| Long-term debt, gross | 59047 | 61052 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Less: current maturities | 55703 | 795 |
| Total Water long-term debt | $3344 | $60257 |

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<sup>(1)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>Prior year comparative outstanding debt is not provided for SiEnergy as it was acquired by NW Holdings January 7, 2025.

<sup>(2)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>Other water debt consists of immaterial loans at local water entities.

<sup>(3)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>NW Holdings guarantees the debt of its wholly-owned subsidiary, NWN Water.

**<u>Fair Value of Long-Term Debt</u>**

NW Holdings' and NW Natural's outstanding debt does not trade in active markets. The fair value of debt is estimated using the value of outstanding debt at natural gas distribution companies with similar credit ratings, terms, and remaining maturities to NW Holdings' and NW Natural's debt that actively trade in public markets. These valuations are based on Level 2 inputs as defined in the fair value hierarchy. See Note 2.

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The following table provides an estimate of the fair value of long-term debt, including current maturities of long-term debt, using market prices in effect on the valuation date:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | December 31, | December 31, |
| *In millions* | 2025 | 2024 |
| **NW Holdings:** |  |  |
| Gross long-term debt | $2448.7 | $1720.8 |
| Unamortized debt issuance costs | (15.9) | (10.6) |
| Carrying amount | 2432.8 | 1710.2 |
| Estimated fair value<sup>(1)</sup> | 2317.1 | 1542.2 |
| **NW Natural:** |  |  |
| Gross long-term debt | $1544.7 | $1374.7 |
| Unamortized debt issuance costs | (9.8) | (9.3) |
| Carrying amount | 1534.9 | 1365.4 |
| Estimated fair value<sup>(1)</sup> | 1383.1 | 1191.2 |
| <sup>(1)</sup> Estimated fair value does not include unamortized debt issuance costs. |  |  |

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***10. PENSION AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT COSTS***

NW Natural maintains a qualified non-contributory defined benefit pension plan (Pension Plan) for all eligible employees, non-qualified supplemental pension plans for eligible executive officers and other key employees, and other postretirement employee benefit plans. NW Natural also has a qualified defined contribution plan (Retirement K Savings Plan) for all eligible employees. The Pension Plan and Retirement K Savings Plan have plan assets, which are held in qualified trusts to fund retirement benefits.

Effective January 1, 2007 and 2010, the Pension Plan and postretirement benefits for non-union employees and union employees, respectively, were closed to new participants. Non-union and union employees hired or re-hired after December 31, 2006 and 2009, respectively, and employees of NW Natural subsidiaries are provided an enhanced Retirement K Savings Plan benefit.

The following table provides a reconciliation of the changes in NW Natural's benefit obligations and fair value of plan assets, as applicable, for NW Natural's pension and other postretirement benefit plans, excluding the Retirement K Savings Plan, and a summary of the funded status and amounts recognized in NW Holdings' and NW Natural's consolidated balance sheets as of December 31:

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | Postretirement Benefit Plans | Postretirement Benefit Plans | Postretirement Benefit Plans | Postretirement Benefit Plans |
| | Pension Benefits | Pension Benefits | Other Benefits | Other Benefits |
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 | 2025 | 2024 |
| Reconciliation of change in benefit obligation: |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Obligation at January 1 | $405552 | $425450 | $22031 | $21467 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Service cost | 3505 | 3837 | 97 | 90 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interest cost | 21397 | 21466 | 1152 | 1035 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net actuarial (loss) gain | 1636 | (18215) | 1292 | 1421 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Benefits paid | (35396) | (26986) | (2009) | (1982) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Obligation at December 31 | 396694 | 405552 | 22563 | 22031 |
| Reconciliation of change in plan assets: |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fair value of plan assets at January 1 | 284148 | 283444 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Actual return on plan assets | 31633 | 4892 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Employer contributions | 21942 | 22798 | 2009 | 1982 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Benefits paid | (35396) | (26986) | (2009) | (1982) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fair value of plan assets at December 31 | 302327 | 284148 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Funded status at December 31 | $(94367) | $(121404) | $(22563) | $(22031) |

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At December 31, 2025, the net liability (benefit obligations less market value of plan assets) for the Pension Plan decreased $17.3 million compared to 2024. The decrease in the net pension liability is primarily due to the $1.0 million increase to the pension benefit obligation and the $18.3 million increase in plan assets. The liability for non-qualified plans decreased $9.8 million, and the liability for other postretirement benefits increased $0.5 million in 2025.

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NW Natural's Pension Plan had a projected benefit obligation of $373.8 million and $372.8 million at December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively, and fair values of plan assets of $302.3 million and $284.1 million, respectively. The plan had an accumulated benefit obligation of $348.1 million and $343.7 million at December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.

The following table presents amounts realized through regulatory assets or in other comprehensive loss (income) for the years ended December 31:

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| | | | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | Regulatory Assets | Regulatory Assets | Regulatory Assets | Regulatory Assets | Regulatory Assets | Regulatory Assets | Other Comprehensive Loss (Income) | Other Comprehensive Loss (Income) | Other Comprehensive Loss (Income) |
| | Pension Benefits | Pension Benefits | Pension Benefits | Other Postretirement Benefits | Other Postretirement Benefits | Other Postretirement Benefits | Pension Benefits | Pension Benefits | Pension Benefits |
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Net actuarial (gain) loss | $(7727) | $933 | $10318 | $1293 | $1421 | $2208 | $(729) | $(290) | $1630 |
| Settlement loss |  |  |  |  |  |  | (1442) |  |  |
| Amortization of: |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Prior service credit |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Actuarial loss | (8716) | (5049) |  | (78) | (8) |  | (761) | (845) | (713) |
| Total | $(16443) | $(4116) | $10318 | $1215 | $1413 | $2208 | $(2932) | $(1135) | $917 |

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The following table presents amounts recognized in regulatory assets and accumulated other comprehensive loss (AOCL) at December 31:

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| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | Regulatory Assets | Regulatory Assets | Regulatory Assets | Regulatory Assets | AOCL | AOCL |
| | Pension Benefits | Pension Benefits | Other Postretirement Benefits | Other Postretirement Benefits | Pension Benefits | Pension Benefits |
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 | 2025 | 2024 | 2025 | 2024 |
| Net actuarial loss (gain) | $91999 | $108441 | $4009 | $2794 | $6453 | $9386 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | $91999 | $108441 | $4009 | $2794 | $6453 | $9386 |

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The following table presents amounts recognized by NW Holdings and NW Natural in AOCL and the changes in AOCL related to NW Natural's non-qualified employee benefit plans:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | Year ended December 31, | Year ended December 31, |
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 |
| Beginning balance | $(7052) | $(7237) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amounts reclassified to AOCL | 911 | (439) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amounts reclassified from AOCL: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amortization of actuarial losses | 761 | 794 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Loss from plan settlement | 1442 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total reclassifications before tax | 3114 | 355 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tax (expense) benefit | (767) | (170) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total reclassifications for the period | 2347 | 185 |
| Ending balance | $(4705) | $(7052) |

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In 2026, NW Natural will amortize $8.9 million in estimated costs from regulatory assets to net periodic benefit costs.

The assumed discount rates for NW Natural's Pension Plan and other postretirement benefit plans were determined independently based on the FTSE Above Median Curve (discount rate curve), which uses high quality corporate bonds rated AA- or higher by S&P or Aa3 or higher by Moody's. The discount rate curve was applied to match the estimated cash flows in each of the plans to reflect the timing and amount of expected future benefit payments for these plans.

The assumed expected long-term rate of return on plan assets for the Pension Plan was developed using a weighted-average of the expected returns for the target asset portfolio. In developing the expected long-term rate of return assumption, consideration was given to the historical performance of each asset class in which the plan's assets are invested and the target asset allocation for plan assets.

The investment strategy and policies for Pension Plan assets held in the retirement trust fund were approved by the NW Natural Retirement Committee, which is composed of senior management with the assistance of an outside investment consultant. The policies set forth the guidelines and objectives governing the investment of plan assets. Plan assets are invested for total return with appropriate consideration for liquidity, portfolio risk, and return expectations. All investments are expected to satisfy the prudent investments rule under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. The approved asset classes may include cash and short-term investments, fixed income, common stock and convertible securities, absolute and real return strategies, and real estate. Plan assets may be invested in separately managed accounts or in commingled or mutual funds. Investment re-balancing takes place periodically as needed, or when significant cash flows occur, in order to maintain the allocation of assets within the stated target ranges. The retirement trust fund for the Pension Plan is not currently invested in NW Holdings or NW Natural securities.

The following table presents the Pension Plan asset target allocation at December 31, 2025:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| Asset Category | Target Allocation |
| Long government/credit | 40% |
| U.S. large cap equity | 21 |
| Global equity | 15 |
| Developed non-U.S. equity | 11 |
| Emerging market equity | 5 |
| High yield bonds | 4 |
| Real estate investment trusts | 2 |
| Emerging market debt | 2 |

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Non-qualified supplemental defined benefit plan obligations were $22.9 million and $32.7 million at December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. These plans are not subject to regulatory deferral, and the changes in actuarial gains and losses, prior

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service costs, and transition assets or obligations are recognized in AOCL, net of tax until they are amortized as a component of net periodic benefit cost. These are unfunded, non-qualified plans with no plan assets; however, a significant portion of the obligations is indirectly funded with company and trust-owned life insurance and other assets.

Other postretirement benefit plans are unfunded plans but are subject to regulatory deferral. The actuarial gains and losses, prior service costs, and transition assets or obligations for these plans are recognized as a regulatory asset.

Net periodic benefit costs consist of service costs, interest costs, the expected returns on plan assets, and the amortization of gains and losses and prior service costs. The gains and losses are the sum of the actuarial and asset gains and losses throughout the year and are amortized over the average remaining service period of active participants. The asset gains and losses are based in part on a market-related valuation of assets. The market-related valuation reflects differences between expected returns and actual investment returns with the differences recognized over a two-year period from the year in which they occur, thereby reducing year-to-year net periodic benefit cost volatility.

The service cost component of net periodic benefit cost for NW Natural pension and other postretirement benefit plans is recognized in operations and maintenance expense in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. The other non-service cost components are recognized in other income (expense), net in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. The following table provides the components of net periodic benefit cost for NW Natural's pension and other postretirement benefit plans for the years ended December 31:

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| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | Pension Benefits | Pension Benefits | Pension Benefits | Other Postretirement Benefits | Other Postretirement Benefits | Other Postretirement Benefits |
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Service cost | $3505 | $3837 | $3922 | $97 | $90 | $105 |
| Interest cost | 21397 | 21466 | 21018 | 1152 | 1035 | 1067 |
| Expected return on plan assets | (21745) | (23749) | (25723) |  |  |  |
| Amortization of net actuarial loss | 9477 | 5894 | 713 | 78 | 8 |  |
| Settlement expense | 1442 |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net periodic cost (benefit) | 14076 | 7448 | (70) | 1327 | 1133 | 1172 |
| Amount allocated to construction | (1944) | (1874) | (1684) | (39) | (36) | (36) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net periodic cost (benefit) charged to expense | 12132 | 5574 | (1754) | 1288 | 1097 | 1136 |
| Amortization of regulatory balancing account | 7131 | 7131 | 7131 |  |  |  |
| Net amount charged to expense | $19263 | $12705 | $5377 | $1288 | $1097 | $1136 |

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Net periodic benefit costs are reduced by amounts capitalized to NWN Gas Utility plant. In addition, a certain amount of net periodic benefit costs were recorded to the regulatory balancing account, representing net periodic pension expense for the Pension Plan above the amount set in rates, as approved by the OPUC, from 2011 through October 31, 2018. Total amortization of the regulatory balancing account of $7.1 million was recognized in each of the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024, of which $2.6 million was charged to operations and maintenance expense and $4.5 million was charged to other income (expense).

The following table provides the assumptions used in measuring periodic benefit costs and benefit obligations for the years ended December 31:

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| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | Pension Benefits | Pension Benefits | Pension Benefits | Other Postretirement Benefits | Other Postretirement Benefits | Other Postretirement Benefits |
| | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Assumptions for net periodic benefit cost: |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Weighted-average discount rate | 5.57% | 4.96% | 5.14% | 5.53% | 4.98% | 5.19% |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Rate of increase in compensation | 4.80%-5.05% | 4.00%-6.00% | 4.00%-5.00% | n/a | n/a | n/a |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Expected long-term rate of return | 7.50% | 7.50% | 7.50% | n/a | n/a | n/a |
| Assumptions for year-end funded status: |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Weighted-average discount rate | 5.35% | 5.56% | 4.98% | 5.28% | 5.53% | 4.98% |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Rate of increase in compensation<sup>(1)</sup> | 4.80%-5.05% | 4.80%-5.05% | 4.00%-4.73% | n/a | n/a | n/a |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Expected long-term rate of return | 7.50% | 7.50% | 7.50% | n/a | n/a | n/a |

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<sup>(1)</sup> Rate assumption ranges from 4.5% to 5.1% in 2026 and thereafter.

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The assumed annual increase in health care cost trend rates used in measuring other postretirement benefits as of December 31, 2025 was 7.50%. These trend rates apply to both medical and prescription drugs. Medical costs and prescription drugs are assumed to decrease gradually each year to a rate of 4.00% by 2032.

Assumed health care cost trend rates can have a significant effect on the amounts reported for the health care plans; however, other postretirement benefit plans have a cap on the amount of costs reimbursable by NW Natural.

Mortality assumptions are reviewed annually and are updated for material changes as necessary. In 2025, mortality rate assumptions remained consistent with 2024, using Pri-2012 mortality tables using scale MP-2021.

The following table provides information regarding employer contributions and benefit payments for NW Natural's Pension Plan, non-qualified pension plans, and other postretirement benefit plans for the years ended December 31, and estimated future contributions and payments:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| *In thousands* | Pension Benefits | Other Benefits |
| Employer Contributions: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2024 | $22798 | $1982 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2025 | 21942 | 2009 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2026 (estimated) | 19018 | 2426 |
| Benefit Payments: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2023 | $27970 | $1793 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2024 | 26986 | 1982 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2025 | 35396 | 2009 |
| Estimated Future Benefit Payments: | Estimated Future Benefit Payments: |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2026 | $27629 | $2426 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2027 | 27994 | 1848 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2028 | 28308 | 1842 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2029 | 28541 | 1800 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2030 | 28846 | 1819 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2031-2035 | 146460 | 8616 |

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**<u>Employer Contributions to Company-Sponsored Defined Benefit Pension Plan</u>**

NW Natural makes contributions to its Pension Plan based on actuarial assumptions and estimates, tax regulations, and funding requirements under federal law. The American Rescue Plan, which was signed into law on March 11, 2021, includes a provision for pension relief that extends the amortization period for required contributions from 7 to 15 years and provides for the stabilization of interest rates used to calculate future required contributions. NW Natural made $11.3 million of cash contributions to its Pension Plan for 2025.

The Pension Plan was underfunded by $71.5 million at December 31, 2025. During 2026, NW Natural expects to make cash contributions of approximately $16.7 million to the Pension Plan.

**<u>Multiemployer Pension Plan</u>**

In addition to the NW Natural-sponsored Pension Plan presented above, prior to 2014 NW Natural contributed to a multiemployer pension plan for its NWN Gas Utility union employees known as the Western States Office and Professional Employees International Union Pension Fund (Western States Plan). That plan's employer identification number is 94-6076144. Effective December 22, 2013, NW Natural withdrew from the plan, which was a noncash transaction. Vested participants will receive all benefits accrued through the date of withdrawal. As the plan was underfunded at the time of withdrawal, NW Natural was assessed a withdrawal liability of $8.3 million, plus interest, which requires NW Natural to pay $0.6 million each year to the plan for 20 years beginning in July 2014. The cost of the withdrawal liability was deferred to a regulatory account on the balance sheet.

Payments were $0.6 million for 2025, and as of December 31, 2025, the liability balance was $4.1 million. For 2024 and 2023, contributions to the plan were $0.6 million each year, which was approximately 6% to 17% of the total contributions to the plan by all employer participants in those years.

**<u>Defined Contribution Plan</u>**

NW Natural's Retirement K Savings Plan is a qualified defined contribution plan under Internal Revenue Code Sections 401(a) and 401(k). NW Natural contributions totaled $12.5 million, $11.1 million, and $10.4 million for 2025, 2024, and 2023, respectively.

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**<u>Deferred Compensation Plans</u>**

NW Natural's supplemental deferred compensation plans for eligible officers and senior managers are non-qualified plans. These plans are designed to enhance the retirement savings of employees and to assist them in strengthening their financial security by providing an incentive to save and invest regularly.

**<u>Fair Value</u>**

Below is a description of the valuation methodologies used for assets measured at fair value. In cases where NW Natural's Pension Plan is invested through a collective trust fund or mutual fund, the fund's market value is utilized. Market values for investments directly owned are also utilized.

**U.S. EQUITY.** These are non-published net asset value (NAV) assets. The non-published NAV assets consist of commingled trusts where NAV is not published but the investment can be readily disposed of at NAV or market value. The underlying investments in this asset class includes investments primarily in U.S. common stocks.

**INTERNATIONAL/GLOBAL EQUITY.** These are Level 1 and non-published NAV assets. The Level 1 asset is a mutual fund, and the non-published NAV assets consist of commingled trusts where the NAV/unit price is not published, but the investment can be readily disposed of at the NAV/unit price. The mutual fund has a readily determinable fair value, including a published NAV, and the commingled trusts are valued at unit price. This asset class includes investments primarily in foreign equity common stocks.

**LIABILITY HEDGING.** These are non-published NAV assets. The non-published NAV assets consist of commingled trusts where NAV is not published but the investment can be readily disposed of at NAV or market value. The underlying investments in this asset class include long duration fixed income investments primarily in U.S. treasuries, U.S. government agencies, municipal securities, mortgage-backed securities, asset-backed securities, as well as U.S. and international investment-grade corporate bonds.

**OPPORTUNISTIC.** These are non-published NAV assets. The non-published NAV assets consist of commingled trusts where NAV is not published but the investment can be readily disposed of at NAV or market value. The underlying investments in this asset class include real estate investment trust equities, high yield bonds, floating rate debt, emerging market debt and a commodity index pool.

**CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS.** These are non-published NAV assets. The non-published NAV assets represent mutual funds without published NAV's but the investment can be readily disposed of at the NAV. The mutual funds are valued at the NAV of the shares held by the plan at the valuation date.

The preceding valuation methods may produce a fair value calculation that is not indicative of net realizable value or reflective of future fair values. Although we believe these valuation methods are appropriate and consistent with other market participants, the use of different methodologies or assumptions to determine the fair value of certain investments could result in a different fair value measurement at the reporting date.

Commingled trust investments are subject to a redemption notice period of five business days. There were no unfunded commitments for Plan investments as of December 31, 2025 and 2024.

Investment securities are exposed to various financial risks including interest rate, market, and credit risks. Due to the level of risk associated with certain investment securities, it is reasonably possible that changes in the values of NW Natural's investment securities will occur in the near term and such changes could materially affect NW Natural's investment account balances and the amounts reported as plan assets available for benefit payments.

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The following tables present the fair value of NW Natural's Pension Plan assets, including outstanding receivables and liabilities, of NW Natural's retirement trust fund:

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| *In thousands* | December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2025 |
| Investments | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Non-Published NAV<sup>(1)</sup> | Total |
| US equity | $422 | $— | $— | $64450 | $64872 |
| International / Global equity | 16961 |  |  | 87742 | 104703 |
| Liability hedging |  |  |  | 112762 | 112762 |
| Opportunistic | 2259 |  |  | 14478 | 16737 |
| Cash and cash equivalents |  |  |  | 3253 | 3253 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total investments | $19642 | $— | $— | $282685 | $302327 |
|  | December 31, 2024 | December 31, 2024 | December 31, 2024 | December 31, 2024 | December 31, 2024 |
| Investments | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Non-Published NAV<sup>(1)</sup> | Total |
| US equity | $284 | $— | $— | $68160 | $68444 |
| International / Global equity |  |  |  | 86498 | 86498 |
| Liability hedging |  |  |  | 108680 | 108680 |
| Opportunistic | 2269 |  |  | 15532 | 17801 |
| Cash and cash equivalents | 27 |  |  | 2698 | 2725 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total investments | $2580 | $— | $— | $281568 | $284148 |
|  |  |  |  | December 31, | December 31, |
|  |  |  |  | 2025 | 2024 |
| Receivables: |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Accrued interest and dividend income |  |  |  | $1 | $2 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Due from broker for securities sold |  |  |  | 16872 | 7033 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total receivables |  |  |  | 16873 | 7035 |
| Liabilities: |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Due to broker for securities purchased |  |  |  | (16872) | (7032) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total investment in retirement trust |  |  |  | $302328 | $284151 |

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<sup>(1)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>The fair value for these investments is determined using Net Asset Value per share (NAV) as of December 31, as a practical expedient, and therefore they are not classified within the fair value hierarchy. These investments primarily consist of institutional investment products, for which the NAV is generally not publicly available.

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***11. INCOME TAX***

The following tables provide a reconciliation between income taxes calculated at the statutory federal tax rate and the provision for income taxes reflected in the NW Holdings and NW Natural statements of comprehensive income or loss for December 31:

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| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | NW Holdings | NW Holdings | NW Holdings | NW Holdings | NW Holdings | NW Holdings |
| *in thousands* | 2025 | 2025 | 2024 | 2024 | 2023 | 2023 |
| U.S. Federal Statutory Tax Rate | $32482 | 21.0% | $23088 | 21.0% | $26508 | 21.0% |
| State and Local Income Taxes, Net of Federal Income Tax Effect (a) | 11240 | 7.3% | 9931 | 9.0% | 10875 | 8.6% |
| Tax Credits | (747) | (0.5)% | (102) | (0.1)% | (140) | (0.1)% |
| Nontaxable or Nondeductible Items |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nondeductible compensation (Sec. 162(m)) | 1685 | 1.1% | 780 | 0.7% | 385 | 0.3% |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other nontaxable or nondeductible items | (960) | (0.6)% | (444) | (0.4)% | (1290) | (1.0)% |
| Other |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Differences required to be flowed-through by regulatory commissions | (2341) | (1.5)% | (2182) | (2.0)% | (3976) | (3.1)% |
| Total provision for income taxes and Effective Tax Rate | $41359 | 26.7% | $31071 | 28.3% | $32362 | 25.6% |
| (a) State taxes in Oregon made up the majority (greater than 50 percent) of the tax effect in this category. | (a) State taxes in Oregon made up the majority (greater than 50 percent) of the tax effect in this category. | (a) State taxes in Oregon made up the majority (greater than 50 percent) of the tax effect in this category. | (a) State taxes in Oregon made up the majority (greater than 50 percent) of the tax effect in this category. | (a) State taxes in Oregon made up the majority (greater than 50 percent) of the tax effect in this category. | (a) State taxes in Oregon made up the majority (greater than 50 percent) of the tax effect in this category. | (a) State taxes in Oregon made up the majority (greater than 50 percent) of the tax effect in this category. |

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| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | NW Natural | NW Natural | NW Natural | NW Natural | NW Natural | NW Natural |
| *in thousands* | 2025 | 2025 | 2024 | 2024 | 2023 | 2023 |
| U.S. Federal Statutory Tax Rate | $36024 | 21.0% | $25964 | 21.0% | $29486 | 21.0% |
| State and Local Income Taxes, Net of Federal Income Tax Effect (a) | 13546 | 7.9% | 10611 | 8.6% | 11510 | 8.2% |
| Tax Credits | (747) | (0.4)% | (102) | (0.1)% | (140) | (0.1)% |
| Nontaxable or Nondeductible Items |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nondeductible compensation (Sec. 162(m)) | 1655 | 1.0% | 780 | 0.6% | 385 | 0.3% |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other nontaxable or nondeductible items | (848) | (0.5)% | (457) | (0.3)% | (1597) | (1.2)% |
| Other |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Differences required to be flowed-through by regulatory commissions | (2308) | (1.3)% | (2178) | (1.8)% | (3972) | (2.8)% |
| Total provision for income taxes and Effective Tax Rate | $47322 | 27.6% | $34618 | 28.0% | $35672 | 25.4% |
| (a) State taxes in Oregon made up the majority (greater than 50 percent) of the tax effect in this category. | (a) State taxes in Oregon made up the majority (greater than 50 percent) of the tax effect in this category. | (a) State taxes in Oregon made up the majority (greater than 50 percent) of the tax effect in this category. | (a) State taxes in Oregon made up the majority (greater than 50 percent) of the tax effect in this category. | (a) State taxes in Oregon made up the majority (greater than 50 percent) of the tax effect in this category. | (a) State taxes in Oregon made up the majority (greater than 50 percent) of the tax effect in this category. | (a) State taxes in Oregon made up the majority (greater than 50 percent) of the tax effect in this category. |

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The NW Holdings and NW Natural effective income tax rates for 2025 compared to 2024 decreased 1.6 and 0.4 percentage points at NW Holdings and NW Natural, respectively. At NW Holdings and NW Natural, the increase in income tax expense is primarily due to higher pre-tax income in the current period compared to the prior year, and the lower effective tax rate is primarily the result of state income tax expense growing at a different rate than pretax income.

The NW Holdings and NW Natural effective income tax rates for 2024 compared to 2023 increased 2.7 and 2.6 percentage points at NW Holdings and NW Natural, respectively. The increase in effective tax rate is primarily related to lower regulatory flow-through. The decrease in income tax expense is primarily due to lower pre-tax income in the current period compared to the prior year.

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The provision for current and deferred income taxes consists of the following at December 31:

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| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | NW Holdings | NW Holdings | NW Holdings | NW Natural | NW Natural | NW Natural |
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Current |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Federal | $413 | $10489 | $13496 | $3349 | $15996 | $20512 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;State | 5473 | 9216 | 9901 | 5946 | 11078 | 12304 |
| Total current income taxes | 5886 | 19705 | 23397 | 9295 | 27074 | 32816 |
| Deferred |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Federal | 26720 | 8012 | 5100 | 26827 | 5191 | 591 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;State | 8753 | 3354 | 3865 | 11200 | 2353 | 2265 |
| Total deferred income taxes | 35473 | 11366 | 8965 | 38027 | 7544 | 2856 |
| Income tax provision | $41359 | $31071 | $32362 | $47322 | $34618 | $35672 |

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The following table summarizes the tax effect of significant items comprising NW Holdings and NW Natural's deferred income tax balances recorded at December 31:

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | NW Holdings | NW Holdings | NW Natural | NW Natural |
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 | 2025 | 2024 |
| Deferred tax liabilities: |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Plant and property | $391216 | $370072 | $379653 | $357944 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Leases receivable | 33647 | 34477 | 33647 | 34477 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pension and postretirement obligations | 29550 | 26116 | 29550 | 26116 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Income tax regulatory asset | 11697 | 11768 | 11357 | 11768 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lease right of use assets | 20513 | 20542 | 19960 | 20407 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other intangible assets | 7465 | 3388 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other | 12957 |  | 14188 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total deferred income tax liabilities | 507045 | 466363 | 488355 | 450712 |
| Deferred income tax assets: |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Income tax regulatory liability | 44135 | 45570 | 43900 | 45320 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lease liabilities | 20575 | 20585 | 20017 | 20449 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net operating losses and credits carried forward | 6692 | 105 | 169 | 44 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other |  | 5457 |  | 4716 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Total deferred income tax assets | 71402 | 71717 | 64086 | 70529 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Deferred investment tax credits | 1824 | 2503 | 1824 | 2503 |
| Total net deferred income tax liabilities | $437467 | $397149 | $426093 | $382686 |

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At December 31, 2025 and 2024, regulatory income tax assets of $3.6 million and $5.8 million, respectively, were recorded by NW Natural, a portion of which is recorded in current assets. These regulatory income tax assets primarily represent future rate recovery of deferred tax liabilities, resulting from differences in NWN Gas Utility plant financial statement and tax bases and NWN Gas Utility plant removal costs, which were previously flowed through for rate making purposes and to take into account the additional future taxes, which will be generated by that recovery. These deferred tax liabilities, and the associated regulatory income tax assets, are currently being recovered through customer rates. At December 31, 2025 and 2024, regulatory income tax assets of $7.8 million and $6.0 million, respectively, were recorded by NW Natural, representing future recovery of deferred tax liabilities resulting from the equity portion of AFUDC.

At December 31, 2025 and 2024, deferred tax assets of $43.6 million and $44.9 million, respectively, were recorded by NW Natural representing the future income tax benefit associated with the excess deferred income tax regulatory liability recorded as a result of the lower federal corporate income tax rate provided for by the TCJA. At December 31, 2025 and 2024, regulatory liability balances representing the benefit of the change in deferred taxes as a result of the TCJA of $164.6 million and $169.5 million, respectively, were recorded by NW Natural.

NW Holdings and NW Natural assess the available positive and negative evidence to estimate if sufficient taxable income will be generated to utilize their respective existing deferred tax assets. Based upon this assessment, NW Holdings and NW Natural determined that it is more likely than not that all of their respective deferred tax assets recorded as of December 31, 2025 will be realized.

The Company estimates it has net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards of $24.8 million for federal taxes and $22.3 million for state taxes at December 31, 2025. The federal NOLs do not expire and we anticipate fully utilizing the state NOL carryforward

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balances before they begin to expire in 2036. California alternative minimum tax (AMT) credits of $56 thousand are also available. The AMT credits do not expire.

Uncertain tax positions are accounted for in accordance with accounting standards that require an assessment of the anticipated settlement outcome of material uncertain tax positions taken in a prior year, or planned to be taken in the current year. Until such positions are sustained, the uncertain tax benefits resulting from such positions would not be recognized. No reserves for uncertain tax positions were recorded as of December 31, 2025, 2024, or 2023.

The federal income tax returns for tax years 2021 and earlier are closed by statute. The IRS Compliance Assurance Process (CAP) examination of the 2022 and 2023 tax years have been completed. There were no material changes to these returns as filed. The 2024 and 2025 tax years are currently under IRS CAP examination. The 2026 CAP application has been filed. Under the CAP program, NW Holdings and NW Natural work with the IRS to identify and resolve material tax matters before the tax return is filed each year.

As of December 31, 2025, income tax years 2021 through 2024 remain open for examination by the states of California and Texas. Income tax years 2022 through 2024 are open for examination by the states of Arizona, Idaho, Nebraska, and Oregon. Income tax year 2024 is open for examination by the state of Florida.

***12. PROPERTY, PLANT, AND EQUIPMENT***

The following table sets forth the major classifications of property, plant, and equipment and accumulated depreciation of continuing operations at December 31:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 |
| **NW Holdings:** |  |  |
| Plant in service | $5468170 | $4769565 |
| Construction work in progress | 172265 | 149354 |
| Less: Accumulated depreciation | 1288422 | 1246592 |
| Total property, plant, and equipment, net | $4352013 | $3672327 |
| Capital expenditures in accrued liabilities | $57762 | $26610 |
| **NW Natural:** |  |  |
| Plant in service | $4879816 | $4577955 |
| Construction work in progress | 120513 | 128764 |
| Less: Accumulated depreciation | 1256289 | 1222413 |
| Total property, plant, and equipment, net | $3744040 | $3484306 |
| Capital expenditures in accrued liabilities | $33582 | $24625 |

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<u>NW Natural</u>

NWN Gas Utility balances primarily consist of transmission and distribution plant, gas storage facilities, general plant and other fixed assets. In October 2024, the OPUC issued an order concluding the NW Natural 2024 Oregon rate case. The OPUC ordered a regulatory disallowance related to $13.7 million of undepreciated line extension costs, which resulted in a reduction of NWN Gas Utility plant in service and a non-cash, pre-tax charge that was recorded as operations and maintenance expense in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income in the fourth quarter of 2024.

The weighted average depreciation rate for NWN Gas Utility assets was 3.1% in 2025, 2.9% in 2024, and 3.0% 2023. The weighted average depreciation rate for assets not related to NWN Gas Utility was 1.9% in 2025, 1.7% in 2024 and 1.7% in 2023.

Accumulated depreciation does not include the accumulated provision for asset removal costs of $561.6 million and $526.5 million at December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. These accrued asset removal costs are reflected on the balance sheet as regulatory liabilities. See Note 2.

<u>NW Holdings</u>

Plant balances include long-lived assets associated with SiEnergy and water and wastewater and operations.

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***13. INVESTMENTS***

Investments include gas reserves, financial investments in life insurance policies, and equity method investments. The following table summarizes other investments at December 31:

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | NW Holdings | NW Holdings | NW Natural | NW Natural |
| *Thousands* | 2025 | 2024 | 2025 | 2024 |
| Investments in life insurance policies | $45606 | $45772 | $45606 | $45772 |
| Investments in gas reserves, non-current | 15443 | 18166 | 15443 | 18166 |
| Investment in unconsolidated affiliates | 19627 | 18298 |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Total other investments | $80676 | $82236 | $61049 | $63938 |

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**<u>Investment in Life Insurance Policies</u>**

NW Natural has invested in key person life insurance contracts to provide an indirect funding vehicle for certain long-term employee and director benefit plan liabilities. The amount in the above table is reported at cash surrender value, net of policy loans.

**<u>NW Natural Gas Reserves</u>**

NW Natural has invested $188 million through the gas reserves program in the Jonah Field located in Wyoming as of December 31, 2025. Gas reserves are stated at cost, net of regulatory amortization, with the associated deferred tax benefits of $1.8 million and $2.6 million, which are recorded as liabilities in the December 31, 2025 and 2024 consolidated balance sheets, respectively. NW Natural's investment is included in NW Holdings' and NW Natural's consolidated balance sheets under other current assets and other investments (non-current portion) with the maximum loss exposure limited to the investment balance. The amount of gas reserves included in other current assets was $2.6 million and $2.7 million as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. The investment in gas reserves provides long-term price protection and acted to hedge the cost of gas for approximately 3% and 3% of NWN Gas Utility gas supplies for the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.

**<u>Investments in Unconsolidated Affiliates</u>**

In December 2021, NWN Water purchased a 37.3% ownership stake in Avion Water Company, Inc. (Avion Water), an investor-owned water utility for $14.5 million. NWN Water subsequently increased its ownership stake in Avion Water as follows:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| *In millions* | Amount | Ownership % |
| July 2022 | $1.0 | 40.3% |
| June 2023 | $1.0 | 43.1% |
| January 2024 | $1.0 | 45.6% |
| February 2025 | $1.0 | 47.9% |
| January 2026 | $1.0 | 50.0% |

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Avion Water operates in Bend, Oregon and the surrounding communities, serving approximately 17,000 customer connections and employing 40 people. The carrying value of the equity method investment is $9.8 million higher than the underlying equity in the net assets of the investee at December 31, 2025 due to equity method goodwill. NWN Water's share in the earnings (loss) of Avion Water is included in other income (expense), net.

***14. BUSINESS COMBINATIONS***

**<u>2025 Business Combinations</u>**

***SiEnergy Acquisition***

On January 7, 2025, NW Holdings acquired 100% of the outstanding membership interests of SiEnergy Operating, LLC from SiEnergy Capital Partners, LLC, an affiliate of Ridgewood Infrastructure. Total consideration included $271.1 million in cash and the assumption of $156.1 million of outstanding debt. SiEnergy owns a regulated natural gas distribution utility and a transmission utility. Excluding Pines, which was acquired June 2, 2025 and is described further below, SiEnergy currently serves approximately 82,000 customers in the greater metropolitan areas of Houston, Dallas, and Austin, Texas.

The SiEnergy acquisition met the criteria of a business combination, and as such a preliminary allocation of the consideration to the acquired net assets based on their estimated fair value as of the acquisition date was performed. In accordance with U.S. GAAP, the fair value determination involves management judgment in determining the significant estimates and assumptions used for net assets associated with SiEnergy. This allocation is considered preliminary as of December 31, 2025, as facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date may be discovered as we continue to integrate SiEnergy. As a result, subsequent adjustments to the preliminary valuation of tangible assets, regulatory assets and liabilities including asset removal costs, contract assets and liabilities, tax positions, and goodwill may be required. Any such adjustments are to be completed

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within the one-year measurement period. Acquisition costs totaling $2.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2024 and $5.3 million in the first quarter of 2025 were expensed as incurred. Acquisition costs related to SiEnergy are included in operations and maintenance expenses in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. The transaction aligns with NW Holdings' growth strategy and further expands the service territory in Texas.

Preliminary goodwill of $171.1 million was recognized from this acquisition. The goodwill recognized is attributable to SiEnergy's natural gas utility service territory, experienced workforce, and the strategic benefits expected from growth in its service territory. No intangible assets aside from goodwill were recognized. The amount of goodwill that is expected to be deductible for income tax purposes is $179.9 million.

The following table summarizes the consideration transferred and the amounts of identified assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of the acquisition date:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| *In thousands* |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**Fair value of consideration transferred:** |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Cash | $271087 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**Recognized amounts of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed:** |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Current assets | $16770 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Property, plant and equipment | 262750 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Non-current assets | 3872 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Current liabilities | (24962) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Non-current liabilities | (158397) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**Total identifiable net assets** | $100033 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**Goodwill** | $171054 |

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***Hughes Gas Resources, Inc. (Pines) Acquisition***

On June 2, 2025, a subsidiary of SiEnergy Operating, LLC (SiEnergy), a wholly-owned subsidiary of NW Holdings, acquired 100% of the outstanding equity interests of Hughes Gas Resources, Inc. from EPCOR USA Inc. for total consideration of $60.4 million in cash. Hughes currently serves approximately 7,000 customers in 12 communities northeast of Houston, Texas. Hughes further expands SiEnergy's regulated gas utility business in the southern United States. Following the closing of the acquisition, Hughes was rebranded as Pines.

The Pines acquisition met the criteria of a business combination, and as such, a preliminary allocation of the consideration to the acquired net assets based on their estimated fair value as of the acquisition date was performed. In accordance with U.S. GAAP, the fair value determination involves management judgment in determining the significant estimates and assumptions used for net assets associated with Pines. This allocation is considered preliminary as of December 31, 2025, as facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date may be discovered as we continue to integrate Pines. As a result, subsequent adjustments to the preliminary valuation of tangible assets, regulatory assets and liabilities including asset removal costs, contract assets and liabilities, tax positions, and goodwill may be required. Any such adjustments are to be completed within the one-year measurement period.

Preliminary goodwill of $14.7 million was recognized from this acquisition. The goodwill recognized is attributable to Pines' natural gas utility service territory, experienced workforce, and the strategic benefits expected from growth in the service territory. No intangible assets aside from goodwill were recognized. There is no goodwill expected to be deductible for tax purposes.

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The following table summarizes the consideration transferred and the amounts of identified assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of the acquisition date:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| *In thousands* |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**Fair value of consideration transferred:** |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Cash | $60436 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**Recognized amounts of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed:** |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Current assets | $2094 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Property, plant and equipment | 43594 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Non-current assets | 1591 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Current liabilities | (1441) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Non-current liabilities | (105) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**Total identifiable net assets** | $45733 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**Goodwill** | $14703 |

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***SiEnergy and Pines Pro Forma***

The table below presents the unaudited pro forma revenues and earnings of NW Holdings as if the SiEnergy and Pines acquisitions had occurred as of January 1, 2024:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | Twelve Months Ended December 31, | Twelve Months Ended December 31, |
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 |
| Operating revenues | $1296240 | $1211523 |
| Net income (loss) | $116970 | $61546 |

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The unaudited pro forma results presented above are for informational purposes only and are not necessarily indicative of the results that would have been achieved had the acquisition been completed on January 1, 2024, nor are they indicative of future results of operations of the combined company. Pro forma net income for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2025 and 2024 were adjusted to reflect the following:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• acquisition costs of $7.6 million incurred by NW Holdings' in the first quarter of 2025 and the fourth quarter of 2024, were reflected to have occurred in the first quarter 2024 and the first quarter 2025 costs were removed from the twelve months ended December 31, 2025 pro forma net income;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the capital structure for NW Holdings was modified to reflect the Junior Subordinated Debentures issued in March 2025 to represent the ongoing capital structure and reflects the issuance to have occurred on January first of each respective period;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the results of SiEnergy and Pines were adjusted to represent results as though they were owned as of January first of each respective period; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• all adjustments were net tax effected using a statutory tax rate of 26.5%.

The amount of SiEnergy and Pines revenues included in NW Holdings' consolidated statements of comprehensive income was $66.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2025.

The amount of SiEnergy and Pines net income included in NW Holdings' consolidated statements of comprehensive income was $13.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2025.

<u>Other 2025 Business Combinations</u>

During the fourth quarter of 2025, NW Water and its subsidiaries acquired the assets of Inline Utilities, LLC ("Inline") located in Texas, qualifying as a business combination. The fair value of the consideration transferred for this acquisition was $7.2 million, most of which was allocated to property, plant and equipment. As of December 31, 2025, preliminary goodwill of $1.0 million was recognized from this acquisition, including adjustments associated with deferred income taxes. The amount of goodwill that is expected to be deductible for income tax purposes is $4.3 million.

During the first quarter of 2025, NWN Water and its subsidiaries acquired the assets of two businesses qualifying as business combinations. The aggregate fair value of the consideration transferred for these acquisitions was $1.6 million, most of which was allocated to property, plant and equipment and included:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Everett Square, Inc. in Texas

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• ES Water Utility Consolidators, Inc. in Texas

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These transactions align with NW Holdings' water and wastewater sector strategy as it continues to expand its water and wastewater service territories.

**<u>2024 Business Combinations</u>**

During the year ended December 31, 2024, NWN Water completed the acquisition of Infrastructure Capital Holdings (ICH), which includes 100% of the membership interests of the following entities:

• Avimor Water Reclamation Company, LLC

• Bents Court Water Company, LLC

• Emerald Valley Wastewater Company, LLC

• OMSID Infrastructure Holdings Company, LLC

• Quigley Recycled Water Company, LLC

• Mines Park Infrastructure Holdings Company, LLC

• Puttman Infrastructure Services Company, LLC

• Lakeshore Water Company, LLC

• Seavey Loop Water Company, LLC

• South Coast Water Company, LLC

The acquisition added wastewater and recycled water customers across Oregon, Idaho and California. The acquisition-date fair value of the total consideration transferred was $29.9 million. The acquisition closed in two phases: the unregulated entities closed in September 2024, and the regulated entities closed in November 2024.

The ICH acquisition met the criteria of a business combination, and as such an allocation of the consideration to the acquired net assets based on their estimated fair value as of the acquisition date was performed. In accordance with U.S. GAAP, the fair value determination involves management judgment in determining the significant estimates and assumptions used for net assets associated with ICH. The allocation for both the unregulated and regulated entities is considered final as of December 31, 2025.

Goodwill of $18.5 million was recognized from this acquisition. The majority of the goodwill is attributable to ICH's unregulated operations. The goodwill recognized is attributable to ICH's water utility service territory, experienced workforce, and the strategic benefits for both the water utility and wastewater services expected from growth in its service territory. No intangible assets aside from goodwill were recognized. The amount of goodwill that is expected to be deductible for income tax purposes is $18.4 million.

The following table summarizes the consideration transferred and the amounts of identified assets and liabilities assumed as the acquisition date:

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| *In thousands* |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**Fair value of consideration transferred:** |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Cash | $29853 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Recognized amounts of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed: |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Current assets | $486 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Property, plant and equipment | 11130 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Non-current assets | 304 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Current liabilities | (503) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Non-current liabilities | (64) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**Total identifiable net assets** | $11353 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;**Goodwill** | $18500 |

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The amount of ICH earnings included in NW Holdings' consolidated statements of comprehensive income is $1.3 million and $2.9 million for the three months and year ended December 31, 2025, respectively. ICH revenue included in NW Holdings' consolidated statements of comprehensive income is $2.3 million and $6.3 million, for the three months and year ended December 31, 2025, respectively.

**<u>2023 Business Combinations</u>**

During the year ended December 31, 2023, NWN Water and its subsidiaries acquired the assets of five businesses qualifying as business combinations. The aggregate fair value of the total consideration transferred for these acquisitions was $22.8 million, most of which was preliminarily allocated to property, plant, and equipment, and goodwill. These transactions align with NW Holdings' water and wastewater sector strategy as it continues to expand its water and wastewater service territories and included:

• Pedersen Family, LLC in Washington

• King Water Corporation in Washington

**•** Rose Valley Water Company in Arizona

• Hiland Water in Oregon

• Truxton and Cerbat in Arizona

<u>Intangible Assets</u>

In connection with the acquisition of King Water Corporation, NWN Water recorded long-term customer relationship intangible assets totaling $2.6 million, which will be amortized over 24 years. There was $0.1 million and $0.2 million of amortization expense recognized in 2025 and 2024, respectively. Projected amortization expense at NW Holdings for customer relationship intangible assets for each of the next five years is $0.1 million in each period. The amortization will change in future periods if other intangible assets are acquired, impairments are recognized or the preliminary valuations as part of our purchase price allocation is refined.

**<u>Goodwill</u>**

NW Holdings allocates goodwill to reporting units based on the expected benefit from the business combination. We perform an annual impairment assessment of goodwill at the reporting unit level, or more frequently if events and circumstances indicate that goodwill might be impaired. An impairment loss is recognized if the carrying value of a reporting unit's goodwill exceeds its fair value.

As a result of all acquisitions completed, total goodwill was $370.8 million as of December 31, 2025 and $183.8 million as of December 31, 2024. Goodwill as of December 31, 2025, is attributable to gas utility, water and wastewater acquisitions, of which $185.7 million is included in the SiEnergy unit and $185.1 million is included in the NWN Water unit for segment reporting purposes. Goodwill as of December 31, 2024, is only attributable to water and wastewater acquisitions and is included in the NWN Water unit for segment reporting purposes. The annual impairment assessment of goodwill occurs in the fourth quarter of each year. There have been no impairments recognized to date.

***15. DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS***

<u>NW Natural</u>

NW Natural enters into financial derivative contracts primarily to hedge a portion of the NWN Gas Utility segment's natural gas sales requirements. These contracts include swaps, and forward contracts. These derivative financial instruments are primarily used to manage the price variability of natural gas, interest rates, and foreign currency.

NW Natural enters into these financial derivatives, up to prescribed limits, primarily to hedge price variability related to term physical gas supply contracts, and variable rate debt and for pipeline demand charges paid in Canadian dollars.

In the normal course of business, NW Natural also enters into indexed-price physical forward natural gas commodity purchase contracts and options to meet the requirements of NWN Gas Utility customers. These contracts qualify for regulatory deferral accounting treatment.

**<u>Notional Amounts</u>**

The following table presents the absolute notional amounts related to open positions on NW Natural derivative instruments:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | At December 31, | At December 31, |
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 |
| Natural gas (in therms): |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Financial | 757895 | 771110 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Physical | 692275 | 560900 |
| Foreign exchange | $8596 | $10332 |

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**<u>Purchased Gas Adjustment (PGA)</u>**

Rates and hedging approaches may vary between states due to different rate structures and mechanisms. Under the PGA mechanism in Oregon, derivatives entered into by NW Natural for the procurement or hedging of natural gas for future gas years generally receive regulatory deferral accounting treatment. In general, commodity hedging for the current gas year is completed prior to the start of the gas year, and hedge prices are fully recovered and reflected in the weighted-average cost of gas in the PGA filing. Hedge contracts entered into after the start of the PGA period for the current PGA year are subject to the PGA incentive sharing mechanism in Oregon. Under the PGA mechanism in Washington, NW Natural incorporates a risk-responsive hedging strategy, and receives regulatory deferral accounting treatment for its Washington gas hedges.

NW Natural entered the 2024-25 gas year with total forecasted sales volumes hedged at approximately 80%, including 64% in financial hedges and 16% in physical gas supplies. The total hedged was approximately 86% in Oregon and 32% in Washington. NW Natural entered the 2025-26 gas year with total forecasted sales volume hedged at approximately 79%, including 64% in financial hedges and 15% in physical gas supplies. The total hedged was approximately 84% in Oregon and 33% in Washington.

**<u>Unrealized and Realized Gain/Loss</u>**

The following table reflects the income statement presentation for the unrealized gains and losses from NW Natural's derivative instruments:

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2024 | December 31, 2024 |
| *In thousands* | Natural gas commodity | Foreign exchange | Natural gas commodity | Foreign exchange |
| Benefit (expense) to cost of gas | $(32065) | $49 | $4431 | $(524) |
| Amounts deferred to regulatory accounts on balance sheet | 32065 | (49) | (4431) | 524 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total gain (loss) in pre-tax earnings | $— | $— | $— | $— |

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<u>Unrealized Gain/Loss</u>

Outstanding derivative instruments related to regulated NWN Gas Utility operations are deferred in accordance with regulatory accounting standards. The cost of foreign currency forward and natural gas derivative contracts are recognized immediately in the cost of gas; however, costs above or below the amount embedded in the current year PGA are subject to a regulatory deferral tariff and therefore, are recorded as a regulatory asset or liability.

<u>Realized Gain/Loss</u>

NW Natural realized a net loss of $91.7 million and a net loss of $119.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively, from the settlement of natural gas financial derivative contracts. Realized gains and losses offset the higher or lower cost of gas purchased, resulting in no incremental amounts to collect or refund to customers.

**<u>Credit Risk Management of Financial Derivatives Instruments</u>**

No collateral was posted with or by NW Natural counterparties as of December 31, 2025 or 2024. NW Natural attempts to minimize the potential exposure to collateral calls by diversifying counterparties and using credit limits to manage liquidity risk. Counterparties generally allow a certain credit limit threshold based on our credit rating before requiring NW Natural to post collateral against unrealized loss positions. Given NW Natural's credit ratings, counterparty credit limits and portfolio diversification, it was not subject to collateral calls in 2025 or 2024. The collateral call exposure is set forth under credit support agreements, which generally contain credit limits. NW Natural could also be subject to collateral call exposure where it has agreed to provide adequate assurance, which is not specific as to the amount of credit limit allowed, but could potentially require additional collateral posting by NW Natural in the event of a material adverse change in NW Natural's ability to perform.

NW Natural's financial derivative instruments are subject to master netting arrangements; however, they are presented on a gross basis in the consolidated balance sheets. NW Natural and its counterparties have the ability to set-off obligations to each other under specified circumstances. Such circumstances may include a defaulting party, a credit change due to a merger affecting either party, or any other termination event.

If netted by its counterparties, NW Natural's physical and financial derivative position would result in an asset of $2.8 million and a liability of $76.1 million as of December 31, 2025, and an asset of $4.4 million and a liability of $86.0 million as of December 31, 2024.

NW Natural is exposed to derivative credit and liquidity risk primarily through securing fixed-price natural gas commodity swaps and interest rate swaps with financial counterparties. NW Natural utilizes master netting arrangements with International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) contracts to minimize these risks including ISDA Credit Support Agreements with counterparties based on their credit ratings. Additionally, NW Natural uses counterparty, industry, sector and country diversification to minimize credit risk. In certain cases, NW Natural may require counterparties to post collateral, guarantees, or letters of credit to maintain its minimum credit requirement standards or for liquidity management purposes.

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We actively monitor NW Natural's derivative credit exposure and place counterparties on hold for trading purposes or require other forms of credit assurance, such as letters of credit, cash collateral, or guarantees as circumstances warrant. The ongoing assessment of counterparty credit risk includes consideration of credit ratings, credit default swap spreads, bond market credit spreads, financial conditions, government actions, and market news. A Monte Carlo simulation model is used to estimate the change in credit and liquidity risk from the volatility of natural gas prices. The results of the model are used to establish trading limits. NW Natural's outstanding financial derivatives at December 31, 2025 mature by November 1, 2028.

We could become materially exposed to credit risk with one or more of our counterparties if natural gas prices experience a significant increase. If a counterparty were to become insolvent or fail to perform on its obligations, we could suffer a material loss; however, we would expect such a loss to be eligible for regulatory deferral and rate recovery, subject to a prudence review. All of our existing counterparties currently have investment-grade credit ratings.

**<u>Fair Value</u>**

In accordance with fair value accounting, NW Natural includes non-performance risk in calculating fair value adjustments. This includes a credit risk adjustment based on the credit spreads of NW Natural counterparties when in an unrealized gain position, or on NW Natural's own credit spread when it is in an unrealized loss position. The inputs in our valuation models include natural gas futures, volatility, credit default swap spreads, and interest rates. Additionally, the assessment of non-performance risk is generally derived from the credit default swap market and from bond market credit spreads. The impact of the credit risk adjustments for all financial derivatives outstanding to the fair value calculation was $0.2 million, which decreased the liability at December 31, 2025. As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, the net fair value was a liability of $73.3 million and a liability of $81.6 million, respectively. No Level 3 inputs were used in our derivative valuations during the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024.

<u>NWN Water Interest Rate Swap Agreement</u>

In January 2023, NWN Water entered into an interest rate swap agreement with a major financial institution for $55.0 million that effectively converted variable-rate debt to a fixed rate of 3.80%. Interest payments made between the effective date and expiration date are hedged by the swap agreement. The interest rate swap agreement expires in June 2026, along with the variable-rate debt.

Unrealized gains related to the interest rate swap agreement are recorded in AOCI on the consolidated balance sheet and totaled $0.2 million, net of tax, as of December 31, 2024 and were immaterial as of December 31, 2025. Realized gains or losses occur as a result of monthly swap settlements. Gains of $0.3 million and $0.9 million were reclassified from AOCI to net income during the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. The estimated amount of gains recorded in AOCI as of December 31, 2025 that are expected to be reclassified to net income within the next twelve months is immaterial.

***16. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES***

**<u>Gas Purchase Agreements</u>**

NW Natural enters into short-term and long-term physical baseload gas purchase agreements. The majority of our gas purchase agreements include year-round, winter-only, summer-only, and monthly purchases.

**<u>Pipeline Capacity Purchase and Release Commitments</u>**

NW Natural has signed agreements providing for the reservation of firm pipeline capacity under which it is required to make monthly payments for contracted capacity. The pricing component of the monthly payment is established, subject to change, by U.S. or Canadian regulatory bodies, or is established directly with private counterparties, as applicable. In addition, NW Natural has entered into long-term agreements to release firm pipeline capacity. The parties that we release this capacity to make payments directly to the related pipelines.

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The aggregate amounts of these agreements at NW Natural were as follows at December 31, 2025:

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| *In thousands* | Gas Purchase Agreements<sup>(1)</sup> | Pipeline<br>Capacity<br>Purchase Agreements | Pipeline<br>Capacity<br>Release Agreements |
| 2026 | $261333 | $84234 | $8800 |
| 2027 | 98670 | 88442 | 5197 |
| 2028 | 91862 | 81575 | 5197 |
| 2029 | 78724 | 72972 | 5197 |
| 2030 | 31151 | 69353 | 4330 |
| Thereafter | 191047 | 375061 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | 752787 | 771637 | 28721 |
| Less: Amount representing interest | 110276 | 194416 | 2213 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total at present value | $642511 | $577221 | $26508 |

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<sup>(1)</sup> Gas purchase agreements include environmental attributes of RNG.

Total fixed charges under capacity purchase agreements were $89.4 million for 2025, $85.1 million for 2024, and $87.0 million for 2023, of which $9.3 million, $8.9 million, and $8.2 million, respectively, related to capacity releases which third parties paid directly to the related pipelines. In addition, per-unit charges are required to be paid based on the actual quantities shipped under the agreements. In certain take-or-pay purchase commitments, annual deficiencies may be offset by prepayments subject to recovery over a longer term if future purchases exceed the minimum annual requirements.

**<u>NWN Renewables Purchase Agreements</u>**

NWN Renewables is an unregulated subsidiary of NW Holdings established to pursue investments in RNG activities. NWN Renewables, through its subsidiary Ohio Renewables, executed agreements with a subsidiary of EDL, a global producer of sustainable distributed energy, to secure RNG supply from two production facilities that convert landfill waste gases to RNG. This arrangement consists of a development agreement, an exclusive use agreement, a purchase agreement, and various guarantees.

Under the development agreement, the EDL subsidiary was responsible for the development and construction of the facilities. The first facility was completed and commenced delivery of RNG to Ohio Renewables in September 2024. Upon reaching this milestone, Ohio Renewables paid $26.0 million to the EDL subsidiary. The second facility was completed and commenced delivery of RNG to Ohio Renewables in December 2024 at which point Ohio Renewables made an additional payment of $25.4 million to the EDL subsidiary. The payments were recorded as long-term prepaid assets and will be amortized based on the volumes delivered over the life of the agreement.

Under the purchase agreement, Ohio Renewables and the subsidiary of EDL executed agreements for Ohio Renewables to purchase up to an annual specified amount of RNG produced by the EDL facilities over a 20-year period at a contractually specified price. In December 2025, Ohio Renewables entered into an agreement to purchase up to an annual specified amount of RNG produced by the EDL facilities from a separate investment-grade counterparty over an 11-year period at a contractually specified price. Purchase volumes are variable based on production, and purchases may not exceed contracted amounts. We currently estimate the amount of RNG purchases based on prices and estimated production volumes specified in the agreements to be $20.9 million in 2026, $31.4 million in 2027, $31.6 million in 2028, $30.8 million in 2029, $31.4 million in 2030 and $599.3 million thereafter through 2044. In 2025, purchases totaled $14.5 million.

NW Holdings entered into a guarantee on behalf of Ohio Renewables with EDL. Per the guarantee, NW Holdings unconditionally and irrevocably guarantees the timely payment and performance when due of all obligations of Ohio Renewables. NW Holdings has not recognized a liability for its obligations under the guarantee in accordance with ASC 460, *Guarantees*.

**<u>NWN Renewables Sale Agreements</u>**

<u>2024 - 2026</u>

Ohio Renewables has contracted to sell RNG produced by the EDL facilities up to certain specified volumes in each of calendar years 2024 through 2026 to an investment-grade counterparty. Upon each delivery of RNG, Ohio Renewables will purchase an equal quantity of natural gas without renewable attributes at the same delivery point. Ohio Renewables has separately contracted to sell the natural gas purchased from EDL to another counterparty also at the same delivery point upon receipt. Alongside these agreements, NW Holdings entered into a guarantee on behalf of Ohio Renewables. Per the guarantee, NW Holdings unconditionally and irrevocably guarantees the prompt payment of all present and future obligations of Ohio Renewables. NW Holdings has not recognized a liability for its obligations under the guarantee in accordance with ASC 460, *Guarantees*.

The guarantee specifies annual cap amounts on the aggregate liability covered by the Guarantee as follows:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2026 |
| Cap Amount | $44226 | $21113 |

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<u>2025 - 2044</u>

Ohio Renewables additionally has contracted to sell a fixed-volume amount of RNG under a long-term agreement with an investment-grade utility beginning in 2025 and extending through 2044. Under the current contract, if less than 75% of the contracted volumes of RNG are delivered on an annual basis, Ohio Renewables is obligated to pay the per MMbtu price for volumes between the amount delivered and 75% of the contracted volumes on an annual basis. NW Holdings entered into a guarantee on behalf of Ohio Renewables. Per the guarantee, NW Holdings unconditionally and irrevocably guarantees the prompt payment of all present and future obligations of Ohio Renewables. The total liability under this guarantee cannot exceed $2.0 million. NW Holdings has not recognized a liability for its obligations under the guarantee in accordance with ASC 460, *Guarantees*.

**<u>Leases</u>**

Refer to Note 7 for a discussion of lease commitments and contingencies.

**<u>Environmental Matters</u>**

Refer to Note 17 for a discussion of environmental commitments and contingencies.

***17. ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS***

NW Natural owns, or previously owned, properties that may require environmental remediation or action. The range of loss for environmental liabilities is estimated based on current remediation technology, enacted laws and regulations, industry experience gained at similar sites, and an assessment of the probable level of involvement and financial condition of other potentially responsible parties (PRPs). When amounts are prudently expended related to site remediation of those sites described herein, NW Natural has recovery mechanisms in place to collect 96.7% of remediation costs allocable to Oregon customers and 3.3% of costs allocable to Washington customers.

These sites are subject to the remediation process prescribed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ). The process begins with a remedial investigation (RI) to determine the nature and extent of contamination and then a risk assessment (RA) to establish whether the contamination at the site poses unacceptable risks to humans and the environment. Next, a feasibility study (FS) or an engineering evaluation/cost analysis (EE/CA) evaluates various remedial alternatives. It is at this point in the process when NW Natural is able to estimate a range of remediation costs and record a reasonable potential remediation liability, or make an adjustment to the existing liability. From this study, the regulatory agency selects a remedy and issues a Record of Decision (ROD). After a ROD is issued, NW Natural would seek to negotiate a consent decree or consent judgment for designing and implementing the remedy. NW Natural would have the ability to further refine estimates of remediation liabilities based upon an approved remedial design.

Remediation may include treatment of contaminated media such as sediment, soil and groundwater, removal and disposal of media, institutional controls such as legal restrictions on future property use, or natural recovery. Following construction of the remedy, the EPA and ODEQ also have requirements for ongoing maintenance, monitoring and other post-remediation care that may continue for many years. Where appropriate and reasonably known, NW Natural will provide for these costs in the remediation liabilities described below.

Due to the numerous uncertainties surrounding the course of environmental remediation and the preliminary nature of several site investigations, in some cases, NW Natural may not be able to reasonably estimate the high end of the range of possible loss. In those cases, the nature of the possible loss has been disclosed, as has the fact that the high end of the range cannot be reasonably estimated where a range of potential loss is available. Unless there is an estimate within the range of possible losses that is more likely than other cost estimates within that range, NW Natural records the liability at the low end of this range. It is likely changes in these estimates and ranges will occur throughout the remediation process for each of these sites due to the continued evaluation and clarification concerning responsibility, the complexity of environmental laws and regulations and the determination by regulators of remediation alternatives. In addition to remediation costs, NW Natural could also be subject to Natural Resource Damages (NRD) claims. NW Natural will assess the likelihood and probability of each claim and recognize a liability if deemed appropriate. Refer to "*Other Portland Harbor*" below.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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**<u>Environmental Sites</u>**

The following table summarizes information regarding liabilities related to environmental sites, which are recorded in other current liabilities and other noncurrent liabilities in NW Natural's balance sheet at December 31:

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| | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | Current Liabilities | Current Liabilities | Non-Current Liabilities | Non-Current Liabilities |
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 | 2025 | 2024 |
| Portland Harbor site: |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gasco/Siltronic Sediments | $13950 | $13626 | $43247 | $41565 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other Portland Harbor | 3669 | 3308 | 12770 | 12270 |
| Gasco/Siltronic Uplands site | 25643 | 23400 | 61782 | 64522 |
| Front Street site | 486 | 841 | 292 | 279 |
| Oregon Steel Mills |  |  | 179 | 179 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total | $43748 | $41175 | $118270 | $118815 |

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<u>Portland Harbor Site</u>

The Portland Harbor is an EPA listed Superfund site that is approximately 10 miles long on the Willamette River and is adjacent to NW Natural's Gasco uplands site. NW Natural is one of over one hundred PRPs, each jointly and severally liable, at the Superfund site. In January 2017, the EPA issued its Record of Decision, which selects the remedy for the clean-up of the Portland Harbor site (Portland Harbor ROD). The Portland Harbor ROD estimates the present value total cost at approximately $1.05 billion with an accuracy between -30% and +50% of actual costs.

NW Natural's potential liability is a portion of the costs of the remedy for the entire Portland Harbor Superfund site. The cost of that remedy is expected to be allocated among more than one hundred PRPs. NW Natural is participating in a non-binding allocation process with other PRPs in an effort to resolve its potential liability. The Portland Harbor ROD does not provide any additional clarification around allocation of costs among PRPs; accordingly, NW Natural has not modified any of the recorded liabilities at this time as a result of the issuance of the Portland Harbor ROD.

NW Natural manages its liability related to the Superfund site as two distinct remediation projects, the Gasco Sediments Site and Other Portland Harbor projects.

**GASCO SEDIMENTS.** In 2009, NW Natural and Siltronic Corporation entered into a separate Administrative Order on Consent with the EPA to evaluate and design specific remedies for sediments adjacent to the Gasco uplands and Siltronic uplands sites. NW Natural submitted a draft EE/CA to the EPA in May 2012 and the EE/CA estimated the cost of potential remedial alternatives for this site. NW Natural is completing pre-design studies and has submitted a Preliminary Design Report, which the EPA approved in December 2024. These preliminary design steps do not include a cost estimate for cleanup. No remedial design for the Gasco Sediments Site is more likely than the EE/CA alternatives at this time, and NW Natural expects further design discussion and iteration with the EPA.

In March 2020, NW Natural and the EPA amended the Administrative Order on Consent to include additional remedial design activities downstream of the Gasco Sediments Site at the US Moorings and Navigation Channel remedial design project areas. Siltronic Corporation is not a party to the amended order. NW Natural has submitted Basis of Design Reports for the Navigation Channel and US Moorings remedial design project areas to the EPA.

The estimated costs for the various sediment remedy alternatives in the draft EE/CA for the additional studies and design work needed before the cleanup can occur, and for regulatory oversight throughout the cleanup range from $57.2 million to $350 million. NW Natural has recorded a liability of $57.2 million for the Gasco sediment clean-up, which reflects the low end of the range. At this time, we believe sediments at the Gasco sediments site represent the largest portion of NW Natural's liability related to the Portland Harbor site discussed above.

**OTHER PORTLAND HARBOR.** While we believe liabilities associated with the Gasco sediments site represent NW Natural's largest exposure, there are other potential exposures associated with the Portland Harbor ROD, including NRD costs and harborwide remedial design and cleanup costs (including downstream petroleum contamination), for which allocations among the PRPs have not yet been determined.

NW Natural and other parties have signed a cooperative agreement with the Portland Harbor Natural Resource Trustee council to participate in a phased NRD assessment to estimate liabilities to support an early restoration-based settlement of NRD claims. One member of this Trustee council, the Yakama Nation, withdrew from the council in 2009, and in 2017, filed suit against NW Natural and 29 other parties seeking remedial costs and NRD assessment costs associated with the Portland Harbor site, set forth in the complaint. The complaint seeks recovery of alleged costs totaling $0.3 million in connection with the selection of a remedial action for the Portland Harbor site as well as declaratory judgment for unspecified future remedial action costs and for costs to assess the injury, loss or destruction of natural resources resulting from the release of hazardous substances at and from the Portland Harbor site. The Yakama Nation has filed two amended complaints addressing certain pleading defects and

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dismissing the State of Oregon. On the motion of NW Natural and certain other defendants the federal court has stayed the case pending the outcome of the non-binding allocation proceeding discussed above. NW Natural has recorded a liability for NRD claims which is at the low end of the range of the potential liability; the high end of the range cannot be reasonably estimated at this time. The NRD liability is not included in the aforementioned range of costs provided in the Portland Harbor ROD.

<u>Gasco Uplands Site</u>

A predecessor of NW Natural, Portland Gas and Coke Company, owned a former gas manufacturing plant that was closed in 1958 (Gasco site) and is adjacent to the Portland Harbor site described above. The Gasco site has been under investigation by NW Natural for environmental contamination under the ODEQ Voluntary Cleanup Program (VCP). It is not included in the range of remedial costs for the Portland Harbor site noted above. The Gasco site is managed in two parts, the uplands portion and the groundwater source control action.

NW Natural submitted a revised Remedial Investigation Report for the uplands to ODEQ in May 2007. In March 2015, ODEQ approved the Risk Assessment (RA) for this site, enabling commencement of work on the FS in 2016.

In October 2016, ODEQ and NW Natural agreed to amend their VCP agreement for the Gasco uplands to incorporate a portion of the Siltronic property formerly owned by Portland Gas & Coke between 1939 and 1960 into the Gasco RA and FS. Previously, NW Natural was conducting an investigation of manufactured gas plant constituents on the entire Siltronic uplands for ODEQ. Siltronic will be working with ODEQ directly on environmental impacts to the remainder of its property.

In September 2013, NW Natural completed construction of a groundwater source control system, including a water treatment station, at the Gasco site. NW Natural has estimated the cost associated with the ongoing operation of the system and has recognized a liability which is at the low end of the range of potential cost. NW Natural cannot estimate the high end of the range at this time due to the uncertainty associated with the duration of running the water treatment station, which is highly dependent on the remedy determined for both the upland portion as well as the final remedy for the Gasco sediments site.

In December 2024, NW Natural submitted the Gasco uplands FS to ODEQ. The FS presents a set of remedial action alternatives and provides the basis for a range of potential remedial costs for the site. The estimated costs for the alternative remedies range from $47.1 million to $358 million. NW Natural has recorded a liability of $47.1 million, which reflects the low end of the range. NW Natural is currently revising the FS report to address ODEQ comments.

Additionally, the EPA's Gasco sediments Administrative Order requires the integration of upland source controls with the sediment remedy. The selected sediment remedy, which is discussed above under "Gasco Sediments," is currently under separate design for the EPA. To comply with the source control integration requirement, some Gasco uplands work must be expedited. An Interim Remedial Action Measure (IRAM) for the Gasco uplands is the regulatory mechanism ODEQ has selected to accomplish that goal. As a result, the Gasco uplands FS also includes a separate cost range for the IRAM. The estimated costs for the IRAM range from $10.4 million to $78 million. NW Natural has recorded a liability of $10.4 million, which reflects the low end of the range.

<u>Other Sites</u>

In addition to those sites above, NW Natural has environmental exposures at three other sites: Central Service Center, Front Street and Oregon Steel Mills. NW Natural may have exposure at other sites that have not been identified at this time. Due to the uncertainty of the design of remediation, regulation, timing of the remediation and in the case of the Oregon Steel Mills site, pending litigation, liabilities for each of these sites have been recognized at their respective low end of the range of potential liability; the high end of the range could not be reasonably estimated at this time.

**FRONT STREET SITE.** The Front Street site was the former location of a gas manufacturing plant NW Natural operated (the former Portland Gas Manufacturing site, or PGM). At ODEQ's request, NW Natural conducted a sediment and source control investigation and provided findings to ODEQ. In December 2015, an FS on the former Portland Gas Manufacturing site was completed.

In July 2017, ODEQ issued the PGM ROD. The ROD specifies the selected remedy, which requires a combination of dredging, capping, treatment, and natural recovery. In addition, the selected remedy also requires institutional controls and long-term inspection and maintenance. Construction of the remedy began in July 2020 and was completed in October 2020. The second year of post-construction monitoring was completed in 2022 and demonstrated that the cap was intact and performing as designed. NW Natural has recognized an additional liability of $0.8 million associated with long-term monitoring and post-construction work.

**OREGON STEEL MILLS SITE.** Refer to "Legal Proceedings," below.

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**<u>Environmental Cost Deferral and Recovery</u>**

NW Natural has authorizations in Oregon and Washington to defer costs related to remediation of properties that are owned or were previously owned by NW Natural. In Oregon, a Site Remediation and Recovery Mechanism (SRRM) is currently in place to recover prudently incurred costs allocable to Oregon customers, subject to an earnings test. On October 21, 2019 the WUTC authorized an Environmental Cost Recovery Mechanism (ECRM) for recovery of prudently incurred costs allocable to Washington customers beginning November 1, 2019.

The following table presents information regarding the total regulatory asset deferred as of December 31:

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 |
| Deferred costs and interest<sup>(1)</sup> | $71954 | $64940 |
| Accrued site liabilities<sup>(2)</sup> | 161993 | 159954 |
| Insurance proceeds and interest | (41736) | (47062) |
| Total regulatory asset deferral<sup>(1)</sup> | 192211 | 177832 |
| Current regulatory assets<sup>(3)</sup> | 12148 | 10746 |
| Long-term regulatory assets<sup>(3)</sup> | 180063 | 167086 |

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<sup>(1)</sup> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Includes pre-review and post-review deferred costs, amounts currently in amortization, and interest, net of amounts collected from customers.

<sup>(2)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>Excludes 3.3% of the Front Street site liability as the OPUC only allows recovery of 96.7% of costs for those sites allocable to Oregon, including those that historically served only Oregon customers. Amounts excluded from regulatory assets were $25 thousand in 2025 and $36 thousand in 2024.

<sup>(3)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>Environmental costs relate to specific sites approved for regulatory deferral by the OPUC and WUTC. In Oregon, NW Natural earns a carrying charge on cash amounts paid, whereas amounts accrued but not yet paid do not earn a carrying charge until expended. It also accrues a carrying charge on insurance proceeds for amounts owed to customers. In Washington, neither the cash paid nor insurance proceeds received accrue a carrying charge. Current environmental costs represent remediation costs management expects to collect from customers in the next 12 months. Amounts included in this estimate are still subject to a prudence and earnings test review by the OPUC and do not include the $5.0 million tariff rider. The amounts allocable to Oregon are recoverable through rates, subject to an earnings test. See "*Oregon SRRM*" below.

**<u>Oregon SRRM</u>**

<u>Collections From Oregon Customers</u>

Under the SRRM collection process, there are three types of deferred environmental remediation expense:

• Pre-review - This class of costs represents remediation spend that has not yet been deemed prudent by the OPUC. Carrying costs on these remediation expenses are recorded at NW Natural's authorized cost of capital. NW Natural anticipates the prudence review for annual costs and approval of the earnings test prescribed by the OPUC to occur by the third quarter of the following year.

• Post-review - This class of costs represents remediation spend that has been deemed prudent and allowed after applying the earnings test, but is not yet included in amortization. NW Natural earns a carrying cost on these amounts at a rate equal to the five-year treasury rate plus 100 basis points.

• Amortization - This class of costs represents amounts included in current customer rates for collection and is generally calculated as one-fifth of the post-review deferred balance. NW Natural earns a carrying cost equal to the amortization rate determined annually by the OPUC, which approximates a short-term borrowing rate.

In addition to the collection amount noted above, an order issued by the OPUC provides for the annual collection of $5.0 million from Oregon customers through a tariff rider. As NW Natural collects amounts from customers, it recognizes these collections as revenue and separately amortizes an equal and offsetting amount of its deferred regulatory asset balance through the environmental remediation operating expense line shown separately in the operating expense section of the income statement.

NW Natural received total environmental insurance proceeds of approximately $150 million as a result of settlements from litigation that was dismissed in July 2014. Under a 2015 OPUC order which established the SRRM, one-third of the Oregon allocated proceeds were applied to costs deferred through 2012 with the remaining two-thirds applied to costs at a rate of $5.0 million per year plus interest over the following 20 years. NW Natural accrues interest on the Oregon allocated insurance proceeds in the customer's favor at a rate equal to the five-year treasury rate plus 100 basis points. As of December 31, 2025, NW Natural has applied $110.7 million of insurance proceeds to prudently incurred remediation costs allocated to Oregon.

<u>Environmental Earnings Test</u>

To the extent NW Natural earns at or below its authorized Return on Equity (ROE) as defined by the SRRM, remediation expenses and interest in excess of the $5.0 million tariff rider and $5.0 million insurance proceeds are recoverable through the SRRM. To the extent NW Natural earns more than its authorized ROE in a year, it is required to cover environmental expenses and interest on expenses greater than the $10.0 million with those earnings that exceed its authorized ROE.

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**<u>Washington ECRM</u>**

<u>Washington Deferral</u>

On October 21, 2019, the WUTC issued an order (WUTC Order) establishing the ECRM which allows for recovery of past deferred and future prudently incurred environmental remediation costs allocable to Washington customers through application of insurance proceeds and collections from customers. Environmental remediation expenses relating to sites that previously served both Oregon and Washington customers are allocated between states with Washington customers receiving 3.3% percent of the costs and insurance proceeds.

In accordance with the WUTC Order, insurance proceeds were fully applied to costs incurred between December 2018 and June 2019 that were deemed prudent. Remaining insurance proceeds will be amortized over a 10.5 year period ending December 31, 2029. As of December 31, 2025, approximately $4.3 million of proceeds have been applied to prudently incurred costs.

On an annual basis, NW Natural files for a prudence determination and a request to amortize costs to the extent that remediation expenses exceed the insurance amortization. After insurance proceeds are fully amortized, if in a particular year the request to collect deferred amounts exceeds one percent of Washington normalized revenues, then the excess will be collected over three years with interest.

**<u>Legal Proceedings</u>**

On October 11, 2024, NW Natural was added as a defendant to an ongoing lawsuit brought by Multnomah County in the Circuit Court for Multnomah County, Oregon *(County of Multnomah v. Exxon Mobil Corp., et. al.,* No.23-cv-25164) against more than a dozen oil and gas producers seeking damages relating to climate change impacts. The County asserts various causes of action, including negligence, fraud, trespass and public nuisance under Oregon law related to the refining, producing and/or marketing of fossil fuels. NW Natural is diligently defending against the claims.

On October 14, 2024, NW Natural and NW Holdings were named the defendants in a lawsuit filed in the Circuit Court for Multnomah County, Oregon *(Blumm et. al. v. Northwest Natural Gas Company*, 24-cv-48490), that is seeking class certification on behalf of all Oregon NW Natural Smart Energy-enrolled customers during the past approximately six years. The lawsuit alleges claims under Oregon's Unlawful Trade Practices Act and for breach of contract, with respect to NW Natural's Smart Energy program. The plaintiffs seek injunctive and equitable relief and damages. In October 2025, NW Holdings was dismissed as a party to the proceeding. The plaintiffs subsequently filed a Second Amended Complaint re-alleging claims against NW Holdings. We are diligently defending against the claims.

NW Natural and NW Holdings are subject to claims and litigation arising in the ordinary course of business, including the matters discussed above. Although the final outcome of any of these legal proceedings cannot be predicted with certainty, including the matter relating to the Oregon Steel Mills site referenced below, NW Natural and NW Holdings do not expect that the ultimate disposition of any of these matters will have a material effect on their financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows. See also Part I, Item 3, "Legal Proceedings".

<u>Oregon Steel Mills Site</u>

In 2004, NW Natural was served with a third-party complaint by the Port of Portland (the Port) in a Multnomah County Circuit Court case, Oregon Steel Mills, Inc. v. The Port of Portland. The Port alleges that in the 1940s and 1950s petroleum wastes generated by NW Natural's predecessor, Portland Gas & Coke Company, and 10 other third-party defendants, were disposed of in a waste oil disposal facility operated by the United States or Shaver Transportation Company on property then owned by the Port and now owned by Evraz Oregon Steel Mills. The complaint seeks contribution for unspecified past remedial action costs incurred by the Port regarding the former waste oil disposal facility as well as a declaratory judgment allocating liability for future remedial action costs. No date has been set for trial. In August 2017, the case was stayed pending the outcome of the Portland Harbor allocation process or other mediation. Although the final outcome of this proceeding cannot be predicted with certainty, NW Natural and NW Holdings do not expect the ultimate disposition of this matter will have a material effect on NW Natural's or NW Holdings' financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.

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SCHEDULE I - CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY

**NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY**

CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(PARENT COMPANY ONLY)

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | Year Ended December 31, | Year Ended December 31, | Year Ended December 31, |
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Operating expenses: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Operations and maintenance | $14950 | $6603 | $5145 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total operating expenses | 14950 | 6603 | 5145 |
| Loss from operations | (14950) | (6603) | (5145) |
| Earnings from investment in subsidiaries, net of tax | 160477 | 93074 | 106267 |
| Other income (expense), net | 176 | 295 | (1156) |
| Interest expense, net | 47959 | 13004 | 10022 |
| Income before income taxes | 97744 | 73762 | 89944 |
| Income tax benefit | (15575) | (5109) | (3924) |
| Net income | 113319 | 78871 | 93868 |
| Other comprehensive income (loss) from subsidiaries, net of tax | 2153 | 264 | (868) |
| Unrealized (loss) gain on interest rate swap, net of tax |  | (115) | 104 |
| Comprehensive income | $115472 | $79020 | $93104 |

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See Notes to Condensed Financial Statements

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**NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY**

CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS

(PARENT COMPANY ONLY)

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| | As of December 31, | As of December 31, |
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 |
| Assets: |  |  |
| Current assets: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash and cash equivalents | $29 | $484 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Receivables from affiliates | 4678 | 5765 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other current assets | 8232 | 3038 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total current assets | 12939 | 9287 |
| Non-current assets: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Investments in subsidiaries | 2300272 | 1718849 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deferred tax assets | 8845 | 1138 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other non-current assets | 1036 | 396 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total non-current assets | 2310153 | 1720383 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total assets | $2323092 | $1729670 |
| Liabilities and equity: |  |  |
| Current liabilities: |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Short-term debt | $161999 | $33600 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Current maturities of long-term debt | 49976 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Accounts payable | 643 | 1073 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Payables to affiliates | 19820 | 22831 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other current liabilities | 10245 | 3071 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total current liabilities | 242683 | 60575 |
| Long-term debt | 605333 | 283724 |
| Commitments and contingencies (see Note 16 and Note 17) |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total equity | 1475076 | 1385371 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Total liabilities and equity | $2323092 | $1729670 |

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See Notes to Condensed Financial Statements

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**NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY**

CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(PARENT COMPANY ONLY)

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | Year Ended December 31, | Year Ended December 31, | Year Ended December 31, |
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 |
| Operating activities: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Net income | $113319 | $78871 | $93868 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash used in operations: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Equity in earnings of subsidiaries, net of tax | (160477) | (93074) | (106267) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash dividends received from subsidiaries | 86525 | 72773 | 92375 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deferred income taxes | (7707) | (584) | (31) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other | 900 | 284 | 164 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Changes in assets and liabilities: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Receivables from affiliates | 1488 | 11260 | (5629) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Income and other taxes | (5659) | 420 | (491) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Accounts payable | (2996) | 3362 | 6314 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interest accrued | 7106 | 2640 | 103 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other, net | 25 | (302) | (380) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash provided by operating activities | 32524 | 75650 | 80026 |
| Investing activities: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Acquisitions, net of cash acquired | (271053) | **—** | **—** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Contributions to subsidiaries | (268318) | (241834) | (76310) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Return of capital from subsidiaries | 33650 |  | 3350 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash used in investing activities | (505721) | (241834) | (72960) |
| Financing activities: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds from common stock issued, net | 47418 | 90374 | 66495 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Long-term debt issued | 375000 | 285000 |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Long-term debt retired |  | (100000) |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Changes in other short-term debt, net | 128399 | (39400) | (15000) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash dividend payments on common stock | (77309) | (72852) | (67340) |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Capital contributions |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other | (766) | 2535 | 2510 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cash provided by (used in) financing activities | 472742 | 165657 | (13335) |
| (Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents | (455) | (527) | (6269) |
| Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period | 484 | 1011 | 7280 |
| Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period | $29 | $484 | $1011 |

---

See Notes to Condensed Financial Statements

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NOTES TO CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

***1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION***

NW Holdings is an energy services holding company that conducts substantially all of its business operations through its subsidiaries, particularly NW Natural. These condensed financial statements and related footnotes have been prepared in accordance with Rule 12-04, Schedule I of Regulation S-X. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto of NW Holdings included in Item 8 of this Form 10-K. NW Holdings' wholly-owned subsidiaries are recorded based upon its proportionate share of the subsidiaries' net assets (similar to presenting them on the equity method).

Equity earnings of subsidiaries including earnings from NW Natural were $160.5 million, $93.1 million, and $106.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024, and 2023 respectively.

There was $120.2 million, $72.8 million and $95.7 million of cash paid to NW Holdings from wholly-owned subsidiaries for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

***2. DEBT***

For information concerning NW Holdings' debt obligations, see Note 9 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this report.

***3. GUARANTEES***

For information concerning NW Holdings' guarantees, see Note 9 and Note 16 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this report.

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**NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY**

SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS AND RESERVES

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| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| COLUMN A | COLUMN B | COLUMN C | COLUMN C | COLUMN D | COLUMN E |
|  |  | Additions | Additions | Deductions |  |
| *In thousands (year ended December 31)* | Balance at beginning of period | Charged to costs and expenses | Charged to other accounts | Net write-offs | Balance at end of period |
| **2025** |  |  |  |  |  |
| Reserves deducted in balance sheet from assets to which they apply: |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Allowance for uncollectible accounts | $3474 | $3507 | $— | $2913 | $4068 |
| **2024** |  |  |  |  |  |
| Reserves deducted in balance sheet from assets to which they apply: |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Allowance for uncollectible accounts | $3455 | $2437 | $(154) | $2264 | $3474 |
| **2023** |  |  |  |  |  |
| Reserves deducted in balance sheet from assets to which they apply: |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Allowance for uncollectible accounts | $3296 | $2869 | $263 | $2973 | $3455 |

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**NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY**

SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS AND RESERVES

---

| | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| COLUMN A | COLUMN B | COLUMN C | COLUMN C | COLUMN D | COLUMN E |
|  |  | Additions | Additions | Deductions |  |
| *In thousands (year ended December 31)* | Balance at beginning of period | Charged to costs and expenses | Charged to other accounts | Net write-offs | Balance at end of period |
| **2025** |  |  |  |  |  |
| Reserves deducted in balance sheet from assets to which they apply: |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Allowance for uncollectible accounts | $2788 | $2313 | $— | $2053 | $3048 |
| **2024** |  |  |  |  |  |
| Reserves deducted in balance sheet from assets to which they apply: |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Allowance for uncollectible accounts | $3228 | $1785 | $(154) | $2071 | $2788 |
| **2023** |  |  |  |  |  |
| Reserves deducted in balance sheet from assets to which they apply: |  |  |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Allowance for uncollectible accounts | $3079 | $2859 | $263 | $2973 | $3228 |

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ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

None.

ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

(a) Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

NW Holdings and NW Natural management, under the supervision and with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, completed an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act)). Based upon this evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of each registrant have concluded that, as of the end of the period covered by this report, disclosure controls and procedures were effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by each such registrant and included in reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) rules and forms and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management of each registrant, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

(b) Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

NW Holdings and NW Natural management are responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f).

There were no changes in NW Holdings' or NW Natural's internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended December 31, 2025 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, internal control over financial reporting for NW Holdings and NW Natural, except as noted below.

Management has excluded SiEnergy Operating, LLC (SiEnergy) from its assessment of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2025 as it was acquired by the Company in a purchase business combination during 2025. Total assets and total net sales of SiEnergy excluded from management's assessment of internal control over financial reporting represent approximately 9.6% and 5.1%, respectively, of the related consolidated financial statement amounts as of and for the year ended December 31, 2025. This exclusion is in accordance with the guidelines established by the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The statements contained in Exhibit 31.1, Exhibit 31.2, Exhibit 31.3, and Exhibit 31.4 should be considered in light of, and read together with, the information set forth in this Item 9A.

ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION

**<u>Director Retirement</u>**

The following disclosure is intended to satisfy any obligation to provide disclosures pursuant to Item 5.02(b) of Form 8-K:

On February 25, 2026, Karen Lee notified NW Holdings that she intends to retire from the Board at the end of her current term, which expires following the 2026 Annual Shareholders Meeting scheduled for May 28, 2026. She will additionally retire from the Board of NW Natural at such time.

Ms. Lee has served as a director since 2021. She currently serves as a member of the Finance and Public Affairs and Environmental Policy Committees.

In connection with Ms. Lee's notice and in accordance with NW Holdings' Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation, the Board approved a resolution reducing the number of directors comprising NW Holdings' Board from 11 to 10 members, effective as of the expiration of Ms. Lee's term.

**<u>Rule 10b5-1 Trading Arrangements</u>**

From time to time, our officers (as defined in Rule 16a-1(f) of the Exchange Act) and directors may enter into Rule 10b5-1 or

non-Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangements (as each such term is defined in Item 408 of Regulation S-K). During the three months ended December 31, 2025, none of our officers or directors adopted, modified or terminated any such trading arrangements.

ITEM 9C. DISCLOSURE REGARDING FOREIGN JURISDICTIONS THAT PREVENT INSPECTIONS

Not applicable.

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PART III

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

The "Information Concerning Nominees and Directors", "Corporate Governance" and "Delinquent Section 16(a) Reports" contained in NW Holdings' definitive Proxy Statement for the 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders is hereby incorporated by reference. The following are officers of NW Natural, unless indicated otherwise.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **EXECUTIVE OFFICERS** | **EXECUTIVE OFFICERS** | **EXECUTIVE OFFICERS** |
| Name | Age at <br>Dec. 31, 2025 | Positions held during last five years<sup>(1)</sup> |
| Justin B. Palfreyman\* | 47 | President and Chief Executive Officer, NW Holdings (2025-); Chief Executive Officer, NW Natural (2025-); President, NW Natural (2023-2025); Senior Vice President, Strategy and Business Development, NW Natural (2023); Vice President, Strategy and Business Development (2017-2023); President, NW Natural RNG Holding Company, LLC (2021-2025); President, NW Natural Water Company, LLC (2018-2024); Vice President, Business Development (2016-2017); Director, Power, Energy and Infrastructure Group, Lazard, Freres & Co. (2009-2016). |
| Megan H. Berge\* | 45 | Senior Vice President, General Counsel, Chief Compliance Officer and Corporate Secretary<sup>(2)</sup> (2026-); Deputy General Counsel and Corporate Secretary, NW Holdings (2025-2026); Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary, NW Natural (2025-2026); Attorney, Baker Botts, L.L.P. (2006-2025). |
| Brian Fellon | 50 | Vice President, Chief Information Officer and Chief Information Security Officer (2024-); Director of Information Technology, Puget Sound Energy (2016-2024). |
| Joseph S. Karney | 47 | Vice President, Engineering and Utility Operations (2023-); Senior Director, Utility Operations (2021-2023); Senior Engineering Director (2019-2021); Engineering Director (2017-2019); Compliance Senior Manager (2015-2017). |
| Raymond J. Kaszuba III\* | 46 | Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer<sup>(2)</sup> (2024-); Interim President, Amerigas, a subsidiary of UGI Corporation (2023-2024); Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Amerigas, a subsidiary of UGI Corporation (2022-2023); Vice President and Treasurer, UGI Corporation (2020-2022); Senior Vice President, Finance and Treasurer, Enviva (2018-2020); Vice President and Treasurer, Enviva (2015-2018). |
| Zachary D. Kravitz | 42 | Vice President, Regulatory Affairs and Resource Planning (2025-); Vice President, Rates and Regulatory (2022-2025); Senior Director, Rates and Regulatory (2021-2022); Director, Rates and Regulatory (2018-2021); Regulatory Attorney (2014-2018). |
| Kyra Patterson | 52 | Vice President and Chief People Officer (2025-); Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer, AVANGRID, Inc. (2021-2024); Vice President, People Operations, AVANGRID, Inc. (2020-2021); Vice President, Human Resources—Networks, AVANGRID, Inc. (2018-2020); Human Resources Director, AVANGRID, Inc. (2017-2018). |
| Melinda B. Rogers | 60 | Vice President, Chief Human Resources and Diversity Officer (2018-); Senior Director of Human Resources (2018); Senior Manager, Organizational Effectiveness and Talent Acquisition (2015-2017); Senior Associate, Point B (2014-2015); Director, Executive Development Center, Willamette University (2011-2014). |
| Kimberly Heiting Rush | 56 | President, NW Natural (2025-); Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer (2023-2025); Senior Vice President, Operations and Chief Marketing Officer (2018-2023); Senior Vice President, Communications and Chief Marketing Officer (2018); Vice President, Communications and Chief Marketing Officer (2014-2018); Chief Marketing and Communications Officer (2013-2014); Chief Corporate Communications Officer (2011-2013). |
| MardiLyn Saathoff\* | 69 | Chief Legal Officer and SVP Regulation<sup>(2)</sup> (2026-); General Counsel, Chief Compliance Officer and SVP Regulation, NW Holdings (2025-2026); Chief Legal Officer, Chief Compliance Officer and SVP Regulation, NW Natural (2025-2026); Senior Vice President, Regulation and General Counsel<sup>(2)(3)</sup> (2016-2025); Senior Vice President and General Counsel (2015-2016); Vice President, Legal, Risk and Compliance (2013-2014); Deputy General Counsel (2010-2013); Chief Governance Officer and Corporate Secretary (2008-2014).  |
| David A. Weber | 66 | Vice President, Gas Supply and Utility Support Services (2019-); President and Chief Executive Officer, NW Natural Gas Storage, LLC (2011-); President, KB Pipeline Company (2018-); Director, NWN Gas Reserves LLC (2018-2025); President and Chief Executive Officer, Gill Ranch Storage, LLC (2011-2020). |
| Kathryn M. Williams | 50 | Vice President, Chief Public Affairs and Sustainability Officer (2023-); Vice President, Public Affairs and Sustainability (2020-2023); Vice President, Public Affairs (2019-2020); Government and Community Affairs Director (2018-2019); State Affairs Manager, Port of Portland (2015-2018); Business and Rail Relations Manager, Port of Portland (2007-2015). |
| Brody J. Wilson\* | 46 | Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer, and Treasurer<sup>(2)</sup> (2017-); Controller (2013-2023; 2024-); Chief Financial Officer (Interim) (2023-2024), Chief Financial Officer (Interim), Treasurer (Interim), and Chief Accounting Officer (2016-2017); Chief Accounting Officer, Controller and Assistant Treasurer (2016); Acting Controller (2013); Accounting Director (2012-2013). |

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **DIRECTOR (NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY ONLY)\*\*** | **DIRECTOR (NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY ONLY)\*\*** | **DIRECTOR (NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY ONLY)\*\*** |
| Name | Age at <br>Dec. 31, 2025 | Positions held during last five years<sup>(1)</sup> |
| David Drinkward\*\* | 46 | President and Chief Executive Officer, Hoffman Construction Company (2018-); Executive Vice President, Hoffman Construction Company (2017-2018), Vice President, Hoffman Construction Company (2015-2017); Business Systems Manager, Hoffman Construction Company (2010-2015); Legal Counsel, Hoffman Construction Company (2007-2010). <br>Mr. Drinkward's progressive leadership at Hoffman Construction Company, culminating in service as President and Chief Executive Officer, enables him to provide insight and guidance to NW Natural in the areas of strategic planning, risk management, finance, safety and operations.  |

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\* Executive Officer of Northwest Natural Holding Company and Northwest Natural Gas Company.

\*\* Director of Northwest Natural Gas Company only. All other directors of Northwest Natural Gas Company are also directors of Northwest Natural Holding Company, and information regarding all directors concurrently serving on the Board of Directors of Northwest Natural Holding Company and Northwest Natural Gas Company will be incorporated by reference to our definitive Proxy Statement for the 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.

<sup>(1)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</sup>Unless otherwise specified, all positions held at Northwest Natural Gas Company.

<sup>(2)</sup> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Position held at Northwest Natural Holding Company and Northwest Natural Gas Company.

<sup>(3)</sup> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In 2020, Ms. Saathoff's title at Northwest Natural Holding Company changed from Senior Vice President and General Counsel to Senior Vice President, Regulation and General Counsel.

Each executive officer serves successive annual terms and thereafter until their successors have been duly elected or until their resignation or removal in accordance with the NW Holdings or NW Natural Bylaws, as applicable. There are no family relationships among our executive officers, directors or any person chosen to become one of our officers or directors. NW Holdings and NW Natural have adopted a Code of Ethics (Code) applicable to all employees, officers, and directors that is available on our website at <u>www.nwnaturalholdings.com</u>. We intend to disclose on our website at <u>www.nwnaturalholdings.com</u> any amendments to the Code or waivers of the Code for executive officers and directors. In addition, we have adopted insider trading policies and procedures governing the purchase, sale and other dispositions of NW Holdings' securities that apply to all of our directors, officers, employees and the Company, and have implemented processes for the Company that we believe are reasonably designed to promote compliance with insider trading laws, rules and regulations, as well as applicable listing standards. A copy of our policy is filed as Exhibit 19 to this report.

ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The information concerning "Executive Compensation", "Report of the Organization and Executive Compensation Committee", and "Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation" contained in NW Holdings' definitive Proxy Statement for the 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders is hereby incorporated by reference. Information related to Executive Officers as of December 31, 2025 is reflected in Part III, Item 10, above.

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ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

As of February 12, 2026, NW Holdings owned 100% of the outstanding common stock of NW Natural.

The following table sets forth information regarding compensation plans under which equity securities of NW Holdings are authorized for issuance as of December 31, 2025 (see Note 8 to the Consolidated Financial Statements):

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| | **(a)** | **(b)** | **(c)** |
| Plan Category | Number of securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights | Weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants and rights | Number of securities remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans (excluding securities reflected in column (a)) |
| Equity compensation plans approved by security holders: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Long Term Incentive Plan (LTIP) <sup>(1)(2)</sup> | 312140 | n/a | 1117110 |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Employee Stock Purchase Plan | 38137 | $39.73 | 183440 |
| Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders: |  |  |  |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Executive Deferred Compensation Plan (EDCP)<sup>(3)</sup> | 589 | n/a | n/a |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Directors Deferred Compensation Plan (DDCP)<sup>(3)</sup> | 24883 | n/a | n/a |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors and Executives (DCP)<sup>(4)</sup> | 239471 | n/a | n/a |
| Total | 615220 |  | 1300550 |

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<sup>(1)</sup> Awards may be granted under the LTIP as Performance Share Awards, Restricted Stock Units, or stock options. Shares issued pursuant to Performance Share Awards and Restricted Stock Units under the LTIP do not include an exercise price, but are payable when the award criteria are satisfied. The number of shares shown in column (a) include 138,536 Restricted Stock Units and 173,604 Performance Share Awards, reflecting the number of shares to be issued as performance share awards under outstanding Performance Share Awards if target performance levels are achieved. If the maximum awards were paid pursuant to the Performance Share Awards outstanding at December 31, 2025, the number of shares shown in column (a) would increase by 173,604 shares, reflecting the maximum share award of 200% of target, and the number of shares shown in column (c) would decrease by the same amount of shares. No stock options or other types of award have been issued under the LTIP.

<sup>(2)</sup> The number of shares shown in column (c) includes shares that are available for future issuance under the LTIP as Restricted Stock Units or Performance Share Awards at December 31, 2025.

<sup>(3)</sup> Prior to January 1, 2005, deferred amounts were credited, at the participant's election, to either a "cash account" or a "stock account." If deferred amounts were credited to stock accounts, such accounts were credited with a number of shares of NW Natural (now NW Holdings) common stock based on the purchase price of the common stock on the next purchase date under our Dividend Reinvestment and Direct Stock Purchase Plan, and such accounts were credited with additional shares based on the deemed reinvestment of dividends. Cash accounts are credited quarterly with interest at a rate equal to Moody's Average Corporate Bond Yield plus two percentage points, subject to a 6% minimum rate. At the election of the participant, deferred balances in the stock accounts are payable after termination of Board service or employment in a lump sum, in installments over a period not to exceed 10 years in the case of the DDCP, or 15 years in the case of the EDCP, or in a combination of lump sum and installments. Amounts credited to stock accounts are payable solely in shares of common stock and cash for fractional shares, and amounts in the above table represent the aggregate number of shares credited to participant's stock accounts. We have contributed common stock to the trustee of the Umbrella Trusts such that the Umbrella Trusts hold approximately the number of shares of common stock equal to the number of shares credited to all participants' stock accounts.

<sup>(4)</sup> Effective January 1, 2005, the EDCP and DDCP were closed to new participants and replaced with the DCP. The DCP continues the basic provisions of the EDCP and DDCP under which deferred amounts are credited to either a "cash account" or a "stock account." Stock accounts represent a right to receive shares of NW Holdings common stock on a deferred basis, and such accounts are credited with additional shares based on the deemed reinvestment of dividends. Effective January 1, 2007, cash accounts are credited quarterly with interest at a rate equal to Moody's Average Corporate Bond Yield. Our obligation to pay deferred compensation in accordance with the terms of the DCP will generally become due on a predetermined date during a participant's service if elected by such participant or on retirement, death, or other termination of service, and will be paid in a lump sum or in installments of five, 10, or 15 years as elected by the participant in accordance with the terms of the DCP. Amounts credited to stock accounts are payable solely in shares of common stock and cash for fractional shares, and amounts in the above table represent the aggregate number of shares credited to participants' stock accounts. We have contributed common stock to the trustee of the Supplemental Trust such that this trust holds approximately the number of common shares equal to the number of shares credited to all participants' stock accounts. Historically, we have satisfied NW Holdings' stock contributions to the Supplemental Trust through purchases of NW Holdings stock in the open market. In 2023, the board of directors of NW Holdings authorized the original issuance of NW Holdings shares to the Supplemental Trust in satisfaction of such contributions. As of December 31, 2025, 334,329 shares remained available for issuance under current authorizations. The right of each participant in the DCP is that of a general, unsecured creditor of NW Natural.

The information captioned "Beneficial Ownership of Common Stock by Directors and Executive Officers" and "Security Ownership of Common Stock of Certain Beneficial Owners" contained in NW Holdings' definitive Proxy Statement for the 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders is incorporated herein by reference.

------

ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

The information captioned "Transactions with Related Persons" and "Corporate Governance" in NW Holdings' definitive Proxy Statement for the 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders is hereby incorporated by reference.

ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

<u>NW Holdings</u>

The information captioned "2025 and 2024 Audit Firm Fees" in NW Holdings' definitive Proxy Statement for the 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders is hereby incorporated by reference.

<u>NW Natural</u>

The following table shows the fees and expenses of NW Natural, paid or accrued for the audits of the consolidated financial statements and other services provided by NW Natural's independent registered public accounting firm, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, for fiscal years 2025 and 2024:

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| *In thousands* | 2025 | 2024 |
| Audit Fees | $1656 | $1548 |
| Audit-Related Fees | 16 | 37 |
| Tax Fees | 21 | 22 |
| All Other Fees | 152 | 27 |
| Total | $1845 | $1634 |

---

**AUDIT FEES.** This category includes fees and expenses for services rendered for the integrated audit of the consolidated financial statements included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K and the review of the quarterly financial statements included in the Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. The integrated audit includes the review of our internal control over financial reporting in compliance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Sarbanes-Oxley Act). In addition, amounts include fees for services routinely provided by the auditor in connection with regulatory filings, including issuance of consents and comfort letters relating to the registration of Company securities and assistance with the review of documents filed with the SEC.

**AUDIT-RELATED FEES.** This category includes fees for assurance and related services that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit or review of our financial statements and internal control over financial reporting, including fees and expenses related to consultations for financial accounting and reporting, and fees for EPA assurance letters.

**TAX FEES.** This category includes fees for tax compliance, and review services rendered for NW Natural's income tax returns.

**ALL OTHER FEES.** This category relates to services other than those described above. The amount reflects payments for non-audit fees and services for SEC and California climate rules assessments and accounting research tools in each of 2025 and 2024.

**PRE-APPROVAL POLICY FOR AUDIT AND NON-AUDIT SERVICES.** The Audit Committee of NW Natural approved or ratified 100 percent of 2025 and 2024 services for audit, audit-related, tax services and all other fees, including audit services relating to compliance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. The chair of the Audit Committee of NW Natural is authorized to pre-approve non-audit services between meetings of the Audit Committee and must report such approvals at the next Audit Committee meeting.

PART IV

ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

(a)The following documents are filed as part of this report:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1.A list of all Financial Statements and Supplemental Schedules is incorporated by reference to Item 8.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.List of Exhibits filed:

Reference is made to the Exhibit Index commencing on page 156.

ITEM 16. FORM 10-K SUMMARY

None.

------

**NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY**

**NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY**

Exhibit Index to Annual Report on Form 10-K

For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2025

**<u>Exhibit Number</u>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Document</u>**

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| \*3a. | <u>[Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of Northwest Natural Holding Company (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Form 8-K dated October 1, 2018, File No. 1-38681).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/73020/000119312518288464/d627653dex31.htm)</u> |
| \*3b. | <u>[Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of Northwest Natural Gas Company (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3b to Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020, File No. 1-15973).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399821000006/exhibit3brestatedarticleso.htm)</u> |
| \*3c. | <u>[Amended and Restated Bylaws of Northwest Natural Holding Company (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Form 8-K dated July 25, 2025, File No. 1-38681).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000125/ex31northwestnaturalholdin.htm)</u> |
| \*3d. | <u>[Amended and Restated Bylaws of Northwest Natural Gas Company (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, File No. 1-15973).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000132/exh32-nwngasxbylawsjuly2025.htm)</u> |
| \*4a. | Copy of Mortgage and Deed of Trust of Northwest Natural Gas Company, dated as of July 1, 1946 (Mortgage and Deed of Trust), to Bankers Trust (to whom Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas is the successor), Trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 7(j) in File No. 2-6494); and copies of Supplemental Indentures Nos. 1 through 14 to the Mortgage and Deed of Trust, dated respectively, as of June 1, 1949, March 1, 1954, April 1, 1956, February 1, 1959, July 1, 1961, January 1, 1964, March 1, 1966, December 1, 1969, April 1, 1971, January 1, 1975, December 1, 1975, July 1, 1981, June 1, 1985 and November 1, 1985 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(d) in File No. 33-1929); Supplemental Indenture No. 15 to the Mortgage and Deed of Trust, dated as of July 1, 1986 (filed as Exhibit 4(c) in File No. 33-24168); Supplemental Indentures Nos. 16, 17 and 18 to the Mortgage and Deed of Trust, dated, respectively, as of November 1, 1988, October 1, 1989 and July 1, 1990 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(c) in File No. 33-40482); Supplemental Indenture No. 19 to the Mortgage and Deed of Trust, dated as of June 1, 1991 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(c) in File No. 33-64014). |
| \*4b. | <u>[Supplemental Indenture No. 20 to the Mortgage and Deed of Trust, dated as of June 1, 1993 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4a.(1) to Form 10-K for year ended December 31, 1993, File No. 0-00994).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/73020/0000073020-94-000009.txt)</u> |
| \*4c. | <u>[Supplemental Indenture No. 21 to the Mortgage and Deed of Trust, dated as of October 15, 2012 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Form 8-K dated October 26, 2012, File No. 1-15973).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/73020/000119312512444189/d431686dex41.htm)</u> |
| \*4d. | <u>[Supplemental Indenture No. 22 to the Mortgage and Deed of Trust, dated as of November 1, 2016 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2016, File No. 1-15973).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/73020/000007302016000075/ex41q32016.htm)</u> |
| \*4e. | <u>[Supplemental Indenture No. 23 to the Mortgage and Deed of Trust, dated as of September 1, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(a) to Form 8-K dated September 10, 2018, File No. 1-15973).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/73020/000007302018000033/ex4a23rdsupplementalindent.htm)</u> |
| \*4f. | <u>[Twenty-fourth Supplemental Indenture, providing for, among other things, First Mortgage Bonds, 4.78% Series due 2052, dated as of September 1, 2022, by and between Northwest Natural Gas Company and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Form 8-K filed September 30, 2022, file No. 1-15973).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399822000037/exhibit41supplementalinden.htm)</u> |
| \*4g. | <u>[Twenty-fifth Supplemental Indenture, providing for, among other things, First Mortgage Bonds, 5.43% Series due 2053, dated as of December 1, 2022, by and between Northwest Natural Gas Company and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Form 8-K dated December 1, 2022, File No. 1-15973).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399823000003/exhibit41nwn25thsupplement.htm)</u> |
| \*4h. | <u>[Twenty-sixth Supplemental Indenture, providing for, among other things, First Mortgage Bonds, 5.18% Series due 2034 and 5.23% Series due 2038, dated as of July 1, 2023, by and between Northwest Natural Gas Company and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Form 8-K filed August 7, 2023, file No. 1-15973).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399823000044/conformed-26thsupplemental.htm)</u> |

---

------

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| \*4i. | <u>[Supplemental Indenture No. 27 to the Mortgage and Deed of Trust, dated as of July 1, 2024 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4 to the Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, File No. 1-15973).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/0001733998/000173399824000093/ex42024q2.htm)</u> |
| \*4j. | <u>[Twenty-eighth Supplemental Indenture to the Mortgage and Deed of Trust,](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000191/ex41-nwnaturalx28thsupplem.htm)[providing for, among other things](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000191/ex41-nwnaturalx28thsupplem.htm)[,](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000191/ex41-nwnaturalx28thsupplem.htm)[First Mortgage Bonds, 5.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000191/ex41-nwnaturalx28thsupplem.htm)[13](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000191/ex41-nwnaturalx28thsupplem.htm)[% Series due 203](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000191/ex41-nwnaturalx28thsupplem.htm)[6](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000191/ex41-nwnaturalx28thsupplem.htm)[and 5.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000191/ex41-nwnaturalx28thsupplem.htm)[90](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000191/ex41-nwnaturalx28thsupplem.htm)[% Series due 20](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000191/ex41-nwnaturalx28thsupplem.htm)[55](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000191/ex41-nwnaturalx28thsupplem.htm)[, dated as of](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000191/ex41-nwnaturalx28thsupplem.htm)[December](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000191/ex41-nwnaturalx28thsupplem.htm)[1, 202](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000191/ex41-nwnaturalx28thsupplem.htm)[5](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000191/ex41-nwnaturalx28thsupplem.htm)[, by and between Northwest Natural Gas Company and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000191/ex41-nwnaturalx28thsupplem.htm)[(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Form 8-K dated December 16, 2025, File No. 1-15973).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000191/ex41-nwnaturalx28thsupplem.htm)</u> |
| \*4k. | Copy of Indenture, dated as of June 1, 1991, between Northwest Natural Gas Company and Bankers Trust Company (to whom Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas is successor), Trustee, relating to Northwest Natural Gas Company's Unsecured Debt Securities (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(e) in File No. 33-64014). |
| \*4l. | <u>[Indenture (For Unsecured Subordinated Debt Securities) dated as of March 1, 2025 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(a) to the Form 8-K filed March 18, 2025, File No. 1-38681).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000078/ex4aindenture.htm)</u> |
| \*4m | <u>[Officer's Certificate dated as of March 12, 2025, establishing the terms of the Junior Subordinated Debentures](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000078/ex4bofficerscertificate.htm)[S](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000078/ex4bofficerscertificate.htm)[upplemental to the Indentur](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000078/ex4bofficerscertificate.htm)[e (incorporated by reference Exhibit 4(b) to the Form 8-K filed March 18, 202](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000078/ex4bofficerscertificate.htm)[5.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000078/ex4bofficerscertificate.htm)</u> |
| \*4n. | <u>[Description of Northwest Natural Holding Company's Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(c) to the Form 8-K filed March 18, 2025, File No. 1-38681).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000078/ex4cdescriptionofcommonsto.htm)</u> |
| \*4o. | <u>[Note Purchase Agreement dated December 14, 2023, between Northwest Natural Holding Company and the institutional investors named as purchasers therein (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4q to Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/0001733998/000173399824000011/ex4qnotepurchaseagreement.htm)</u> |
| \*4p. | <u>[Note Purchase Agreement dated December 19, 2024, between Northwest Natural Holding Company and the institutional investors named as purchasers therein](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000020/ex4s2024notepurchaseagre.htm)[(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000020/ex4s2024notepurchaseagre.htm)[s](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000020/ex4s2024notepurchaseagre.htm)[to Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 202](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000020/ex4s2024notepurchaseagre.htm)[4](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000020/ex4s2024notepurchaseagre.htm)[).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000020/ex4s2024notepurchaseagre.htm)</u> |
| \*10a. | <u>[Credit Agreement, dated as of June 10, 2021, among NW Natural Water Company, LLC, Northwest Natural Holding Company, the lenders party thereto, and Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Form 8-K filed June 14, 2021, File No. 1-38681).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/73020/000173399821000017/exhibit42nwnwatertermloan.htm)</u> |
| \*10b. | <u>[Uncommitted Letter of Credit and Reimbursement Agreement dated January 5, 2024, among Northwest Natural Gas Company, the lenders party thereto, and Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, New York Branch, as administrative agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4r to Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, File No. 1-15973).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/0001733998/000173399824000011/ex4rnorthwestnaturalcibc.htm)</u> |
| \*10c. | <u>[Term Loan Credit Agreement, dated as of January 6, 2025 among Northwest Natural Holding Company, the lenders party thereto, with U.S. Bank National Association, as administrative agent and sole bookrunner and lead arranger](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000020/ex4tusbanknorthwestnatur.htm)[(inc](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000020/ex4tusbanknorthwestnatur.htm)[orporated by reference to Exhibit 4](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000020/ex4tusbanknorthwestnatur.htm)[t](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000020/ex4tusbanknorthwestnatur.htm)[to Form 10-K for the](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000020/ex4tusbanknorthwestnatur.htm)[year ended December 31, 2](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000020/ex4tusbanknorthwestnatur.htm)[024, File No.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000020/ex4tusbanknorthwestnatur.htm)[1-38681](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000020/ex4tusbanknorthwestnatur.htm)[)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000020/ex4tusbanknorthwestnatur.htm)</u> |
| \*10d. | <u>[Amendment No. 1 to Term Loan Agreement, dated as of November 3, 2025, among Northwest Natural Holding Company, the lenders party thereto, with U.S. Bank National Association, as administrative agent and sole bookrunner and lead arranger](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000176/ex105northwestnaturalterml.htm)[(](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000176/ex105northwestnaturalterml.htm)[incorporated by reference to Exhibit](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000176/ex105northwestnaturalterml.htm)[10.5](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000176/ex105northwestnaturalterml.htm)[to Form 10-](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000176/ex105northwestnaturalterml.htm)[Q](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000176/ex105northwestnaturalterml.htm)[for the](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000176/ex105northwestnaturalterml.htm)[quarter](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000176/ex105northwestnaturalterml.htm)[ended](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000176/ex105northwestnaturalterml.htm)[September 3](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000176/ex105northwestnaturalterml.htm)[0, 2025](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000176/ex105northwestnaturalterml.htm)[, File No.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000176/ex105northwestnaturalterml.htm)[1-38681)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000176/ex105northwestnaturalterml.htm)[.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000176/ex105northwestnaturalterml.htm)</u> |
| \*10e. | <u>[Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of November 3, 2025, among Northwest Natural Holding Company and the lenders party thereto, with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. as administrative agent and Bank of America, N.A., U.S. Bank National Association, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as co-syndication agents (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2025, File No. 1-](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000176/ex102northwestnaturalholdc.htm)[38681](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000176/ex102northwestnaturalholdc.htm)[).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000176/ex102northwestnaturalholdc.htm)</u> |
| \*10f. | <u>[Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of November 3, 2025, among Northwest Natural Gas Company and the lenders party thereto, with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. as administrative agent and Bank of America, N.A., U.S. Bank National Association, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as co-syndication agents (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2025, File No. 1-15973).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000176/ex103nwnopcosecondamendeda.htm)</u> |

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------

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| \*10g. | <u>[Credit Agreement, dated as of November 3, 2025, among SiEnergy Holding, LLC and the lenders party thereto, with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. as administrative agent and Bank of America, N.A., U.S. Bank National Association, and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as co-syndication agents (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2025, File No. 1-](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000176/ex104nwnsienergy2025credit.htm)[38681](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000176/ex104nwnsienergy2025credit.htm)[).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000176/ex104nwnsienergy2025credit.htm)</u> |
| 19 | <u>[Northwest Natural Holding Company Inside Information and Trading Policies and Procedures](ex19nwninsidertradingpolic.htm)</u>. |
| 21 | <u>[Subsidiaries of Northwest Natural Holding Company.](ex2112312025.htm)</u> |
| 23a. | <u>[Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP - NW Holdings.](ex23a2025consentofpublicac.htm)</u> |
| 23b. | <u>[Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP - NW Natural.](ex23b2025consentofpublicac.htm)</u> |
| 31.1 | <u>[Certification of Principal Executive Officer of Northwest Natural Gas Company Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a), Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.](ex311q42025_ceo.htm)</u> |
| 31.2 | <u>[Certification of Principal Financial Officer of Northwest Natural Gas Company Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a), Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.](ex312q42025_cfo.htm)</u> |
| 31.3 | <u>[Certification of Principal Executive Officer of Northwest Natural Holding Company Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a), Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.](ex313q42025_ceo.htm)</u> |
| 31.4 | <u>[Certification of Principal Financial Officer of Northwest Natural Holding Company Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a), Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.](ex314q42025_cfo.htm)</u> |
| \*\*32.1 | <u>[Certification of Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer of Northwest Natural Gas Company Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.](ex321q42025_ceocfo.htm)</u> |
| \*\*32.2 | <u>[Certification of Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer of Northwest Natural Holding Company Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.](ex322q42025_ceocfo.htm)</u> |
| \*97 | <u>[Northwest Natural Holding Company Compensation Recovery Policy, effective as of December 1, 2023 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 97 to Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, File No. 1-38681).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/0001733998/000173399824000011/ex97compensationclawbackpo.htm)</u> |
| 101 | The following materials formatted in Inline Extensible Business Reporting Language (Inline XBRL):<br>(i) Consolidated Statements of Income;<br>(ii) Consolidated Balance Sheets;<br>(iii) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows; and<br>(iv) Related notes. |
| 104 | The cover page from the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, formatted in Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101. |
| Executive Compensation Plans and Arrangements: | Executive Compensation Plans and Arrangements: |
| \*10h. | <u>[Executive Supplemental Retirement Income Plan, 2018 Restatement (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to the Form 8-K dated October 1, 2018, File No. 1-38681).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/73020/000119312518288464/d627653dex106.htm)</u> |
| \*10i. | <u>[Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan of Northwest Natural Gas Company, 2018 Restatement, as amended July 25, 2019 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2019, File No. 1-15973).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/73020/000173399819000030/ex101nwnserpamndmt.htm)</u> |
| \*10j. | <u>[Northwest Natural Gas Company Supplemental Trust, effective January 1, 2005, restated as of October 1, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to the Form 8-K dated October 1, 2018, File No. 1-38681).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/73020/000119312518288464/d627653dex109.htm)</u> |

---

------

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| \*10k. | <u>[Northwest Natural Gas Company Umbrella Trust for Directors, effective January 1, 1991, restated as of October 1, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 to the Form 8-K dated October 1, 2018, File No. 1-38681).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/73020/000119312518288464/d627653dex1011.htm)</u> |
| \*10l. | <u>[Northwest Natural Gas Company Umbrella Trust for Executives, effective January 1, 1988, restated as of October 1, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to the Form 8-K dated October 1, 2018, File No. 1-38681).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/73020/000119312518288464/d627653dex1010.htm)</u> |
| \*10m. | <u>[Executive Deferred Compensation Plan, effective as of January 1, 1987, restated as of October 1, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Form 8-K dated October 1, 2018, File No. 1-38681).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/73020/000119312518288464/d627653dex104.htm)</u> |
| \*10n. | <u>[Directors Deferred Compensation Plan, effective June 1, 1981, restated as of October 1, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the Form 8-K dated October 1, 2018, File No. 1-38681).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/73020/000119312518288464/d627653dex105.htm)</u> |
| \*10o. | <u>[Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors and Executives, effective January 1, 2005, restated as of August 1, 2025 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, File No. 1-38681).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000132/ex101dcpplanrestatementaug.htm)</u> |
| \*10p. | <u>[Form of Indemnity Agreement as entered into between Northwest Natural Gas Company and each director and certain executive officers (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 10-Q the quarter ended September 30, 2023, File No. 1-15973).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399823000067/ex101nwnaturalformofindemn.htm)</u> |
| \*10q. | <u>[Form of Indemnity Agreement as entered into between Northwest Natural Holding Company and each director and certain executive officers (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2023, File No. 1-38681).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399823000067/ex102nwholdingsformofindem.htm)</u> |
| \*10r. | <u>[Executive Annual Incentive Plan, effective February 22, 2024 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10m to Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, File No. 1-15973).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/0001733998/000173399824000011/ex10mnorthwestnaturalgasco.htm)</u> |
| \*10s. | <u>[2025](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000020/ex10mexecutiveannualince.htm)[Executive Annual Incentive Plan, effective January 1, 2025 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10m to Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, File No. 1-15973)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000020/ex10mexecutiveannualince.htm)[.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000020/ex10mexecutiveannualince.htm)</u> |
| 10t. | <u>[2026 Executive Annual Incentive Plan, effective January 1, 2026.](exhibit10t-executiveannu.htm)</u> |
| \*10u. | <u>[Form of Change in Control Severance Agreement between Northwest Natural Gas Company and David Anderson, as amended and restated as of February 23, 2023 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10o to Form 10-K for 2022, File No. 1-15973).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399823000009/ex10oformofchangeinctrlsev.htm)</u> |
| \*10v. | <u>[Form of Change in Control Severance Agreement between Northwest Natural Gas Company and Justin B. Palfreyman, as amended and restated as of February 27, 2025 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10o to Form 10-K for 2024, File No. 1-15973).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000020/ex10oamendedandrestatedcic.htm)</u> |
| \*10w. | <u>[Form of Change in Control Severance Agreement between Northwest Natural Gas Company and each executive officer (other than David Anderson and Justin Palfreyman), as amended and restated as of February 23, 2023 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10p to Form 10-K for 2022, File No. 1-15973).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399823000009/ex10pformofchangeinctrlsev.htm)</u> |
| \*10x. | <u>[Northwest Natural Holding Company Long Term Incentive Plan, as amended and restated as of October 1, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K dated October 1, 2018, File No. 1-38681).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000119312518288466/d625042dex101.htm)</u> |
| \*10y. | <u>[Northwest Natural Holding Company Long Term Incentive Plan, as amended and restated as of February 23, 2023 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10s to Form 10-K for 2022, File No. 1-38681).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399823000009/ex10snorthwestnaturalholdi.htm)</u> |
| \*10z. | <u>[Northwest Natural Holding Company Long Term Incentive Plan, as amended and restated as of February 22, 2024 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10s to Form 10-K for 2023, File No. 1-38681).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/0001733998/000173399824000011/ex10snorthwestnaturalholdi.htm)</u> |
| \*10aa. | <u>[Northwest Natural Holding Company Long Term Incentive Plan, as amended and restated as of](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000108/exhibit101nwholdingsltip.htm)[May](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000108/exhibit101nwholdingsltip.htm)[22, 202](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000108/exhibit101nwholdingsltip.htm)[5](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000108/exhibit101nwholdingsltip.htm)[(incorporated by reference to Exhibit](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000108/exhibit101nwholdingsltip.htm)[10.1](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000108/exhibit101nwholdingsltip.htm)[to](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000108/exhibit101nwholdingsltip.htm)[the](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000108/exhibit101nwholdingsltip.htm)[Form](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000108/exhibit101nwholdingsltip.htm)[8](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000108/exhibit101nwholdingsltip.htm)[-K](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000108/exhibit101nwholdingsltip.htm)[filed May 27, 2025](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000108/exhibit101nwholdingsltip.htm)[, File No. 1-38681).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000108/exhibit101nwholdingsltip.htm)</u> |
| \*10bb. | <u>[Form of Performance Share Long Term Incentive Agreement under Long Term Incentive Plan (2023-2025) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10x to Form 10-K for 2022, File No.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399823000009/ex10xperformancesharelongt.htm)[1-38681](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399823000009/ex10xperformancesharelongt.htm)[).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399823000009/ex10xperformancesharelongt.htm)</u> |

---

------

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| \*10cc. | <u>[Form of Performance Share Long Term Incentive Agreement under Long Term Incentive Plan (2024-2026) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10x to the Form 10-K for 2023, File No. 1-38681).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/0001733998/000173399824000011/ex10xperformancesharelongt.htm)</u> |
| \*10dd. | <u>[Form of Performance Share Long Term Incentive Agreement under Long Term Incentive Plan (2025-2027)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000020/ex10xnwn2025-2027pspgranta.htm)[(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10x to the Form 10-K for 2024, File No. 1-38681)](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000020/ex10xnwn2025-2027pspgranta.htm)[.](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000020/ex10xnwn2025-2027pspgranta.htm)</u> |
| 10ee. | <u>[Form of Performance Share Long Term Incentive Agreement under Long Term Incentive Plan (2026-2028).](exhibit10ee-redactedxformo.htm)</u> |
| \*10ff. | <u>[Form of Consent dated December 14, 2006 entered into by each executive officer with respect to amendments to the Executive Supplemental Retirement Income Plan, the Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan and certain change in control severance agreements (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K dated December 19, 2006, File No. 1-15973).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/73020/000119312506256107/dex101.htm)</u> |
| \*10gg. | <u>[Consent to Amendment of Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors and Executives, dated February 28, 2008 entered into by each executive officer (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10bb to Form 10-K for 2007, File No. 1-15973).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/73020/000119312508043700/dex10bb.htm)</u> |
| 10hh. | <u>[Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement under Long Term Incentive Plan (2026)](exhibit10hhformof2026rsuag.htm)</u> |
| \*10ii. | <u>[Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement under Long Term Incentive Plan (2025) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10aa to the Form 10-K for 2024, File No. 1-38681).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399825000020/ex10aarsuofficer_non-offic.htm)</u> |
| \*10jj. | <u>[Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement under Long Term Incentive Plan (2024) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10bb to Form 10-K for 2023, File No. 1-38681).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/0001733998/000173399824000011/ex10bb2024rsuofficernon-of.htm)</u> |
| \*10kk. | <u>[Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement under Long Term Incentive Plan (2023) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10bb to Form 10-K for 2022, File No. 1-38681).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399823000009/ex10bbformofrestrictedstoc.htm)</u> |
| \*10ll. | <u>[Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement under Long Term Incentive Plan (2022) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10z to Form 10-K for 2021, File No. 1-38681).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1733998/000173399822000005/ex10z-2022rsuofficergranta.htm)</u> |
| \*10mm. | <u>[Form of Amendment of Award Agreements, dated February 22, 2024, entered into by each executive officer (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10gg to Form 10-K for 2023, File No. File No. 1-38681).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/0001733998/000173399824000011/ex10ggamendmentofawardagre.htm)</u> |
| \*10nn. | <u>[Special Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement between Northwest Natural Holding Company and an executive officer, dated September 1, 2024 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10b to the Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2024, File No. 1-38681).](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/0001733998/000173399824000125/ex10b2024q3.htm)</u> |
| \*10oo. | <u>[Special Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement between Northwest Natural Holding Company and an executive officer, dated March 1, 2025.](exhibit10oo-redactedxspeci.htm)</u> |

---

\*Incorporated by reference as indicated

\*\*Pursuant to Item 601(b)(32)(ii) of Regulation S-K, this certificate is not being "filed" for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

------

***SIGNATURES***

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, each registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized. The signature for each undersigned company shall be deemed to relate only to matters having reference to such company and its subsidiaries.

**NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY**

<u>By: /s/ Justin B. Palfreyman</u>

Justin B. Palfreyman

Chief Executive Officer

Date: February 27, 2026&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

**NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY**

<u>By: /s/ Justin B. Palfreyman</u>

Justin B. Palfreyman

Chief Executive Officer

Date: February 27, 2026&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

------

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the date indicated. The signatures of each of the undersigned shall be deemed to relate only to matters having reference to the below named company and its subsidiaries.

**NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY**

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Signature** | **Title** |
| /s/ Justin B. Palfreyman | Principal Executive Officer and Director |
| Justin B. Palfreyman<br>Chief Executive Officer |  |
| /s/ Raymond Kaszuba III | Principal Financial Officer |
| Raymond Kaszuba III<br>Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer |  |
| /s/ Brody J. Wilson | Principal Accounting Officer |
| Brody J. Wilson<br>Vice President, Treasurer, Chief Accounting Officer and Controller |  |
| /s/ David H. Anderson | Director |
| David H. Anderson |  |
| /s/ Peter J. Bragdon | Director |
| Peter J. Bragdon |  |
| /s/ Monica Enand | Director |
| Monica Enand |  |
| /s/ Karen Lee | Director |
| Karen Lee |  |
| /s/ Mary E. Ludford | Director |
| Mary E. Ludford |  |
| /s/ Sandra McDonough | Director |
| Sandra McDonough |  |
| /s/ Nathan I. Partain | Director |
| Nathan I. Partain |  |
| /s/ Jane L. Peverett | Director |
| Jane L. Peverett |  |
| /s/ Malia H. Wasson | Director |
| Malia H. Wasson |  |
| /s/ Charles A. Wilhoite | Director |
| Charles A. Wilhoite |  |

---

------

**NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY**

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Signature** | **Title** |
| /s/ Justin B. Palfreyman | Principal Executive Officer and Director |
| Justin B. Palfreyman<br>Chief Executive Officer |  |
| /s/ Raymond Kaszuba III | Principal Financial Officer |
| Raymond Kaszuba III<br>Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer |  |
| /s/ Brody J. Wilson | Principal Accounting Officer |
| Brody J. Wilson<br>Vice President, Treasurer, Chief Accounting Officer and Controller |  |
| /s/ David H. Anderson | Director |
| David H. Anderson |  |
| /s/ Peter J. Bragdon | Director |
| Peter J. Bragdon |  |
| /s/ David Drinkward | Director |
| David Drinkward |  |
| /s/ Monica Enand | Director |
| Monica Enand |  |
| /s/ Karen Lee | Director |
| Karen Lee |  |
| /s/ Mary E. Ludford | Director |
| Mary E. Ludford |  |
| /s/ Sandra McDonough | Director |
| Sandra McDonough |  |
| /s/ Nathan I. Partain | Director |
| Nathan I. Partain |  |
| /s/ Jane L. Peverett | Director |
| Jane L. Peverett |  |
| /s/ Malia H. Wasson | Director |
| Malia H. Wasson |  |
| /s/ Charles A. Wilhoite | Director |
| Charles A. Wilhoite |  |

---

## Ex-10.Ee

**EXHIBIT 10ee**

PERFORMANCE SHARE LONG TERM INCENTIVE AGREEMENT

This Agreement is entered into as of February __, 2026, between Northwest Natural Holding Company, an Oregon corporation (the "Company"), and ____________ ("Recipient").

On February 25, 2026, the Organization and Executive Compensation Committee (the "Committee") of the Company's Board of Directors (the "Board") authorized a performance-based stock award (the "Award") to Recipient pursuant to Section 6 of the Company's Long Term Incentive Plan (the "Plan"). Recipient desires to accept the Award subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement. Capitalized terms used but not defined in this Agreement have the meanings assigned to them in the Plan.

NOW, THEREFORE, the parties agree as follows:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1.<u>Award</u>. Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, the Company shall issue or otherwise deliver to Recipient the number of shares of Common Stock (the "Performance Shares") determined under this Agreement based on (a) the performance of the Company during the three-year period from January 1, 2026 to December 31, 2028 (the "Award Period") as described in Section 2 and (b) Recipient's continued employment during the Award Period as described in Section 3. If the Company issues or otherwise delivers Performance Shares to Recipient, the Company shall also pay to Recipient the amount of cash determined under Section 4 (the "Dividend Equivalent Cash Award"). Recipient's "Target Share Amount" for purposes of this Agreement is __________ shares.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.<u>Performance Conditions</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.1<u>Payout Factor</u>. Subject to possible reduction under Section 3, the number of Performance Shares to be issued or otherwise delivered to Recipient shall be determined by multiplying the Payout Factor (as defined below) by the Target Share Amount. The "Payout Factor" shall be equal to (a) the TSR Modifier as determined under Section 2.2, multiplied by (b) the EPS Payout Factor as determined under Section 2.3; provided, however, that the Payout Factor shall not be greater than 200% and the Payout Factor shall be 0% if the ROIC Performance Threshold (as defined in Section 2.4) is not satisfied. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if a Change in Control (as defined in Section 3.7) occurs before the last day of the Award Period, the Payout Factor shall be 100%.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.2<u>TSR Modifier</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)The "TSR Modifier" shall be determined under the table below based on the TSR Percentile Rank (as defined below) of the Company:

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| TSR Percentile Rank | TSR Modifier |
| less than 25% | 75% |
| 25% to 75% | 100% |
| more than 75% | 125% |

---

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)To determine the Company's "TSR Percentile Rank," the TSR of the Company and each of the Peer Group Companies (as defined below) shall be calculated, and the Peer Group Companies shall be ranked based on their respective TSRs from lowest to highest. If the Company's TSR is equal to the TSR of any other Peer Group Company, the Company's TSR Percentile Rank shall be equal to the number of Peer Group Companies with a

------

lower TSR divided by the number that is one less than the total number of Peer Group Companies, with the resulting amount expressed as a percentage and rounded to the nearest tenth of a percentage point. If the Company's TSR is between the TSRs of any two Peer Group Companies, the TSR Percentile Ranks of those two Peer Group Companies shall be determined as set forth in the preceding sentence, and the Company's TSR Percentile Rank shall be interpolated as follows. The excess of the Company's TSR over the TSR of the lower Peer Group Company shall be divided by the excess of the TSR of the higher Peer Group Company over the TSR of the lower Peer Group Company. The resulting fraction shall be multiplied by the difference between the TSR Percentile Ranks of the two Peer Group Companies. The product of that calculation shall be added to the TSR Percentile Rank of the lower Peer Group Company, and the resulting sum (rounded to the nearest tenth of a percentage point) shall be the Company's TSR Percentile Rank. The intent of this definition of TSR Percentile Rank is to produce the same result as calculated using the PERCENTRANK function in Microsoft Excel to determine the rank of the Company's TSR within the array consisting of the TSRs of the Peer Group Companies.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c)The "Peer Group Companies" consist of those companies set forth on Exhibit A that continue to have publicly-traded common stock through December 31, 2028.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d)The "TSR" for the Company and each Peer Group Company shall be calculated by (1) assuming that $100 is invested in the common stock of the company at a price equal to the average of the closing market prices of the stock for the period from October 1, 2025 to December 31, 2025, (2) assuming that for each dividend paid on the stock during the Award Period, the amount equal to the dividend paid on the assumed number of shares held is reinvested in additional shares at a price equal to the closing market price of the stock on the ex-dividend date for the dividend, and (3) determining the final dollar value of the total assumed number of shares based on the average of the closing market prices of the stock for the period from October 1, 2028 to December 31, 2028. The "TSR" shall then equal the amount determined by subtracting $100 from the foregoing final dollar value, dividing the result by 100 and expressing the resulting fraction as a percentage.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e)If during the Award Period any Peer Group Company enters into an agreement pursuant to which all or substantially all of the stock or assets of the Peer Group Company will be acquired by a third party (a "Signed Acquisition"), and if the Signed Acquisition is not completed by the end of the Award Period, then that company shall not be a Peer Group Company. If a Signed Acquisition of a Peer Group Company is terminated (other than in connection with the execution of another Signed Acquisition) before the end of the Award Period, then that company shall remain a Peer Group Company, and the TSR for that Peer Group Company shall be calculated as provided in Section 2.2(d), except that if the announcement of the termination of the Signed Acquisition occurs during the last three months of the Award Period, for purposes of determining the final dollar value under clause (3) of Section 2.2(d), the three-month period for which closing market prices are averaged shall be shortened to exclude any trading days preceding the announcement of the termination of the Signed Acquisition.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.3<u>EPS Payout Factor</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)The "EPS Payout Factor" shall be determined under the table below based on the Cumulative EPS Achievement Percentage (as defined below) achieved by the Company for the Award Period:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2

------

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Cumulative EPS Achievement Percentage | <br>EPS Payout Factor |
| less than 93% | 0% |
| 93% | 40% |
| 100% | 100% |
| 105% or more | 185% |

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If the Company's Cumulative EPS Achievement Percentage is between any two data points set forth in the first column of the above table, the EPS Payout Factor shall be interpolated as follows. The excess of the Company's Cumulative EPS Achievement Percentage over the Cumulative EPS Achievement Percentage of the lower data point shall be divided by the excess of the Cumulative EPS Achievement Percentage of the higher data point over the Cumulative EPS Achievement Percentage of the lower data point. The resulting fraction shall be multiplied by the difference between the EPS Payout Factors in the above table corresponding to the two data points. The product of that calculation shall be rounded to the nearest hundredth of a percentage point and then added to the EPS Payout Factor in the above table corresponding to the lower data point, and the resulting sum shall be the EPS Payout Factor.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)The Company's "Cumulative EPS Achievement Percentage" for the Award Period shall equal the Cumulative EPS (as defined below) divided by the Cumulative EPS Target (as defined below), expressed as a percentage and rounded to the nearest tenth of a percentage point.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c)The Company's "Cumulative EPS" for the Award Period shall equal the sum of the Company's diluted earnings per share of common stock ("EPS") for each of the three years in the Award Period. Subject to adjustment in accordance with Section 2.5, the Company's diluted earnings per share of common stock for any year shall be as set forth in the audited consolidated financial statements of the Company and its subsidiaries for that year. After giving effect to any adjustments required by Section 2.5, the EPS for each year shall be rounded to the nearest penny.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d)The Company's "Cumulative EPS Target" for the Award Period shall equal the sum of the EPS targets approved by the Committee for each of the three years in the Award Period. The EPS target for the first year of the Award Period as approved by the Committee is $_____. Within the first 90 days of the second year of the Award Period, the Committee shall approve the EPS target for that year. Within the first 90 days of the third year of the Award Period, the Committee shall approve the EPS target for that year.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.4<u>ROIC Performance Threshold</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)For purposes of this Agreement, the "ROIC Performance Threshold" shall be satisfied if the Company's Average ROIC (as defined below) for the Award Period is greater than or equal to _____%.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)The Company's "Average ROIC" for the Award Period shall equal the simple average of the Company's ROIC (as defined below) for each of the three years in the Award Period, rounded to the nearest hundredth of a percentage point. The Company's "ROIC" for any year shall be calculated by dividing the Company's Adjusted Net Income (as defined below) for the year by the Company's Average Long Term Capital (as defined below) for the

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year, and rounding the result to the nearest hundredth of a percentage point. Subject to adjustment in accordance with Section 2.5 below, the Company's "Adjusted Net Income" for any year shall be equal to the Company's net income for the year, increased by the Company's interest expense, net for the year and reduced by the Company's interest income (including net interest on deferred regulatory accounts) for the year, in each case as set forth in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for that year. "Average Long Term Capital" for any year shall mean the average of the Company's Long Term Capital (as defined below) as of the last day of the year and the Company's Long Term Capital as of the last day of the prior year. Subject to adjustment in accordance with Section 2.5, "Long Term Capital" as of any date shall equal the sum of the Company's total shareholders' equity as of that date and the Company's long-term debt (including current maturities) as of that date, in each case as set forth on the audited consolidated balance sheet of the Company as of that date.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.5<u>EPS and ROIC Adjustments</u>. The Committee may, at any time, approve adjustments to the calculation of Cumulative EPS and/or Average ROIC to take into account such unanticipated circumstances or significant, non-recurring or unplanned events as the Committee may determine in its sole discretion, and such adjustments may increase or decrease Cumulative EPS and/or Average ROIC. Possible circumstances that may be the basis for adjustments shall include, but not be limited to, any change in applicable accounting rules or principles; any gain or loss on the disposition of a business; impairment of assets; dilution caused by Board approved business acquisition; tax changes and tax impacts of other changes; changes in applicable laws and regulations; changes in rate case timing; changes in the Company's structure; and any other circumstances outside of management's control.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.<u>Employment Condition</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.1Except as provided in Sections 3.2, 3.3 or 7.2, in order to receive a payout of Performance Shares, Recipient must be employed by the Company or any parent or subsidiary of the Company (the "Employer") on the last day of the Award Period.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.2If Recipient's employment (i) by the Employer is terminated at any time prior to the end of the Award Period because of death, physical disability (within the meaning of Section 22(e)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the regulations and guidance promulgated thereunder (the "Code")), or Retirement (unless such Retirement results from a termination of Recipient's employment by the Employer for Cause) or (ii) by the Employer employing Recipient on the date of this Agreement (the "Current Employer") is terminated at any time prior to the end of the Award Period in order to move Recipient's employment from the Current Employer to the Company or any parent or subsidiary of the Company other than the Current Employer (an "Employer Change") and subject to Section 4(d) of the Plan, Recipient shall be entitled to receive a pro-rated award. The number of Performance Shares to be issued or otherwise delivered as a pro-rated award under this Section 3.2 shall be determined by multiplying the number of Performance Shares determined under Section 2 by a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of days Recipient was employed by the Employer or the Current Employer, as applicable, during the Award Period and the denominator of which is the number of days in the Award Period. If Recipient's employment by the Employer or the Current Employer, as applicable, terminates because of an Employer Change, Retirement, death or physical disability and a Change in Control subsequently occurs before the end of the Award Period, the number of Performance Shares determined under Section 3.3 shall be paid to Recipient as soon as practicable (and in all events no later than 30 days) after such termination. If a Change in Control occurs and Recipient's employment by the Employer subsequently terminates before the end of the Award Period because of an Employer Change, Retirement, death or physical disability, the number of Performance Shares determined under Section 3.3 shall be paid to Recipient as soon as practicable (and in all events no later than 30 days) after such termination.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.3<u>CIC Acceleration</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)If Recipient is a party to a Change in Control Severance Agreement with the Company or a parent or subsidiary of the Company, Recipient shall immediately be paid the Target Share Amount if Recipient becomes entitled to a Change in Control Severance Benefit (as defined below). A "Change in Control Severance Benefit" means the severance benefit provided for in Recipient's Change in Control Severance Agreement with the Company or a parent or subsidiary of the Company; provided, however, that such severance benefit is a "Change in Control Severance Benefit" for purposes of this Agreement only if, under the terms of Recipient's Change in Control Severance Agreement, Recipient becomes entitled to the severance benefit (i) after a change in control of the Company has occurred, (ii) because Recipient's employment with the Employer has been terminated by Recipient for good reason in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Change in Control Severance Agreement or by the Employer other than for cause, and (iii) because Recipient has satisfied any other conditions or requirements specified in the Change in Control Severance Agreement and necessary for Recipient to become entitled to receive the severance benefit. For purposes of this Section 3.3(a), the terms "change in control," "good reason" and "cause" shall have the meanings set forth in Recipient's Change in Control Severance Agreement.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)If Recipient is <u>not</u> a party to a Change in Control Severance Agreement with the Company or a parent or subsidiary of the Company, Recipient shall immediately be paid the Target Share Amount if a Change in Control (as defined in Section 3.7) occurs and at any time after the earlier of Shareholder Approval (as defined in Section 3.8), if any, or the Change in Control and on or before the second anniversary of the Change in Control, (i) Recipient's employment is terminated by the Employer (or its successor) without Cause (as defined in Section 3.6), or (b) Recipient's employment is terminated by Recipient for Good Reason (as defined in Section 3.9).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.4If Recipient's employment by the Employer is terminated at any time prior to the end of the Award Period and Section 3.2, 3.3 or 7.2 does not apply to such termination, Recipient shall not be entitled to receive any Performance Shares.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.5"Retirement" shall mean termination of employment (a) on or after the first anniversary of the date of this Agreement, and (b) after Recipient is age 55 with age plus years of service (including fractions) as an employee of the Company or a parent or subsidiary of the Company totaling at least 70.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.6"Cause" shall mean (a) the willful and continued failure by Recipient to perform substantially Recipient's assigned duties with the Employer (other than any such failure resulting from incapacity due to physical or mental illness) after a demand for substantial performance is delivered to Recipient by the Employer which specifically identifies the manner in which Recipient has not substantially performed such duties, (b) willful commission by Recipient of an act of fraud or dishonesty resulting in economic or financial injury to the Company or the Employer, (c) willful misconduct by Recipient that substantially impairs the business or reputation of the Company or the Employer, or (d) willful gross negligence by Recipient in the performance of his or her duties.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.7For purposes of this Agreement, a "Change in Control" shall mean the occurrence of any of the following events:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)The consummation of:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;any consolidation, merger or plan of share exchange involving the Company (a "Merger") as a result of which the holders of outstanding securities of

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the Company ordinarily having the right to vote for the election of directors ("Voting Securities") immediately prior to the Merger do not continue to hold at least 50% of the combined voting power of the outstanding Voting Securities of the surviving corporation or a parent corporation of the surviving corporation immediately after the Merger, disregarding any Voting Securities issued to or retained by such holders in respect of securities of any other party to the Merger; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;any consolidation, merger, plan of share exchange or other transaction involving Northwest Natural Gas Company ("NW Natural") as a result of which the Company does not continue to hold, directly or indirectly, at least 50% of the outstanding securities of NW Natural ordinarily having the right to vote for the election of directors; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;any sale, lease, exchange or other transfer (in one transaction or a series of related transactions) of all, or substantially all, the assets of the Company or NW Natural;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)At any time during a period of two consecutive years, individuals who at the beginning of such period constituted the Board ("Incumbent Directors") shall cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority thereof; provided, however, that the term "Incumbent Director" shall also include each new director elected during such two-year period whose nomination or election was approved by two-thirds of the Incumbent Directors then in office; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c)Any person (as such term is used in Section 14(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, other than the Company or any employee benefit plan sponsored by the Company or any of its subsidiaries) shall, as a result of a tender or exchange offer, open market purchases or privately negotiated purchases from anyone other than the Company, have become the beneficial owner (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934), directly or indirectly, of Voting Securities representing twenty percent (20%) or more of the combined voting power of the then outstanding Voting Securities, but disregarding any Voting Securities with respect to which that acquirer has filed SEC Schedule 13G indicating that the Voting Securities were not acquired and are not held for the purpose of or with the effect of changing or influencing, directly or indirectly, the Company's management or policies, unless and until that entity or person files SEC Schedule 13D, at which point this exception will not apply to such Voting Securities, including those previously subject to a SEC Schedule 13G filing.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.8For purposes of this Agreement, "Shareholder Approval" shall be deemed to have occurred if the shareholders of the Company approve an agreement entered into by the Company, the consummation of which would result in a Change in Control.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.9For purposes of this Agreement, "Good Reason" shall mean the occurrence after Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control, of any of the following circumstances, but only if (x) Recipient gives notice to the Employer of Recipient's intent to terminate employment for Good Reason within 30 days after Recipient first becomes aware (or should reasonably have become aware) of such circumstances and (y) such circumstances are not fully corrected by the Employer within 90 days after Recipient's notice:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)the assignment to Recipient of a different title, job or responsibilities that results in a decrease in the level of Recipient's responsibility; provided that Good Reason shall not exist if Recipient continues to have the same or a greater general level of responsibility for the former Employer operations after the Change in Control as Recipient had

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prior to the Change in Control even though such responsibilities have necessarily changed due to the former Employer operations becoming a subsidiary or division of the surviving company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)a reduction by the Employer in Recipient's base salary as in effect immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c)the failure by the Employer to continue in effect any employee benefit or incentive plan in which Recipient is participating immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control (or plans providing Recipient with at least substantially similar benefits) other than as a result of the normal expiration of any such plan in accordance with its terms as in effect immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control, or the taking of any action, or the failure to act, by the Employer which would adversely affect Recipient's continued participation in any of such plans on at least as favorable a basis to Recipient as is the case immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control or which would materially reduce Recipient's benefits in the future under any of such plans or deprive Recipient of any material benefit enjoyed by Recipient immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d)the failure by the Employer to provide and credit Recipient with the number of paid vacation days to which Recipient is then entitled in accordance with the Employer's normal vacation policy as in effect immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e)the Employer's requiring Recipient to be based more than 25 miles from where Recipient's office is located immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control except for required travel on the Employer's business to an extent substantially consistent with the business travel obligations which Recipient undertook on behalf of the Employer prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.<u>Dividend Equivalent Cash Award</u>. The amount of the Dividend Equivalent Cash Award shall be determined by multiplying the number of Performance Shares deliverable to Recipient as determined under Sections 2 and 3 by the total amount of dividends paid per share of the Company's Common Stock for which the dividend record date occurred after the beginning of the Award Period and before the date of delivery of the Performance Shares.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.<u>Certification and Payment</u>. At the regularly scheduled meeting of the Committee held in February of the year immediately following the final year of the Award Period (the "Certification Meeting"), the Committee shall review the Company's results for the Award Period. Prior to the Certification Meeting, the Company shall calculate the number of Performance Shares deliverable and the amount of the Dividend Equivalent Cash Award payable to Recipient, and shall submit these calculations to the Committee. At or prior to the Certification Meeting, the Committee shall certify in writing (which may consist of approved minutes of the Certification Meeting) the number of Performance Shares deliverable to Recipient and the amount of the Dividend Equivalent Cash Award payable to Recipient. Subject to applicable tax withholding, the amounts so certified shall be delivered or paid (as applicable) on a date (the "Payment Date") that is on or as soon as practicable (and in all events within 30 days) following the Certification Meeting, and no amounts shall be delivered or paid prior to certification. No fractional shares shall be delivered and the number of Performance Shares deliverable shall be rounded to the nearest whole share. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if Recipient shall have made a valid election to defer receipt of Performance Shares or the Dividend Equivalent Cash Award pursuant to the terms of Northwest Natural's Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors and Executives, Recipient shall receive the Performance Shares

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and the Dividend Equivalent Cash Award on the date(s) determined in accordance with that election.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6.<u>Tax Withholding</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6.1Recipient acknowledges that, on the Payment Date when the Performance Shares are issued or otherwise delivered to Recipient, the Value (as defined below) on that date of the Performance Shares (as well as the amount of the Dividend Equivalent Cash Award) will be treated as ordinary compensation income for federal and state income and FICA tax purposes, and that the Employer will be required to withhold taxes on these income amounts. To satisfy the required withholding amount, the Employer shall first withhold all or part of the Dividend Equivalent Cash Award, and if that is insufficient, the Employer shall withhold the number of Performance Shares having a Value equal to the remaining withholding amount. For purposes of this Section 6, the "Value" of a Performance Share shall be equal to the closing market price for Common Stock on the last trading day preceding the date on which the Performance Share is treated for federal income tax purposes as transferred to Recipient.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6.2If the Employer is required to withhold FICA taxes with respect to the Performance Shares prior to the time the Performance Shares otherwise become payable, Recipient shall, immediately upon notification of the amount due, pay to the Company in cash or by check amounts necessary to satisfy applicable FICA withholding requirements. If Recipient fails to pay the amount demanded, the Company may withhold that amount from other amounts payable to Recipient, including salary, subject to applicable law. Alternatively, if Recipient is not subject to Section 16 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Employer may, in its sole discretion, choose to treat the FICA withholding as a loan to Recipient on terms determined by the Employer and communicated to Recipient.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6.3Notwithstanding Section 6.1, if Recipient is not subject to Section 16 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, Recipient may elect not to have Performance Shares withheld to cover taxes by giving notice to the Employer in writing prior to the Payment Date, in which case, the Performance Shares shall be issued or acquired in Recipient's name on the Payment Date thereby triggering the tax consequences and Recipient's obligation to pay to the Company in cash any required tax withholding not covered by withholding of the Dividend Equivalent Cash Award.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7.<u>Sale of the Company</u>. If there shall occur before the Payment Date a merger, consolidation or plan of exchange involving the Company pursuant to which the outstanding shares of Common Stock are converted into cash or other stock, securities or property, or a sale, lease, exchange or other transfer (in one transaction or a series of related transactions) of all, or substantially all, the assets of the Company (either, a "Company Sale"), then either:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7.1the unvested Performance Shares shall be converted into restricted stock units for stock of the surviving or acquiring corporation in the applicable transaction using the exchange rate, if any, used in determining shares of the surviving corporation to be held by the former holders of the Common Stock following the applicable transaction, or, if there was no exchange rate, taking into account the relative values of the companies involved in the applicable transaction, and disregarding fractional shares with the amount and type of shares subject thereto to be conclusively determined by the Committee; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7.2a pro rata number of Performance Shares and the related Dividend Equivalent Cash Award shall be delivered simultaneously with the closing of the applicable transaction such that Recipient will participate as a shareholder in receiving proceeds from such transaction with respect to those shares. The number of Performance Shares to be delivered as a pro-rated award under this Section 7.2 shall be determined by multiplying the Target Share Amount by a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of days of the Award Period elapsed

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prior to the closing of the transaction and the denominator of which is the number of days in the Award Period.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8.<u>Changes in Capital Structure</u>. If the outstanding Common Stock is hereafter increased or decreased or changed into or exchanged for a different number or kind of shares or other securities of the Company by reason of any stock split, combination of shares or dividend payable in shares, recapitalization or reclassification, appropriate adjustment shall be made by the Committee in the number and kind of shares subject to this Agreement so that Recipient's proportionate interest before and after the occurrence of the event is maintained. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee shall have no obligation to effect any adjustment that would or might result in the issuance of fractional shares, and any fractional shares resulting from any adjustment may be disregarded or provided for in any manner determined by the Committee. Any such adjustments made by the Committee shall be conclusive.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;9.<u>Recoupment</u>. This award shall be subject to recoupment as provided in the Company's Code of Conduct and the Company's Compensation Recovery Policy as in effect on the date hereof, as each may be amended, restated or modified from time to time.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10.<u>Approvals</u>. The obligations of the Company under this Agreement are subject to the approval of state and federal authorities or agencies with jurisdiction in the matter. The Company will use its best efforts to take steps required by state or federal law or applicable regulations, including rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and any stock exchange on which the Company's shares may then be listed, in connection with the award under this Agreement. The foregoing notwithstanding, the Company shall not be obligated to issue or deliver Common Stock under this Agreement if such issuance or delivery would violate applicable state or federal law.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;11.<u>No Right to Employment</u>. Nothing contained in this Agreement shall confer upon Recipient any right to be employed by the Employer or to continue to provide services to the Employer or to interfere in any way with the right of the Employer to terminate Recipient's services at any time for any reason, with or without cause.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;12.<u>Miscellaneous</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;12.1<u>Entire Agreement; Amendment</u>. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement of the parties with regard to the subjects hereof and may be amended only by written agreement between the Company and Recipient.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;12.2<u>Notices</u>. Any notice required or permitted under this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed sufficient when delivered personally to the party to whom it is addressed or when deposited into the United States Mail as registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid, addressed to the Company, Attention: Corporate Secretary, at 250 SW Taylor Street, Portland, Oregon 97204, or to the Employer, Attention: Corporate Secretary, at its principal executive offices, or to Recipient at the address of Recipient in the Company's records, or at such other address as such party may designate by ten (10) days' advance written notice to the other party.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;12.3<u>Assignment; Rights and Benefits</u>. Recipient shall not assign this Agreement or any rights hereunder to any other party or parties without the prior written consent of the Company. The rights and benefits of this Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by the Company's successors and assigns and, subject to the foregoing restriction on assignment, be binding upon Recipient's heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;9

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;12.4<u>Further Action</u>. The parties agree to execute such further instruments and to take such further action as may reasonably be necessary to carry out the intent of this Agreement.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;12.5<u>Applicable Law; Attorneys' Fees</u>. The terms and conditions of this Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Oregon. In the event either party institutes litigation hereunder, the prevailing party shall be entitled to reasonable attorneys' fees to be set by the trial court and, upon any appeal, the appellate court.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;12.6<u>Counterparts</u>. This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;13.<u>Section 409A</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;13.1The intent of the parties is that payments and benefits under this Agreement comply with Section 409A of the Code ("Section 409A"), to the extent subject thereto, or otherwise be exempt from Section 409A, and accordingly, to the maximum extent permitted, this Agreement shall be interpreted and administered to be exempt from or in compliance therewith. Each amount to be paid or benefit to be provided under this Agreement shall be construed as a separate and distinct payment for purposes of Section 409A. Without limiting the foregoing and notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, to the extent required to avoid accelerated taxation and/or tax penalties under Section 409A:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)Recipient shall not be considered to have terminated employment with the Company for purposes of any payments under this Agreement which are subject to Section 409A until Recipient would be considered to have incurred a "separation from service" from the Company within the meaning of Section 409A;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)Amounts that would otherwise be payable and benefits that would otherwise be provided pursuant to this Agreement or any other arrangement between Recipient and the Company during the six (6) month period immediately following Recipient's separation from service shall instead be paid on the first business day after the date that is six (6) months following Recipient's separation from service (or, if earlier, Recipient's date of death);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c)Any payment that will be in compliance with Section 409A only if payable under designations permitted by Treas. Reg. Section 1.409A-3(c), or only if payable upon termination of a deferred compensation plan pursuant to Treas. Reg. Section 1.409A-3(j)(iv), shall be made only in compliance with such regulations;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d)Any payment that will be in compliance with Section 409A only if payable upon a change in control event within the meaning Treas. Reg. Section 1.409A-3(i)(5) shall be made only in compliance with such regulation; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e)If any severance amount payable under any other agreement that Recipient may have a right or entitlement to as of the date of this Agreement constitutes deferred compensation under Section 409A, then the portion of the benefits payable hereunder equal to such other amount shall instead be provided in the form set forth in such other agreement.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;13.2The Company makes no representation that any or all of the payments described in this Agreement will be exempt from or comply with Section 409A and makes no undertaking to preclude Section 409A from applying to any such payment. Recipient understands and agrees that Recipient shall be solely responsible for the payment of any taxes, penalties, interest or other expenses incurred by Recipient on account of non-compliance with Section 409A.

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as of the day and year first above written.

NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY

By&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>/s/ Justin B. Palfreyman&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</u>

Title&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>Chief Executive Officer&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</u>

RECIPIENT

<u>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</u>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;11

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**EXHIBIT A**

**Peer Group Companies**

Atmos Energy Corporation

ONE Gas, Inc.

Spire Inc.

Southwest Gas Holdings, Inc.

NiSource Inc.

New Jersey Resources Corporation

Avista Corporation

Black Hills Corporation

MGE Energy, Inc.

NorthWestern Corporation

Unitil Corporation

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;12

## Ex-10.Hh

**EXHIBIT 10hh**

RESTRICTED STOCK UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT

This Agreement is entered into as of February __, 2026, between Northwest Natural Holding Company, an Oregon corporation (the "Company"), and ____________ ("Recipient").

On February 25, 2026, the Organization and Executive Compensation Committee (the "Committee") of the Company's Board of Directors (the "Board") awarded restricted stock units to Recipient pursuant to Section 6 of the Company's Long Term Incentive Plan (the "Plan"). Recipient desires to accept the award subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement. Capitalized terms used but not defined in this Agreement have the meanings assigned to them in the Plan.

NOW, THEREFORE, the parties agree as follows:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1.<u>Grant of Restricted Stock Units; Dividend Equivalents</u>. Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, the Company hereby grants to Recipient _________ restricted stock units (the "RSUs"). The grant of RSUs obligates the Company, upon vesting in accordance with this Agreement, to deliver to Recipient one share of Common Stock (a "Share") for each RSU. Upon vesting of each RSU, the Company also agrees to make a dividend equivalent cash payment with respect to each vested RSU in an amount equal to the total amount of dividends paid per share of Common Stock for which the dividend record dates occurred after the date of this Agreement and before the date of delivery of the underlying Shares. The RSUs are subject to forfeiture as set forth in Sections 2.1 and 2.10 below.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.<u>Vesting; Forfeiture Restriction</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.1<u>Vesting Schedule</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)All of the RSUs shall initially be unvested. Subject to Sections 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.10 and 5.2, the RSUs shall vest as follows:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)one-third of the RSUs shall vest on March 1, 2027 if the Performance Threshold (as defined in Section 2.2 below) is satisfied for 2026;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2)an additional one-third of the RSUs shall vest on March 1, 2028 if the Performance Threshold is satisfied for 2027; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3)the remaining one-third of the RSUs shall vest on March 1, 2029 if the Performance Threshold is satisfied for 2028.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)If the Performance Threshold is not satisfied for any year set forth in (1), (2) or (3) or above, the RSUs that would have vested if the Performance Threshold had been satisfied for that year (the "Performance Year") shall be forfeited to the Company effective as of the last day of the Performance Year. For example, if the Performance Threshold is not satisfied for 2026, all RSUs that were scheduled to vest on March 1, 2027 shall be forfeited effective as of December 31, 2026.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c)If a Change in Control (as defined in Section 2.6 below) occurs, the Performance Threshold shall be deemed to be satisfied for all Performance Years that were not completed prior to the Change in Control, with the effect that the RSUs outstanding at the time of the Change in Control shall vest upon completion of the applicable time periods in Section 2.1(a).

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.2<u>Performance Threshold</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)For purposes of this Agreement, the "Performance Threshold" for any year shall be satisfied if the ROE (as defined below) for that year is greater than the 5 Yr Avg Cost of LT Debt (as defined below) for that year.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)The "ROE" for any year shall be calculated by dividing the Company's Adjusted Net Income (as defined below) for the year by the Average Equity (as defined below) for the year. Subject to adjustment in accordance with Section 2.2(c) below, the Company's "Adjusted Net Income" for any year shall be equal to the Company's net income attributable to common shareholders for the year, as set forth in the audited consolidated statement of income of the Company and its subsidiaries for the year. Subject to adjustment in accordance with Section 2.2(c) below, "Average Equity" for any year shall mean the average of the Company's total common stock equity as of the last day of the year and the Company's total common stock equity as of the last day of the prior year, in each case as set forth on the audited consolidated balance sheet of the Company and its subsidiaries as of the applicable date.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c)The Committee may, at any time, approve adjustments to the calculation of ROE to take into account such unanticipated circumstances or significant, non-recurring or unplanned events as the Committee may determine in its sole discretion, and such adjustments may increase or decrease ROE. Possible circumstances that may be the basis for adjustments shall include, but not be limited to, any change in applicable accounting rules or principles; any gain or loss on the disposition of a business; impairment of assets; dilution caused by Board approved business acquisition; tax changes and tax impacts of other changes; changes in applicable laws and regulations; changes in rate case timing; changes in the Company's structure; and any other circumstances outside of management's control.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d)The "5 Yr Avg Cost of LT Debt" for any year shall mean the average of five numbers consisting of the Avg Cost of LT Debt (as defined below) for that year and for each of the four preceding years. The "Avg Cost of LT Debt" for any year shall be equal to the sum of the Weighted Costs (as defined below) calculated for each series or tranche of long-term debt of the Company outstanding on the last day of the year. The "Weighted Cost" for a series or tranche of long-term debt as of any date shall be calculated by multiplying the Effective Interest Rate (as defined below) on the debt as of that date by the outstanding principal balance of the debt on that date, and then dividing the resulting amount by the Company's total outstanding principal balance of long-term debt as of that date. The "Effective Interest Rate" for a series or tranche of long-term debt as of any date shall be the yield calculated based on the settlement date for the original issuance of the series or tranche, the maturity date of the series or tranche, the stated annual interest rate of the series or tranche in effect on that date, the number of interest payments per year under the terms of the series or tranche, the initial borrowing of an amount equal to the principal balance net of Debt Issuance Costs (as defined below) for the series or tranche, and the repayment of principal at maturity or otherwise according to the terms of the series or tranche. The "Debt Issuance Costs" for a series or tranche of long-term debt shall include the fees, commissions and expenses of issuance of such debt, any other purchase discount from the face amount of such debt, and any premiums, write-offs of unamortized debt issuance costs and other costs incurred in connection with retiring debt refinanced with the proceeds of such debt, all as reflected in the Company's accounting records. For purposes of this Section 2.2(d), the Company's long term debt and the interest rates and outstanding principal balances of the outstanding series or tranches of long-term debt as of any date shall be those amounts as set forth in the audited consolidated financial statements of the Company and its subsidiaries for the year ending on that date, and shall in all cases include the current portion of any long-term debt and exclude borrowings under a revolving credit facility. For the avoidance of doubt, the Effective Interest Rate for purposes of this Agreement of each series of fixed-rate long-term debt outstanding as of the date of this Agreement is set forth on Exhibit A hereto.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.3<u>Effect of Retirement, Death, or Disability</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)If Recipient's employment by the Company or any parent or subsidiary of the Company (the "Employer") terminates because of Retirement (as defined below), death or physical disability (within the meaning of Section 22(e)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the regulations and guidance promulgated thereunder (the "Code") and a Change in Control has not previously occurred, all outstanding RSUs shall remain outstanding and subject to potential future vesting upon satisfaction of the Performance Threshold for the applicable years.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)If Recipient's employment by the Employer terminates because of Retirement, death or physical disability and a Change in Control subsequently occurs, all outstanding RSUs shall immediately vest. If a Change in Control occurs and Recipient's employment by the Employer subsequently terminates because of Retirement, death or physical disability, all outstanding RSUs shall immediately vest.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c)The term "Retirement" means termination of employment (1) on or after the first anniversary of the date of this Agreement, and (2) after Recipient is (i) age 62 with at least five years of service as an employee of the Company or a parent or subsidiary of the Company, or (ii) age 55 with age plus years of service (including fractions) as an employee of the Company or a parent or subsidiary of the Company totaling at least 70; provided, however, that a termination of Recipient's employment by the Employer for Cause (as defined in Section 2.8 below) shall not constitute a Retirement.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.4<u>CIC Acceleration if Party to a Severance Agreement</u>. If Recipient is a party to a Change in Control Severance Agreement with the Company or a parent or subsidiary of the Company, all outstanding RSUs shall immediately vest if Recipient becomes entitled to a Change in Control Severance Benefit (as defined below). A "Change in Control Severance Benefit" means the severance benefit provided for in Recipient's Change in Control Severance Agreement with the Company or a parent or subsidiary of the Company; provided, however, that such severance benefit is a "Change in Control Severance Benefit" for purposes of this Agreement only if, under the terms of Recipient's Change in Control Severance Agreement, Recipient becomes entitled to the severance benefit (a) after a change in control of the Company has occurred, (b) because Recipient's employment with the Employer has been terminated by Recipient for good reason in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Change in Control Severance Agreement or by the Employer other than for cause, and (c) because Recipient has satisfied any other conditions or requirements specified in the Change in Control Severance Agreement and necessary for Recipient to become entitled to receive the severance benefit. For purposes of this Section 2.4, the terms "change in control," "good reason" and "cause" shall have the meanings set forth in Recipient's Change in Control Severance Agreement.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.5<u>CIC Acceleration if Not a Party to a Severance Agreement</u>. If Recipient is <u>not</u> a party to a Change in Control Severance Agreement with the Company or a parent or subsidiary of the Company, all outstanding RSUs shall immediately vest if a Change in Control (as defined in Section 2.6 below) occurs and at any time after the earlier of Shareholder Approval (as defined in Section 2.7 below), if any, or the Change in Control and on or before the second anniversary of the Change in Control, (a) Recipient's employment is terminated by the Employer (or its successor) without Cause (as defined in Section 2.8 below), or (b) Recipient's employment is terminated by Recipient for Good Reason (as defined in Section 2.9 below).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.6<u>Change in Control</u>. For purposes of this Agreement, a "Change in Control" of the Company shall mean the occurrence of any of the following events:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The consummation of:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;any consolidation, merger or plan of share exchange involving the Company (a "Merger") as a result of which the holders of outstanding securities of the Company ordinarily having the right to vote for the election of directors ("Voting Securities") immediately prior to the Merger do not continue to hold at least 50% of the combined voting power of the outstanding Voting Securities of the surviving corporation or a parent corporation of the surviving corporation immediately after the Merger, disregarding any Voting Securities issued to or retained by such holders in respect of securities of any other party to the Merger; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;if the Employer is a subsidiary of the Company ("Subsidiary Employer"), any consolidation, merger, plan of share exchange or other transaction involving Subsidiary Employer as a result of which the Company does not continue to hold, directly or indirectly, at least 50% of the outstanding securities of Subsidiary Employer ordinarily having the right to vote for the election of directors;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) if the Subsidiary Employer is a subsidiary of NW Natural Water Company, LLC ("NW Water"), NW Natural Renewables Holdings, LLC ("NW Renewables") or SiEnergy Operating, LLC "SiEnergy"), any consolidation, merger, plan of share exchange or other transaction involving such applicable parent entity, as a result of which the Company does not continue to hold, directly or indirectly, at least 50% of the outstanding securities of such applicable parent entity ordinarily having the right to vote for the election of directors; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;any sale, lease, exchange or other transfer (in one transaction or a series of related transactions) of all, or substantially all, the assets of the Company or Subsidiary Employer or, if Subsidiary Employer is a subsidiary of NW Water, NW Renewables or SiEnergy, such applicable parent entity;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At any time during a period of two consecutive years, individuals who at the beginning of such period constituted the Board ("Incumbent Directors") shall cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority thereof; provided, however, that the term "Incumbent Director" shall also include each new director elected during such two-year period whose nomination or election was approved by two-thirds of the Incumbent Directors then in office; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Any person (as such term is used in Section 14(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, other than the Company or any employee benefit plan sponsored by the Company or any of its subsidiaries) shall, as a result of a tender or exchange offer, open market purchases or privately negotiated purchases from anyone other than the Company, have become the beneficial owner (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934), directly or indirectly, of Voting Securities representing twenty percent (20%) or more of the combined voting power of the then outstanding Voting Securities, but disregarding any Voting Securities with respect to which that acquirer has filed SEC Schedule 13G indicating that the Voting Securities were not acquired and are not held for the purpose of or with the effect of

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4

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changing or influencing, directly or indirectly, the Company's management or policies, unless and until that entity or person files SEC Schedule 13D, at which point this exception will not apply to such Voting Securities, including those previously subject to a SEC Schedule 13G filing.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.7<u>Shareholder Approval</u>. For purposes of this Agreement, "Shareholder Approval" shall be deemed to have occurred if the shareholders of the Company approve an agreement entered into by the Company, the consummation of which would result in a Change in Control.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.8<u>Cause</u>. For purposes of this Agreement, "Cause" shall mean (a) the willful and continued failure by Recipient to perform substantially Recipient's assigned duties with the Employer (other than any such failure resulting from incapacity due to physical or mental illness) after a demand for substantial performance is delivered to Recipient by the Employer which specifically identifies the manner in which Recipient has not substantially performed such duties, (b) willful commission by Recipient of an act of fraud or dishonesty resulting in economic or financial injury to the Company or the Employer, (c) willful misconduct by Recipient that substantially impairs the business or reputation of the Company or the Employer, or (d) willful gross negligence by Recipient in the performance of his or her duties.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.9<u>Good Reason</u>. For purposes of this Agreement, "Good Reason" shall mean the occurrence after Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control, of any of the following circumstances, but only if (x) Recipient gives notice to the Employer of Recipient's intent to terminate employment for Good Reason within 30 days after Recipient first becomes aware (or should reasonably have become aware) of such circumstances and (y) such circumstances are not fully corrected by the Employer within 90 days after Recipient's notice:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)the assignment to Recipient of a different title, job or responsibilities that results in a decrease in the level of Recipient's responsibility; provided that Good Reason shall not exist if Recipient continues to have the same or a greater general level of responsibility for the former Employer operations after the Change in Control as Recipient had prior to the Change in Control even though such responsibilities have necessarily changed due to the former Employer operations becoming a subsidiary or division of the surviving company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)a reduction by the Employer in Recipient's base salary as in effect immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c)the failure by the Employer to continue in effect any employee benefit or incentive plan in which Recipient is participating immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control (or plans providing Recipient with at least substantially similar benefits) other than as a result of the normal expiration of any such plan in accordance with its terms as in effect immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control, or the taking of any action, or the failure to act, by the Employer which would adversely affect Recipient's continued participation in any of such plans on at least as favorable a basis to Recipient as is the case immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control or which would materially reduce Recipient's benefits in the future under any of such plans or deprive Recipient of any material benefit enjoyed by Recipient immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d)the failure by the Employer to provide and credit Recipient with the number of paid vacation days to which Recipient is then entitled in accordance with the

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5

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Employer's normal vacation policy as in effect immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e)the Employer's requiring Recipient to be based more than 25 miles from where Recipient's office is located immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control except for required travel on the Employer's business to an extent substantially consistent with the business travel obligations which Recipient undertook on behalf of the Employer prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.10<u>Forfeiture; Possible Post-Termination Vesting</u>. If Recipient ceases to be employed by the Employer for any reason or for no reason, with or without cause, other than because of Retirement, death or physical disability (within the meaning of Section 22(e)(3) of the Code), any RSUs that did not vest pursuant to this Section 2 or Section 5.3 at or prior to the time of such termination of employment shall be forfeited to the Company; provided, however, that if Recipient's employment is terminated by the Employer without Cause or by Recipient for Good Reason after Shareholder Approval but before a Change in Control, any RSUs that otherwise would be forfeited under this sentence shall remain outstanding and shall vest on a Change in Control that occurs on or prior to the two-year anniversary of such termination (and if a Change in Control does not occur on or prior to such two-year anniversary, such RSUs shall be forfeited on the day after such two-year anniversary).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.<u>Certification and Delivery</u>. As soon as practicable following the completion of each Performance Year, the Company shall calculate the ROE and the 5 Yr Avg Cost of LT Debt for that Performance Year, and shall submit those calculations to the Committee. At or prior to the regularly scheduled meeting of the Committee held in February of the year immediately following each Performance Year (each, a "Certification Meeting"), the Committee shall certify in writing (which may consist of approved minutes of the meeting) whether or not the Performance Threshold was satisfied for that Performance Year. Unless otherwise required under this Agreement as a result of a Change in Control, no amounts shall be delivered or paid unless the Committee certifies that the Performance Threshold has been satisfied for the applicable Performance Year. Subject to applicable tax withholding, on a date (a "Payment Date") that is on or as soon as practicable (and in all events within 30 days) after (x) the date any of the RSUs become vested or (y) if later, the Certification Meeting relating to those RSUs, the Company shall deliver to Recipient (a) the number of Shares underlying the RSUs that vested (rounded down to the nearest whole share), and (b) the dividend equivalent cash payment determined under Section 1 with respect to the number of Shares that are delivered. Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this Section 3, if Recipient shall have made a valid election to defer receipt of the Shares and dividend equivalent cash payment pursuant to the terms of Northwest Natural's Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors and Executives, Recipient shall receive the Shares and dividend equivalent cash payment on the date(s) determined in accordance with that election.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.<u>Tax Withholding</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.1Recipient acknowledges that, on any Payment Date when Shares are delivered to Recipient, the Value (as defined below) on that date of the Shares so delivered (as well as the amount of the related dividend equivalent cash payment) will be treated as ordinary compensation income for federal and state income and FICA tax purposes, and that the Employer will be required to withhold taxes on these income amounts. To satisfy the required withholding amount, the Employer shall first withhold all or part of the dividend equivalent cash payment, and if that is insufficient, the Employer shall withhold the number of Shares having a Value equal to the remaining withholding amount. For purposes of this Section 4, the "Value" of a Share shall be equal to the closing market price for Common Stock on the last trading day

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6

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preceding the date on which the Share is treated for federal income tax purposes as transferred to Recipient.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.2If the Employer is required to withhold FICA taxes with respect to the RSUs prior to the time the Shares underlying the RSUs otherwise become payable, Recipient shall, immediately upon notification of the amount due, pay to the Company in cash or by check amounts necessary to satisfy applicable FICA withholding requirements. If Recipient fails to pay the amount demanded, the Company may withhold that amount from other amounts payable to Recipient, including salary, subject to applicable law. Alternatively, if Recipient is not subject to Section 16 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Employer may, in its sole discretion, choose to treat the FICA withholding as a loan to Recipient on terms determined by the Employer and communicated to Recipient.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.3Notwithstanding Section 4.1, if Recipient is not subject to Section 16 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, Recipient may elect not to have Shares withheld to cover taxes by giving notice to the Employer in writing prior to the Payment Date, in which case the Shares shall be issued or acquired in Recipient's name on the Payment Date thereby triggering the tax consequences and the Recipient's obligation to pay to the Company in cash any required tax withholding not covered by withholding of the dividend equivalent cash payment.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.<u>Sale of the Company</u>. If there shall occur a merger, consolidation or plan of exchange involving the Company pursuant to which the outstanding shares of Common Stock of the Company are converted into cash or other stock, securities or property, or a sale, lease, exchange or other transfer (in one transaction or a series of related transactions) of all, or substantially all, the assets of the Company, then either:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.1the unvested RSUs shall be converted into restricted stock units for stock of the surviving or acquiring corporation in the applicable transaction, using the exchange rate, if any, used in determining shares of the surviving corporation to be held by the former holders of Common Stock following the applicable transaction, or, if there was no exchange rate, taking into account the relative values of the companies involved in the applicable transaction, and disregarding fractional shares with the amount and type of shares subject thereto to be conclusively determined by the Committee; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.2the unvested RSUs shall be converted into a cash payment obligation of the surviving or acquiring corporation in an amount equal to the proceeds a holder of the underlying Shares would have received in proceeds from such transaction with respect to those shares, plus the related dividend equivalent cash payment with respect to the underlying Shares; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.3all of the unvested RSUs shall immediately vest, and the underlying Shares and related dividend equivalent cash payment shall be delivered, immediately prior to the closing of the applicable transaction such that Recipient will participate as a shareholder in receiving proceeds from such transaction with respect to those Shares.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6.<u>Changes in Capital Structure</u>. If, prior to the full vesting of all of the RSUs granted under this Agreement, the outstanding Common Stock is increased or decreased or changed into or exchanged for a different number or kind of shares or other securities of the Company by reason of any stock split, combination of shares or dividend payable in shares, recapitalization or reclassification, appropriate adjustment shall be made by the Committee in the number and kind of shares subject to the unvested RSUs so that Recipient's proportionate interest before and after the occurrence of the event is maintained. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee shall have no obligation to effect any adjustment that would or might result in the issuance of fractional shares, and any fractional shares resulting from any adjustment

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7

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may be disregarded or provided for in any manner determined by the Committee. Any such adjustments made by the Committee shall be conclusive.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7.<u>Recoupment</u>. This award shall be subject to recoupment as provided in the Company's Code of Conduct and the Company's Compensation Recovery Policy as in effect on the date hereof, as each may be amended, restated or modified from time to time.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8.<u>Approvals</u>. The obligations of the Company under this Agreement are subject to the approval of state and federal authorities or agencies with jurisdiction in the matter. The Company will use its best efforts to take steps required by state or federal law or applicable regulations, including rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and any stock exchange on which the Company's shares may then be listed, in connection with the award under this Agreement. The foregoing notwithstanding, the Company shall not be obligated to issue or deliver Common Stock under this Agreement if such issuance or delivery would violate applicable state or federal law.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;9.<u>No Right to Employment</u>. Nothing contained in this Agreement shall confer upon Recipient any right to be employed by the Employer or to continue to provide services to the Employer or to interfere in any way with the right of the Employer to terminate Recipient's services at any time for any reason, with or without cause.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10.<u>Miscellaneous</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10.1<u>Entire Agreement; Amendment</u>. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement of the parties with regard to the subjects hereof and may be amended only by written agreement between the Company and Recipient.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10.2<u>Notices</u>. Any notice required or permitted under this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed sufficient when delivered personally to the party to whom it is addressed or when deposited into the United States Mail as registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid, addressed to the Company, Attention: Corporate Secretary, at 250 SW Taylor Street, Portland, Oregon 97204, or to the Employer, Attention: Corporate Secretary, at its principal executive offices, or to Recipient at the address of Recipient in the Company's records, or at such other address as such party may designate by ten (10) days' advance written notice to the other party.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10.3<u>Assignment; Rights and Benefits</u>. Recipient shall not assign this Agreement or any rights hereunder to any other party or parties without the prior written consent of the Company. The rights and benefits of this Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by the Company's successors and assigns and, subject to the foregoing restriction on assignment, be binding upon Recipient's heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10.4<u>Further Action</u>. The parties agree to execute such further instruments and to take such further action as may reasonably be necessary to carry out the intent of this Agreement.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10.5<u>Applicable Law; Attorneys' Fees</u>. The terms and conditions of this Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Oregon. In the event either party institutes litigation hereunder, the prevailing party shall be entitled to reasonable attorneys' fees to be set by the trial court and, upon any appeal, the appellate court.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10.6<u>Counterparts</u>. This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;11.<u>Section 409A</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;11.1The intent of the parties is that payments and benefits under this Agreement comply with Section 409A of the Code ("Section 409A"), to the extent subject thereto, or otherwise be exempt from Section 409A, and accordingly, to the maximum extent permitted, this Agreement shall be interpreted and administered to be exempt from or in compliance therewith. Each amount to be paid or benefit to be provided under this Agreement shall be construed as a separate and distinct payment for purposes of Section 409A. Without limiting the foregoing and notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, to the extent required to avoid accelerated taxation and/or tax penalties under Section 409A:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)Recipient shall not be considered to have terminated employment with the Company for purposes of any payments under this Agreement which are subject to Section 409A until Recipient would be considered to have incurred a "separation from service" from the Company within the meaning of Section 409A;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)Amounts that would otherwise be payable and benefits that would otherwise be provided pursuant to this Agreement or any other arrangement between Recipient and the Company during the six (6) month period immediately following Recipient's separation from service shall instead be paid on the first business day after the date that is six (6) months following Recipient's separation from service (or, if earlier, Recipient's date of death);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c)Any payment that will be in compliance with Section 409A only if payable under designations permitted by Treas. Reg. Section 1.409A-3(c), or only if payable upon termination of a deferred compensation plan pursuant to Treas. Reg. Section 1.409A-3(j)(iv), shall be made only in compliance with such regulations;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d)Any payment that will be in compliance with Section 409A only if payable upon a change in control event within the meaning Treas. Reg. Section 1.409A-3(i)(5) shall be made only in compliance with such regulation; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e)If any severance amount payable under any other agreement that Recipient may have a right or entitlement to as of the date of this Agreement constitutes deferred compensation under Section 409A, then the portion of the benefits payable hereunder equal to such other amount shall instead be provided in the form set forth in such other agreement.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;11.2The Company makes no representation that any or all of the payments described in this Agreement will be exempt from or comply with Section 409A and makes no undertaking to preclude Section 409A from applying to any such payment. Recipient understands and agrees that Recipient shall be solely responsible for the payment of any taxes, penalties, interest or other expenses incurred by Recipient on account of non-compliance with Section 409A.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;9

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as of the day and year first above written.

NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY

By&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</u>

Title&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</u>

RECIPIENT

<u>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</u>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10

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**EXHIBIT A**

EFFECTIVE INTEREST RATES OF OUTSTANDING LONG-TERM DEBT

The outstanding series or tranches of long-term debt of the Company outstanding as of the date of this Agreement and the Effective Interest Rate of each such series or tranche are as follows:

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **<u>Series</u>** | **<u>Effective</u> <u>Interest</u> <u>Rate</u>** |
| Corp 5000:<br>7.050 % Series due 2026 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br>7.121% |
| 3.211 % Series due 2026 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.383% |
| 7.000 % Series due 2027 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7.062% |
| 6.650 % Series due 2027 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6.714% |
| 2.822 % Series due 2027 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.966% |
| 6.650 % Series due 2028 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6.727% |
| 3.141 % Series due 2029 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.275% |
| 7.740 % Series due 2030 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8.433% |
| 7.850 % Series due 2030 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8.551% |
| 5.820 % Series due 2032 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.913% |
| 5.660 % Series due 2033 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.723% |
| 5.750 % Series due 2033 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.924% |
| 5.180 % Series due 2034 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.235% |
| 5.250 % Series due 2035 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.316% |
| 5.130 % Series due 2036 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.204% |
| 5.230 % Series due 2038 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.275% |
| 4.000 % Series due 2042 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.062% |
| 4.136 % Series due 2046 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.226% |
| 3.685 % Series due 2047 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.754% |
| 4.110 % Series due 2048 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.145% |
| 3.869 % Series due 2049 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.938% |
| 3.600 % Series due 2050 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.690% |
| 3.078 % Series due 2051 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.135% |
| 4.780 % Series due 2052 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.806% |
| 5.430 % Series due 2053 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.464% |
| 5.900 % Series due 2055 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.942% |
| Corp 3000:<br>4.860 % Series due 2030 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br>5.039% |
| 5.420 % Series due 2035 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.523% |
| 6.040 % Series due 2055 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6.097% |
| Corp 2000:<br>3.067 % weighted rate Notes | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br>3.067% |
| LIBOR Loan due 2026 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.743% |

---

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---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Corp 1000: |  |
| 5.780 % Series due 2028 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.932% |
| 5.840 % Series due 2029 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.965% |
| 5.520 % Series due 2029 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.636% |
| 5.860 % Series due 2034 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.929% |
| 7.000 % JSD Series due 2055 | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7.174% |

---

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;12

## Ex-10.Oo

**EXHIBIT 10oo**

SPECIAL RESTRICTED STOCK UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT

This Agreement is entered into as of March 1, 2025, between Northwest Natural Holding Company, an Oregon corporation (the "Company"), and __________ ("Recipient").

On February __, 2025, the Organization and Executive Compensation Committee (the "Committee") of the Company's Board of Directors (the "Board") awarded restricted stock units, effective March 1, 2025, to Recipient pursuant to Section 6 of the Company's Long Term Incentive Plan (the "Plan"). Recipient desires to accept the award subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

NOW, THEREFORE, the parties agree as follows:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1.<u>Grant of Restricted Stock Units; Dividend Equivalents</u>. Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, the Company hereby grants to the Recipient 6,297 restricted stock units (the "RSUs"). The grant of RSUs obligates the Company, upon vesting in accordance with this Agreement, to deliver to the Recipient one share of Common Stock of the Company (a "Share") for each RSU. Upon vesting of each RSU, the Company also agrees to make a dividend equivalent cash payment with respect to each vested RSU in an amount equal to the total amount of dividends paid per share of Company Common Stock for which the dividend record dates occurred after the date of this Agreement and before the date of delivery of the underlying Shares. The RSUs are subject to forfeiture as set forth in Section 2.8 below.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.<u>Vesting; Forfeiture Restriction</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.1<u>Vesting Schedule</u>. All of the RSUs shall initially be unvested. Subject to Sections 2.2, 2.3, 2.8 and 5.2, the RSUs shall vest as follows:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)one-third of the RSUs shall vest on March 1, 2026;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)an additional one-third of the RSUs shall vest on March 1, 2027;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c)the remaining one-third of the RSUs shall vest on March 1, 2028.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.2<u>Effect of Death or Disability</u>. If Recipient's employment by the Company or any parent or subsidiary of the Company (the "Employer") terminates because of death or physical disability (within the meaning of Section 22(e)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the regulations and guidance promulgated thereunder (the "Code")), all outstanding RSUs shall immediately vest. For avoidance of doubt, Recipient's employment with the Employer will not be deemed terminated for purposes of this Agreement if Recipient remains employed by the Company or a parent or subsidiary of the Company.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.1<u>CIC Acceleration</u>. <u>CIC Acceleration if Party to a Severance Agreement</u>. If Recipient is a party to a Change in Control Severance Agreement with the Company or a parent or subsidiary of the Company, all outstanding RSUs shall immediately vest if Recipient becomes entitled to a Change in Control Severance Benefit (as defined below). A "Change in Control Severance Benefit" means the severance benefit provided for in Recipient's Change in Control Severance Agreement with the Company or a parent or subsidiary of the Company; provided, however, that such severance benefit is a "Change in Control Severance Benefit" for purposes of this Agreement only if, under the terms of Recipient's Change in Control Severance Agreement, Recipient becomes entitled to the severance benefit (a) after a change in control of

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the Company has occurred, (b) because Recipient's employment with the Employer has been terminated by Recipient for good reason in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Change in Control Severance Agreement or by the Employer other than for cause, and (c) because Recipient has satisfied any other conditions or requirements specified in the Change in Control Severance Agreement and necessary for Recipient to become entitled to receive the severance benefit. For purposes of this Section 2.1, the terms "change in control," "good reason," "cause" and "disability" shall have the meanings set forth in Recipient's Change in Control Severance Agreement.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.2<u>CIC Acceleration if Not a Party to a Severance Agreement</u>. If Recipient is <u>not</u> a party to a Change in Control Severance Agreement with the Company or a parent or subsidiary of the Company, all outstanding RSUs shall immediately vest if a Change in Control (as defined in Section 2.3 below) occurs and at any time after the earlier of Shareholder Approval (as defined in Section 2.4 below), if any, or the Change in Control and on or before the second anniversary of the Change in Control, (a) Recipient's employment is terminated by the Employer (or its successor) without Cause (as defined in Section 2.5 below), or (b) Recipient's employment is terminated by Recipient for Good Reason (as defined in Section 2.6 below).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.3<u>Change in Control</u>. For purposes of this Agreement, a "Change in Control" of the Company shall mean the occurrence of any of the following events:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The consummation of:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;any consolidation, merger or plan of share exchange involving the Company (a "Merger") as a result of which the holders of outstanding securities of the Company ordinarily having the right to vote for the election of directors ("Voting Securities") immediately prior to the Merger do not continue to hold at least 50% of the combined voting power of the outstanding Voting Securities of the surviving corporation or a parent corporation of the surviving corporation immediately after the Merger, disregarding any Voting Securities issued to or retained by such holders in respect of securities of any other party to the Merger; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;any consolidation, merger, plan of share exchange or other transaction involving Northwest Natural Gas Company ("NW Natural") as a result of which the Company does not continue to hold, directly or indirectly, at least 50% of the outstanding securities of NW Natural ordinarily having the right to vote for the election of directors; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;any sale, lease, exchange or other transfer (in one transaction or a series of related transactions) of all, or substantially all, the assets of the Company or NW Natural; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At any time during a period of two consecutive years, individuals who at the beginning of such period constituted the Board ("Incumbent Directors") shall cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority thereof; provided, however, that the term "Incumbent Director" shall also include each new director elected during such two-year period whose nomination or election was approved by two-thirds of the Incumbent Directors then in office; or

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Any person (as such term is used in Section 14(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, other than the Company or any employee benefit plan sponsored by the Company or NW Natural) shall, as a result of a tender or exchange offer, open market purchases or privately negotiated purchases from anyone other than the Company, have become the beneficial owner (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934), directly or indirectly, of Voting Securities representing twenty percent (20%) or more of the combined voting power of the then outstanding Voting Securities, but disregarding any Voting Securities with respect to which that acquirer has filed SEC Schedule 13G indicating that the Voting Securities were not acquired and are not held for the purpose of or with the effect of changing or influencing, directly or indirectly, the Company's management or policies, unless and until that entity or person files SEC Schedule 13D, at which point this exception will not apply to such Voting Securities, including those previously subject to a SEC Schedule 13G filing.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.4<u>Shareholder Approval</u>. For purposes of this Agreement, "Shareholder Approval" shall be deemed to have occurred if the shareholders of the Company approve an agreement entered into by the Company, the consummation of which would result in the occurrence of a Change in Control.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.5<u>Cause</u>. For purposes of this Agreement, "Cause" shall mean (a) the willful and continued failure by Recipient to perform substantially Recipient's assigned duties with the Employer (other than any such failure resulting from incapacity due to physical or mental illness) after a demand for substantial performance is delivered to Recipient by the Employer which specifically identifies the manner in which Recipient has not substantially performed such duties, (b) willful commission by Recipient of an act of fraud or dishonesty resulting in economic or financial injury to the Company or the Employer, (c) willful misconduct by Recipient that substantially impairs the business or reputation of the Company or the Employer, or (d) willful gross negligence by Recipient in the performance of his or her duties.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.6<u>Good Reason</u>. For purposes of this Agreement, "Good Reason" shall mean the occurrence after Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control, of any of the following circumstances, but only if (x) Recipient gives notice to the Employer of Recipient's intent to terminate employment for Good Reason within 30 days after the later of (1) notice to Recipient of such circumstances, or (2) the Change in Control, and (y) such circumstances are not fully corrected by the Employer within 90 days after Recipient's notice:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)the assignment to Recipient of a different title, job or responsibilities that results in a decrease in the level of Recipient's responsibility; provided that Good Reason shall not exist if Recipient continues to have the same or a greater general level of responsibility for the former Employer operations after the Change in Control as Recipient had prior to the Change in Control even though such responsibilities have necessarily changed due to the former Employer operations becoming a subsidiary or division of the surviving company;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)a reduction by the Employer in Recipient's base salary as in effect immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c)the failure by the Employer to continue in effect any employee benefit or incentive plan in which Recipient is participating immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control (or plans providing

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3

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Recipient with at least substantially similar benefits) other than as a result of the normal expiration of any such plan in accordance with its terms as in effect immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control, or the taking of any action, or the failure to act, by the Employer which would adversely affect Recipient's continued participation in any of such plans on at least as favorable a basis to Recipient as is the case immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control or which would materially reduce Recipient's benefits in the future under any of such plans or deprive Recipient of any material benefit enjoyed by Recipient immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d)the failure by the Employer to provide and credit Recipient with the number of paid vacation days to which Recipient is then entitled in accordance with the Employer's normal vacation policy as in effect immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e)the Employer's requiring Recipient to be based more than 25 miles from where Recipient's office is located immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control except for required travel on the Employer's business to an extent substantially consistent with the business travel obligations which Recipient undertook on behalf of the Employer prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.7<u>Forfeiture; Possible Restoration</u>. If Recipient ceases to be employed by the Employer for any reason or for no reason, with or without cause, other than because of death or physical disability (within the meaning of Section 22(e)(3) of the Code), any RSUs that did not vest pursuant to this Section 2 or Section 5.2 at or prior to the time of such termination of employment shall be forfeited to the Company; provided, however, that if Recipient's employment is terminated by the Employer without Cause or by the Recipient for Good Reason after Shareholder Approval but before a Change in Control, any RSUs that are forfeited under this sentence shall be restored to the Recipient and vested if a Change in Control subsequently occurs within two years.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3.<u>Delivery</u>. Subject to applicable tax withholding, on a date (a "Payment Date") as soon as practicable after any of the RSUs become vested, the Company shall deliver to Recipient the number of Shares underlying the RSUs that vested (rounded down to the nearest whole share) and the dividend equivalent cash payment determined under Section 1 with respect to the number of Shares that are delivered.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.<u>Tax Withholding</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.1Recipient acknowledges that, on any Payment Date when Shares are delivered to Recipient, the Value (as defined below) on that date of the Shares so delivered (as well as the amount of the related dividend equivalent cash payment) will be treated as ordinary compensation income for federal and state income and FICA tax purposes, and that the Employer will be required to withhold taxes on these income amounts. To satisfy the required withholding amount, the Employer shall first withhold all or part of the dividend equivalent cash payment, and if that is insufficient, the Employer shall withhold the number of Shares having a Value equal to the remaining withholding amount. For purposes of this Section 4, the "Value" of a Share shall be equal to the closing market price for Company Common Stock on the last trading day preceding the date on which the Share is treated for federal income tax purposes as transferred to Recipient.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.2If the Employer is required to withhold FICA taxes with respect to the RSUs prior to the time the shares underlying the RSU otherwise become payable, Recipient shall, immediately upon notification of the amount due, pay to the Company in cash or by check amounts necessary to satisfy applicable FICA withholding requirements. If Recipient fails to pay the amount demanded, the Company may withhold that amount from other amounts payable to Recipient, including salary, subject to applicable law. Alternatively, the Employer may, in its sole discretion, choose to treat the FICA withholding as a loan to Recipient on terms determined by the Employer and communicated to Recipient.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4.3Notwithstanding Section 4.1, Recipient may elect not to have Shares withheld to cover taxes by giving notice to the Employer in writing prior to the Payment Date, in which case the Shares shall be issued or acquired in Recipient's name on the Payment Date thereby triggering the tax consequences, but the Company shall retain the certificate for the Shares as security until Recipient shall have paid to the Company in cash any required tax withholding not covered by withholding of the dividend equivalent cash payment.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.<u>Sale of the Company</u>. If there shall occur a merger, consolidation or plan of exchange involving the Company pursuant to which the outstanding shares of Common Stock of the Company are converted into cash or other stock, securities or property, or a sale, lease, exchange or other transfer (in one transaction or a series of related transactions) of all, or substantially all, the assets of the Company, then either:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.1the unvested RSUs shall be converted into restricted stock units for stock of the surviving or acquiring corporation in the applicable transaction, using the exchange rate, if any, used in determining shares of the surviving corporation to be held by the former holders of the Company's Common Stock following the applicable transaction, or, if there was no exchange rate, taking into account the relative values of the companies involved in the appliable transaction, and disregarding fractional shares with the amount and type of shares subject to thereto to be conclusively determined by the Committee; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.2the unvested RSUs shall be converted into a cash payment obligation of the surviving or acquiring corporation in an amount equal to the proceeds a holder of the underlying shares would have received in proceeds from such transaction with respect to those shares, plus the related dividend equivalent cash payment with respect to the underlying Shares; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5.3all of the unvested RSUs shall immediately vest and the underlying Shares and related dividend equivalent cash payment shall be delivered simultaneously with the closing of the applicable transaction such that Recipient will participate as a shareholder in receiving proceeds from such transaction with respect to those Shares.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6.<u>Changes in Capital Structure</u>. If, prior to the full vesting of all of the RSUs granted under this Agreement, the outstanding Common Stock of the Company is increased or decreased or changed into or exchanged for a different number or kind of shares or other securities of the Company by reason of any stock split, combination of shares or dividend payable in shares, recapitalization or reclassification, appropriate adjustment shall be made by the Committee in the number and kind of shares subject to the unvested RSUs so that Recipient's proportionate interest before and after the occurrence of the event is maintained. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee shall have no obligation to effect any adjustment that would or might result in the issuance of fractional shares, and any fractional shares resulting

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from any adjustment may be disregarded or provided for in any manner determined by the Committee. Any such adjustments made by the Committee shall be conclusive.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7.<u>Recoupment</u>. This award shall be subject to recoupment as provided in the Company's Code of Conduct and the Company's Compensation Recovery Policy as in effect on the date hereof, as each may be amended, restated, or modified from time to time.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8.<u>Approvals</u>. The obligations of the Company under this Agreement are subject to the approval of state and federal authorities or agencies with jurisdiction in the matter. The Company will use its best efforts to take steps required by state or federal law or applicable regulations, including rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and any stock exchange on which the Company's shares may then be listed, in connection with the award under this Agreement. The foregoing notwithstanding, the Company shall not be obligated to issue or deliver Common Stock under this Agreement if such issuance or delivery would violate applicable state or federal law.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;9.<u>No Right to Employment</u>. Nothing contained in this Agreement shall confer upon Recipient any right to be employed by the Employer or to continue to provide services to the Employer or to interfere in any way with the right of the Employer to terminate Recipient's services at any time for any reason, with or without cause.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10.<u>Miscellaneous</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10.1<u>Entire Agreement; Amendment</u>. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement of the parties with regard to the subjects hereof and may be amended only by written agreement between the Company and Recipient.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10.2<u>Notices</u>. Any notice required or permitted under this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed sufficient when delivered personally to the party to whom it is addressed or when deposited into the United States Mail as registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid, addressed to the Company, Attention: Corporate Secretary, at 250 SW Taylor Street, Portland, Oregon, 97204, or to the Employer, Attention: Corporate Secretary, at its principal executive offices, or to Recipient at the address of Recipient in the Company's records, or at such other address as such party may designate by ten (10) days' advance written notice to the other party.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10.3<u>Assignment; Rights and Benefits</u>. Recipient shall not assign this Agreement or any rights hereunder to any other party or parties without the prior written consent of the Company. The rights and benefits of this Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by the Company's successors and assigns and, subject to the foregoing restriction on assignment, be binding upon Recipient's heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10.4<u>Further Action</u>. The parties agree to execute such further instruments and to take such further action as may reasonably be necessary to carry out the intent of this Agreement.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10.5<u>Applicable Law; Attorneys' Fees</u>. The terms and conditions of this Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Oregon. In the event either party institutes litigation hereunder, the prevailing party shall be entitled to reasonable attorneys' fees to be set by the trial court and, upon any appeal, the appellate court.

Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;11.<u>Section 409A</u>.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;11.1The intent of the parties is that payments and benefits under this Agreement comply with Section 409A of the Code ("Section 409A"), to the extent subject thereto, or otherwise be exempt from Section 409A, and accordingly, to the maximum extent permitted, this Agreement shall be interpreted and administered to be exempt from or in compliance therewith. Each amount to be paid or benefit to be provided under this Agreement shall be construed as a separate and distinct payment for purposes of Section 409A. Without limiting the foregoing and notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, to the extent required to avoid accelerated taxation and/or tax penalties under Section 409A:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a)Recipient shall not be considered to have terminated employment with the Company for purposes of any payments under this Agreement which are subject to Section 409A until Recipient would be considered to have incurred a "separation from service" from the Company within the meaning of Section 409A;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b)Amounts that would otherwise be payable and benefits that would otherwise be provided pursuant to this Agreement or any other arrangement between Recipient and the Company during the six (6) month period immediately following Recipient's separation from service shall instead be paid on the first business day after the date that is six (6) months following Recipient's separation from service (or, if earlier, Recipient's date of death);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c)Any payment that will be in compliance with Section 409A only if payable under designations permitted by Treas. Reg. Section 1.409A-3(c), or only if payable upon termination of a deferred compensation plan pursuant to Treas. Reg. Section 1.409A-3(j)(iv), shall be made only in compliance with such regulations;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d)Any payment that will be in compliance with Section 409A only if payable upon a change in control event within the meaning Treas. Reg. Section 1.409A-3(i)(5) shall be made only in compliance with such regulation; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(e)If any severance amount payable under any other agreement that Recipient may have a right or entitlement to as of the date of this Agreement constitutes deferred compensation under Section 409A, then the portion of the benefits payable hereunder equal to such other amount shall instead be provided in the form set forth in such other agreement.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;11.2The Company makes no representation that any or all of the payments described in this Agreement will be exempt from or comply with Section 409A and makes no undertaking to preclude Section 409A from applying to any such payment. Recipient understands and agrees that Recipient shall be solely responsible for the payment of any taxes, penalties, interest or other expenses incurred by Recipient on account of non-compliance with Section 409A.

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as of the day and year first above written.

NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY

By&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</u>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Justin B. Palfreyman

Title&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;President

<br>RECIPIENT:

<u>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</u>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;8

## Ex-10.T

![](exhibit10t-executiveannu001.jpg)

As amended effective February 22, 2024 NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY EXECUTIVE ANNUAL INCENTIVE PLAN This amended Executive Annual Incentive Plan (the "Plan") is executed by Northwest Natural Gas Company, an Oregon corporation (the "Company"), effective February 22, 2024. Effective October 1, 2018, the Company became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Northwest Natural Holding Company ("Parent") and holders of Company common stock became holders of Parent common stock ("Parent Common Stock"). PURPOSE OF PLAN The success of the Company is dependent upon its ability to attract and retain the services of key executives of the highest competence and to provide incentives for superior performance. The purpose of the plan is to advance the interests of the Company and its stakeholders through an incentive compensation program that will attract and retain key executives and motivate them to achieve performance goals. PROGRAM TERM This Plan is an annual incentive plan and each new calendar year commences a new Program Term. Each Program Term will begin on January 1 and conclude on December 31. PARTICIPATION All executive officers of the company and any other highly compensated employees as designated by the Company's Organization and Executive Compensation Committee (the "Committee") are eligible to receive awards ("Awards") under the Executive Annual Incentive Plan. At the beginning of each Program Term, the Committee shall determine eligibility for Awards and establish for each participant, the target incentive level as a percentage of year-end annualized based salary ("Target Award"). This information will be set forth in Exhibit I of the Plan document for the Program Term. Each such participating employee shall be referred to as a "Participant." To be eligible for payout of an Award the Participant must have a minimum of three months of service during the Program Term. If the Participant is a new employee or is newly eligible to participate in the Plan, that Participant must be in an eligible position on or before September 30 of the Program Term and will receive a prorated Award. In addition, the Participant must be employed by the Company or Parent on December 31 of the Program Term to be eligible for EXHIBIT 10t

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payout of the Award for the Program Term unless the Participant is eligible for a prorated Award as provided in the next two sentences. Eligibility for a prorated Award occurs when a Participant has three or more months of participation in the Program Term but the Participant's employment is terminated prior to December 31 of the Program Term due to one of the following: Retirement (unless such Retirement results from a termination of the Participant's employment by the Company or Parent for Cause), disability, and death. In addition, the Committee, in its discretion, may prorate an Award for a Participant who moves employment from the Parent or any direct or indirect subsidiary of the Parent to the Parent or any direct or indirect subsidiary of Parent during the Program Term. Prorated Awards will be determined by prorating the Participant's final Award by multiplying the amount of the final Award by a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of days the Participant was employed by the Company during the Program Term and the denominator of which is 365. If a Participant is a party to a Change in Control Severance Agreement with the Company or a parent or subsidiary of the Company, and Participant becomes entitled to a Change in Control Severance Benefit (as defined below) before the end of the Program Term, then within ten days after the Participant's termination of employment such Participant will be paid a prorated Award equal to such person's Target Award multiplied by a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of days during the Program Term they were employed by the Employer (as defined below) and the denominator of which is 365. A "Change in Control Severance Benefit" means the severance benefit provided for in Participant's Change in Control Severance Agreement with the Company or a parent or subsidiary of the Company; provided, however, that such severance benefit is a "Change in Control Severance Benefit" for purposes of this Agreement only if, under the terms of Participant's Change in Control Severance Agreement, Participant becomes entitled to the severance benefit (a) after a change in control of the Company has occurred, (b) because Participant's employment with the Company or a parent or subsidiary of the Company ("Employer") has been terminated by Participant for good reason in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Change in Control Severance Agreement or by Employer other than for cause, and (c) because Participant has satisfied any other conditions or requirements specified in the Change in Control Severance Agreement and necessary for Participant to become entitled to receive the severance benefit. For purposes of this paragraph, the terms "change in control," "good reason," "cause" and "disability" shall have the meanings set forth in Participant's Change in Control Severance Agreement. For a Participant who is not a party to a Change in Control Severance Agreement with Employer, if a Change in Control occurs during the Program Term and (a) Participant's employment is terminated by Employer (or its successor) without Cause (as defined below) prior to the end of the Program Term, or (b) Participant's employment is terminated by Participant for Good Reason (as defined below) prior to the end of the Program Term, then within ten days after the Participant's termination of employment such Participant will be paid a prorated Award equal to such person's Target Award multiplied by a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of days during the Program Term they were employed by Employer and the denominator of which is 365. 2

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If a Change in Control occurs during the Program Term and a Participant remains employed by Employer through the end of the Program Term, such a Participant will receive a payout equal to their Target Award. "Change in Control" shall mean the occurrence of any of the following events: (a) The consummation of: (i) any consolidation, merger or plan of share exchange involving Parent (a "Merger") as a result of which the holders of outstanding securities of Parent ordinarily having the right to vote for the election of directors ("Voting Securities") immediately prior to the Merger do not continue to hold at least 50% of the combined voting power of the outstanding Voting Securities of the surviving corporation or a parent corporation of the surviving corporation immediately after the Merger, disregarding any Voting Securities issued to or retained by such holders in respect of securities of any other party to the Merger; (ii) any consolidation, merger, plan of share exchange or other transaction involving the Company as a result of which Parent does not continue to hold, directly or indirectly. at least 50% of the outstanding securities of the Company ordinarily having the right to vote for the election of directors; or (iii) any sale, lease, exchange or other transfer (in one transaction or a series of related transactions) of all, or substantially all, the assets of Parent or the Company; (b) At any time during a period of two consecutive years, individuals who at the beginning of such period constituted Parent's Board of Directors ("Incumbent Directors") shall cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority thereof; provided, however, that the term "Incumbent Director" shall also include each new director elected during such two-year period whose nomination or election was approved by two-thirds of the Incumbent Directors then in office; or (c) Any person (as such term is used in Section 14(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, other than Parent or any employee benefit plan sponsored by Parent) shall, as a result of a tender or exchange offer, open market purchases or privately negotiated purchases from anyone other than Parent, have become the beneficial owner (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934), directly or indirectly, of Voting Securities representing twenty percent (20%) or more of the combined voting power of the then outstanding Voting Securities, but disregarding any Voting Securities with respect to which that acquirer has filed SEC Schedule 13G indicating that the Voting Securities were not acquired and are not held for the purpose of or with the effect of changing or influencing, directly or indirectly, the Company's management or policies, unless and until that entity or person files SEC Schedule 13D, at which point this exception will not apply to such Voting Securities, including those previously subject to a SEC Schedule 13G filing. "Cause" shall mean (a) the willful and continued failure by a Participant to perform substantially the Participant's assigned duties with the Company or Parent (other than any such failure 3

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resulting from incapacity due to physical or mental illness) after a demand for substantial performance is delivered to the Participant by the Company or Parent which specifically identifies the manner in which the Participant has not substantially performed such duties, (b) willful commission by a Participant of an act of fraud or dishonesty resulting in economic or financial injury to the Company or Parent, (c) willful misconduct by a Participant that substantially impairs the Company's or Parent's business or reputation, or (d) willful gross negligence by a Participant in the performance of his or her duties. "Good Reason" shall mean the occurrence after Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control, of any of the following circumstances, but only if (x) Participant gives notice to Employer of Participant's intent to terminate employment for Good Reason within 30 days after the later of (1) notice to Participant of such circumstances, or (2) the Change in Control, and (y) such circumstances are not fully corrected by the Employer within 90 days after Participant's notice: (a) the assignment to Participant of a different title, job or responsibilities that results in a decrease in the level of Participant's responsibility; provided that Good Reason shall not exist if Participant continues to have the same or a greater general level of responsibility for the former Employer operations after the Change in Control as Participant had prior to the Change in Control even though such responsibilities have necessarily changed due to the former Employer operations becoming a subsidiary or division of the surviving company; (b) a reduction by the Employer in Participant's base salary as in effect immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control; (c) the failure by Employer to continue in effect any employee benefit or incentive plan in which Participant is participating immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control (or plans providing Participant with at least substantially similar benefits) other than as a result of the normal expiration of any such plan in accordance with its terms as in effect immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control, or the taking of any action, or the failure to act, by Employer which would adversely affect Participant's continued participation in any of such plans on at least as favorable a basis to Participant as is the case immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control or which would materially reduce Participant's benefits in the future under any of such plans or deprive Participant of any material benefit enjoyed by Participant immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control; (d) the failure by the Employer to provide and credit Participant with the number of paid vacation days to which Participant is then entitled in accordance with the Employer's normal vacation policy as in effect immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control; or (e) the Employer's requiring Participant to be based more than 25 miles from where Participant's office is located immediately prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control except for required travel on the Employer's 4

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business to an extent substantially consistent with the business travel obligations which Participant undertook on behalf of the Employer prior to the earlier of Shareholder Approval, if applicable, or the Change in Control. "Retirement" shall mean termination of employment after Participant is (a) age 62 with at least five years of service as an employee of the Company and Parent, or (b) age 55 with age plus years of service (including fractions) as an employee of the Company and Parent totaling at least 70. "Shareholder Approval" shall be deemed to have occurred if the shareholders of Parent approve an agreement entered into by Parent, the consummation of which would result in the occurrence of a Change in Control. In the event of a change in job position during the Program Term, the Committee may, in its discretion, increase or decrease the amount of a Participant's Award to reflect such change. INCENTIVE FORMULA The formula for calculating Awards for each Program Term is as follows: Target Award X Company Performance Factor (CPF) X CPF Factor Weight + Priority/Individual Performance Factor (IPF) X P/IPF Factor Weight = Participant Award COMPANY PERFORMANCE FACTOR The Company performance goals in the Plan are intended to align the interest of Participants with those of the shareholders. The goals and the formula for determining the Company Performance Factor will be established by the Committee at the start of each Program Term and set forth as Exhibit II. The Committee may, at any time, approve adjustments to the calculation of the results under any Company performance goal to take into account such unanticipated circumstances or significant, non-recurring or unplanned events as the Committee may determine in its sole discretion, and such adjustments may increase or decrease the results. Possible circumstances that may be the basis for adjustments shall include, but not be limited to, any change in applicable accounting rules or principles; any gain or loss on the disposition of a business; impairment of assets; dilution caused by acquiring a business; tax changes and tax impacts of other changes; changes in applicable laws and regulations; changes in rate case timing; changes in the Company's structure; and any other circumstances outside of management's control. 5

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PRIORITY/INDIVIDUAL PERFORMANCE FACTOR The P/IPF weight used in calculating the Priority/Individual Performance Factor will be established for each Participant by the Committee at the beginning of the Program Term and set forth as part of Exhibit I. Also included in Exhibit I will be the CPF Factor Weight for the Company Performance Factor. Priority/Individual goals for each Participant will be established at the beginning of each Program Term and performance against these goals will be assessed by the Participant's superior and approved by the C.E.O. at the end of the Program Term. This assessment will result in a rating on a scale of 0% to 175%. This rating is called the Priority/ Individual Performance Factor. The Participant will not receive a payout under the Priority/ Individual Performance component of an Award if the Priority/Individual Performance Factor is less than 50%. ADMINISTRATION Award payouts will be calculated and paid no later than the March 15 following the end of the Program Term. Award payouts are subject to tax withholding unless the Participant made a prior election to defer the Award payout under the terms of the Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors and Executives ("DCP"). All Award payouts shall be audited by the Internal Audit department and approved by the Committee prior to payment. The Plan shall be administered by the Committee. The Committee shall have the exclusive authority and responsibility for all matters in connection with the operation and administration of the Plan. Decisions by the Committee shall be final and binding upon all parties affected by the Plan, including the beneficiaries of Participants. The Committee may rely on information and recommendations provided by management. The Committee may delegate to management the responsibility for decisions that it may make or actions that it may take under the terms of the Plan, subject to the Committee's reserved right to review such decisions or actions and modify them when necessary or appropriate under the circumstances. The Committee shall not allow any employee to obtain control over decisions or actions that affect that employee's Plan benefits. RECOUPMENT Awards made pursuant to this Plan shall be subject to recoupment pursuant to the Company's Code of Conduct and the Northwest Natural Holding Company Compensation Recovery Policy, as each may be amended, restated or modified from time to time. 6

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AMENDMENTS AND TERMINATION The Board has the power to terminate this Plan at any time or to amend this Plan at any time and in any manner that it may deem advisable. IN WITNESS WHEREOF this Plan was duly amended effective as of February 22, 2024. NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY By: /s/ David H. Anderson David H. Anderson Chief Executive Officer 7

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Exhibit I Effective January 1, 2026 Participants, Target Awards and Individual Performance Program Term: January 1, 2026 – December 31, 2026 8

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Exhibit II Company Performance Factor Program Term: January 1, 2026 – December 31, 2026 Company Performance Factor Formula: Net Income Component X 71.43% + Operations Component X 28.57% = Company Performance Factor Net Income Component: The Net Income (NI) Component will be determined using the formula in Note 1 below using Holding Company consolidated NI results. The table shows values rounded. 2026 NI Results NI Performance Component 0% 50% 100% 175% Notes on NI Component: 1) Values between those shown above will be interpolated using the formula shown below: Regression Interpolation Line for NI between $_________ and $_________ is y = _________x – _________ and line for NI between $_________ and $_________ is y = _________x – _________ where X is the NI results for the year. 2) Final NI Number will be rounded to two places to the right of the decimal. This will be the same number as reported to shareholders before any approved exceptions. 9

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![](exhibit10t-executiveannu010.jpg)

Operations Component: The Operations Component (which aligns with NBU incentive goals) for 2026 will be determined using the following formula and table: Sum of Goal Performance Rating X Goal Weight = Operations Component Factor 2026 Operational Goals Customer Satisfaction (Overall) Cust. Sat. Rating 0% 100% 200% 16.667% Customer Satisfaction (Staff Interaction) Cust. Sat. Rating 0% 100% 200% 16.667% Market Growth (Total New Meter Sets) Total New Rating Meter Sets 0% 100% 200% 16.667% Public Safety - Damages (% of calls w/response time less than 45 minutes) % Call Rsp. Rating 0% 100% 200% 16.667% Public Safety - Odor Response (% of calls w/response time less than 45 minutes) % Call Rsp. Rating 0% 100% 200% 16.667% Employee Safety Each factor weighted 50% DART Rate Days Away Restricted Time PMVC No. of Preventable Motor Vehicle Collison (There will be no payout under this metric in the event of an on-the-job employee fatality due to a preventable safety incident) DART Rate Rating 0% 100% 200% 16.667% PMVC Rating 0% 100% 200% TOTAL 100% Goals Goal Performance Rating Goal Weight 10

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Notes on Operations Goals: 1) Goal ratings will be interpolated between amounts shown. 2) The Goal Performance Rating for each goal is limited to 200%. 3) The Operations Component is limited to 200% and the aggregate performance from this component for use in the EAIP is limited to 175%. Final Notes on Company Performance Factor and General: 1) Final EAIP Participant Awards to participants will be rounded up to the nearest $1,000. 2) Final NI results for 2026 could be adjusted for the impact of certain events as determined by the OECC. 11

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## Ex-19

**EXHIBIT 19**

Northwest Natural Holding Company

Inside Information and Trading Policy

Index No. 74

Effective Date: February 27, 2023

Last Approved by Board: February 24, 2023

**Purpose** 

The purpose of the Inside Information and Trading Policy is to promote compliance with applicable securities laws by Northwest Natural Holding Company ("NW Holding" or the "Company") and its employees. **Inside Information and Trading Policy** 

**Application** 

*The Inside Information and Trading Policy is applicable to:*

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• *All directors, officers and employees of NW Holding,*

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• *All directors, officers and employees of all subsidiaries of NW Holding, including but not limited to Northwest Natural Gas Company (NW Natural), and* 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• *to agents, advisors, and independent contractors of NW Holding or any of its subsidiaries.* 

In addition, directors, executive officers, members of executive staff and certain others designated by the Corporate Secretary are subject to the pre-clearance trading procedures provided in the "Trading Procedures" policy.

**Policy** 

If a director, officer, any employee of NW Holding or its subsidiaries, or any agent or adviser of NW Holding or its subsidiaries, has material nonpublic information relating to the Company, it is the Company's policy that neither that person nor any related person may buy or sell securities of the Company or engage in any other action to take advantage of, or pass on to others, that information. For the most part, "securities" mean common stock of the Company or derivative securities that derive their value from the common stock of the Company. This policy also applies to material, nonpublic information relating to any other company with publicly traded securities, including the Company's customers or suppliers, obtained in the course of employment by or association with the Company.

***Who is an "Insider?"***

Any person who possesses material nonpublic information is considered an insider as to that information. Insiders include Company directors, officers, employees, independent contractors and those persons in a special relationship with the Company, e.g., its auditors, consultants or attorneys.

The definition of insider is transaction specific; that is, any person that is aware of any material nonpublic information is an insider with respect to that information.

***What is "Material Information?"***

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Material information is any information that a reasonable investor, given the total mix of information available, would consider important in a decision to buy, hold or sell stock—in short, any information that could reasonably affect the price of the stock.

Some examples of material information may include:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Unpublished financial results

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• News of a pending or proposed company transaction, including acquisitions, investments or divestitures

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• New equity or debt offerings

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Significant changes in expansion plans

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• News of a significant sale of assets

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Events that may result in the creation of a significant reserve or write-off or other significant adjustments to the financial statements

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• A change in auditors or notification that the auditor's report can no longer be relied upon

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Changes in dividend policies

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Changes in senior management or the Board of Directors

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Significant customer changes

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Financial liquidity problems

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Customer expansion plans

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Status of significant regulatory dockets or litigation

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Undisclosed major regulatory or legislative changes

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• A cybersecurity incident or risk, including vulnerabilities and breaches, that may adversely impact the Company's business, reputation or share value

The above list is only illustrative; many other types of information may be considered "material," depending on the circumstances. The materiality of particular information is subject to reassessment on a regular basis.

***What is "buying or selling" securities?***

Almost any *decision* with respect to ownership of securities can be considered "buying or selling" that security. This will include without limitation:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Open market or private purchases or sales,

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The exercise of stock options,

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Elections or modifications under the Company's Dividend Reinvestment and Direct Stock Purchase Plan (DRIP), but not the receipt of stock pursuant to prior elections under the DRIP,

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Elections or modifications with respect to the Company common stock held within the Retirement K Savings Plan, but not purchases of Company common stock under the Retirement K Savings Plan resulting from periodic contributions of money pursuant to a payroll deduction election

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Sales of stock purchased through the Company's Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP), but not the purchase of common stock pursuant to the ESPP

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Sales of stock received through the vesting of restricted stock units or performance shares, but not the receipt or vesting of the restricted stock units or performance shares or the forfeiture of any such securities as a result of tax withholding requirements

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Potentially some gift transactions

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Transactions in mutual funds that are invested in Company securities are not subject to this policy, and this Policy does not apply to purchases and sales pursuant to a pre-arranged trading plan that meets the requirements of Rule 10b5-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 including the requirement that it be entered into at a time when the person is not in possession of any material nonpublic information and has been approved by the Corporate Secretary. The Company has adopted a separate Rule 10b5-1 Trading Plan Policy that sets forth the requirements for putting in place a Rule 10b5-1 Plan with respect to Company securities.

***What is "Nonpublic Information?"***

Nonpublic information is any information that has not been disclosed generally to the public. Information that is received in circumstances which indicate it is not yet in general circulation, such as through a broadly disseminated press release or in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission, should be considered nonpublic. Inside information becomes public information only after it is released and there is adequate time for the news to be circulated and absorbed by the market and investors.

Information filed with an agency, such as the Environmental Protection Agency or the Public Utility Commission of Oregon is <u>not</u> considered public for purposes of this policy.

**Guidelines** 

Because the Company's shareholders and the investing public should be afforded a reasonable amount of time to receive the information and act upon it, as a general rule insiders should not engage in any transactions until one business day after the information has been publicly released.

The following guidelines should be followed in order to ensure compliance with this policy:

***Non-disclosure of Material Inside Information***

Material inside information must not be disclosed to anyone, except the persons within the Company whose positions require them to know it, until such information has been publicly released by the Company.

***Avoid Trading in Company Securities***

No employee should place a purchase or sell order or recommend that another person place a purchase or sell order in the Company's securities when he or she has knowledge of material information concerning the Company that has not been disclosed to the public.

***Avoid Speculation***

All employees should avoid speculating in Company stock. The Company's Stock Option and Employee Stock Purchase Programs give employees an opportunity to share in the future growth of the Company. By investing in the future, the Company does not mean engaging in short-range speculation based upon fluctuations in the market, and the Company highly discourages employees from frequent trading in Company stock.

Directors and executive officers are also subject to additional restrictions with respect to hedging and pledging securities of the Company, as set forth in the Company's separate Hedging and Pledging of Securities Policy.

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***Transactions by Family Members and Controlled Entities***

These trading restrictions apply to insiders' family members and others living in their households, as well as any family members who do not live in the insiders household but whose transactions in Company securities are directed by the insider or are subject to the insiders' influence or control, such as parents or children who consult with the insider before they trade in Company securities. Employees are expected to be responsible for the compliance of their immediate family and personal household and as described below should not "tip" information to family members. Similarly, this Policy applies to any entities that the insider influences or controls, including any corporations, limited liability companies or trusts, and transactions by these controlled entities should be treated for purposes of this Policy and applicable securities laws as if they were for the insiders' own account.

***Pension Plan Blackouts***

Any Director or executive officer of the Company or any of its subsidiaries is prohibited from directly or indirectly purchasing, selling or otherwise acquiring or transferring any securities of the Company if he or she has been notified of a pension or retirement plan trading blackout period, or of any plans to halt trading in Company stock in any retirement plan or other Company- sponsored plan.

***Twenty-Twenty Hindsight***

If securities transactions ever become the subject of scrutiny they are likely to be viewed after-the-fact with the benefit of hindsight. As a result, before engaging in any transaction, an insider should carefully consider how the transaction may be construed in the bright light of hindsight.

***"Tipping" Information to Others***

Because the Company is required by law to avoid the selective disclosure of material, nonpublic information, the Company has established procedures for the release of material information in a manner designed to achieve broad public dissemination in a relatively short time, for example, through press releases.

Thus, it is inappropriate for a person in possession of material nonpublic information to provide other people with such information, intentionally or inadvertently, or to recommend that they buy or sell the securities based upon that information. This is called "tipping," and both the tipper and tippee can be liable.

***Trading in Other Securities***

No employee should place purchase or sell orders or recommend that another person place a purchase or sell order in the securities of another corporation if the employee learns in the course of his/her employment confidential information about the other corporation that is likely to affect the value of that corporation's securities.

***Hedging and Pledging of Securities***

In addition, directors and executive officers are subject to additional restrictions provided in the "Policy on Hedging and Pledging of Securities."

***Questions***

Questions regarding this policy should be directed to the Corporate Secretary or the General Counsel.

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**Review of Policy** 

In order to ensure that this Policy continues to reflect current practices and applicable legal requirements, a regularly scheduled review will be conducted every three years unless changes in the law or business needs supersede this requirement.

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**<u>CORPORATE POLICY STATEMENT</u>**

**TRADING PROCEDURES**

(Pre-Clearance and Blackout Periods Applicable to Directors, Officers,

and Other Designated Employees)

**Purpose**

The Board of Directors of Northwest Natural Holding Company (the "Company") has adopted an "Inside Information and Trading Policy" both to satisfy the Company's obligation to prevent insider trading and to help Company personnel avoid the severe consequences associated with violations of insider trading laws. The Company is committed to preventing even the appearance of improper conduct on the part of any of its directors, executive officers and other key persons employed by or associated with the Company. The Company cannot afford to have its reputation damaged.

In addition, the Company is committed to establishing controls and procedures for the timely filing of reports of changes in ownership of the Company's securities as required by the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). In most cases, these reports must be filed by the close of business on the second business day following the transaction that triggers the reporting obligation.

**Scope**

This Policy applies to all directors, executive officers, members of executive staff and any other persons as may be designated by the Corporate Secretary as being subject to the Company's pre-clearance procedures, together with family and household members ("Insiders").

**<u>PROCEDURES</u>**

**Pre-Clearance**

To help prevent inadvertent violations of the federal securities laws, provide adequate time to comply with accelerated reporting requirements and avoid even the appearance of trading on inside information, Insiders may not engage in any transaction in the Company's securities (including, without limitation, open market or private purchases or sales, purchases or sales under the terms of the Company's employee benefit plans and the exercise of stock options) without first obtaining pre-clearance of the transaction from the Corporate Secretary. You need not pre-clear purchases under the Company's Employee Stock Purchase Plan ("ESPP"); however, you must pre-clear any sale of Company stock purchased under the ESPP.

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You need not pre-clear purchases or sales of Company stock under a trading plan that meets the requirements of Rule 10b5-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (a "10b5-1 Plan"). The 10b5-1 Plan itself, however, must be pre-cleared.

A request for pre-clearance should be submitted to the Corporate Secretary at least two days in advance of the proposed transaction. The Corporate Secretary is under no obligation to approve a transaction or plan submitted for pre-clearance, and may determine not to permit the transaction or plan.

**Blackout Periods**

<u>Quarterly Blackout Periods</u>. The Company's announcement of quarterly financial results may have the potential to have a material effect on the market for the Company's securities. Therefore, to avoid even the appearance of trading while aware of material nonpublic information, persons who are or may be expected to be aware of the Company's quarterly financial results generally will not be pre-cleared to trade in the Company's securities during the period beginning on the close of business on the last day of the Company's fiscal quarter and ending on the opening of the next business day following the Company's issuance of its quarterly earnings release and corresponding analyst conference call. *Persons subject to these quarterly blackout periods include all Insiders, all employees of the accounting, investor relations and budget departments, and all other persons who are informed by the Corporate Secretary that they are subject to the quarterly blackout period.*

<u>Interim Blackout Periods</u>. The Company may on occasion issue interim earnings guidance or other potentially material information by means of a press release, an SEC filing on Form 8-K or other means designed to achieve widespread dissemination of the information. Insiders should anticipate that requests to engage in transactions in Company securities are unlikely to be pre-cleared while the Company is in the process of assembling the information to be released and until the information has been released and fully absorbed by the market.

<u>Event-specific Blackout Periods</u>. From time to time, an event may occur that is material to the Company and is known by only a few directors and executives. So long as the event remains material and nonpublic, Insiders may not engage in transactions in the Company's securities. The existence of an event-specific blackout will not be announced, other than to those who are aware of the event giving rise to the blackout. If, however, an Insider requests permission to trade in the Company's securities during an event-specific blackout, the Corporate Secretary will inform the person making the request of the existence of a blackout period without disclosing the reason for the blackout. Any person made aware of the existence of an event-specific blackout should not disclose the existence of the blackout to any other person. Failure of the Corporate Secretary to designate a person as being subject to an event-specific blackout will not relieve that person of the obligation not to trade while aware of material nonpublic information.

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<u>Hardship Exceptions</u>. A person who is subject to a quarterly earnings blackout period and who has an unexpected and urgent need to sell Company securities in order to generate cash may, in appropriate circumstances, be permitted to sell Company securities even during the blackout periods. Hardship exceptions may be granted only by the Corporate Secretary and must be requested at least two days in advance of the proposed transaction. A hardship exception may be granted only if the Corporate Secretary concludes that the Company's earnings information for the applicable quarter does not constitute material nonpublic information. Under no circumstances will a hardship exception be granted during an event-specific blackout period.

<u>Trading Plans</u>. The blackout periods described above shall not apply to transactions in the Company's securities implemented in accordance with a 10b5-1 Plan pre-cleared by the Corporate Secretary.

**Post-Termination Transactions**

If a person subject to this Policy is aware of material nonpublic information upon termination of service as a director, officer or employee of the Company, such person may not trade in the Company's securities until that information has become public or is no longer material. In all other respects, the procedures set forth in this Policy will cease to apply to such person's transactions in Company securities upon the expiration of any "blackout period" that is applicable to such person's transactions at the time of his or her termination of service.

**Company Assistance**

Any person who has a question about this Policy or its application to any proposed transaction may obtain additional guidance from the Corporate Secretary.

**<u>CERTIFICATIONS</u>**

All directors, officers and other employees subject to the procedures set forth in this Policy must sign and return the attached certificate to certify their understanding of and intent to comply with the Company's "Inside Information and Trading Policy" and this Policy regarding Trading Procedures.

Adopted: February 27, 2003

Amended: December 14, 2006

Updated: October 1, 2018

------

**CERTIFICATION**

I certify that:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1.I have read and understand the Company's Corporate Policy Statement regarding Inside Information and Trading and the Corporate Policy Statement regarding Trading Procedures covering pre-clearance procedures and blackout periods (together, the "Insider Trading Policy"). I understand the Corporate Secretary is available to answer any questions I have regarding the Insider Trading Policy.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2.I will continue to comply with the Insider Trading Policy for as long as I am subject to the Policy.

Signature:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</u>

Print name:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</u>

Date:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<u>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</u>

------

**NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY** 

**Rule 10b5-1 Trading Plan Policy**

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

This Rule 10b5-1 Trading Plan Policy should be read in conjunction with the Insider Information and Trading Policy and the Trading Procedures (together, the "<u>Insider Trading Policy</u>") adopted by Northwest Natural Holding Company (the "<u>Company</u>"). Specifically, the section of the Insider Trading Policy addressing "What is "buying or selling" securities?" provides that transactions made pursuant to an approved Rule 10b5-1 Plan will not be subject to certain provisions of the Insider Trading Policy. Terms used in this Rule 10b5-1 Trading Plan Policy and not otherwise defined have the meanings set forth in the Insider Trading Policy.

Rule 10b5-1(c) under the Exchange Act provides an affirmative defense against allegations of insider trading. This affirmative defense is often referred to as a "safe harbor" from such allegations. The Rule 10b5-1(c) safe harbor is available to the Company's employees, officers, and directors who make trades pursuant to a trading "plan" that meets the requirements of the rule. A plan that meets the requirements of the Rule 10b5-1(c) safe harbor is referred to herein as a "Trading Plan." Trading Plans may be used for purchases, sales, gifts or other transfers of securities.

The Company permits Insiders to enter into Trading Plans, but only if those plans are pre-approved in writing by our Chief Compliance Officer and Corporate Secretary or their designee(s) (each, the "<u>Compliance Officer</u>"). The Compliance Officer is assigned the job of approving any Trading Plan as to its form. Most brokerage firms will provide a form Trading Plan that is used for all clients.

All Trading Plans (and any amendment to, modification of, or termination of a Trading Plan) must comply with Rule 10b5-1 and must meet the following minimum conditions:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1.**Trading Plan Requirements.** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;a.**Plan and Approval.** Each Trading Plan proposed to be entered into by an Insider must be approved in writing by the Compliance Officer prior to its effectiveness. The Trading Plan must be in writing and signed by the Insider. The Trading Plan must include a written representation by the Insider that they are not aware of any material nonpublic information concerning the Company and that they are adopting the Trading Plan in good faith and not as part of a plan or scheme to evade the prohibitions of Section 10(b) and Rule 10b-5 of the Exchange Act. We will keep a copy of each Trading Plan in our files.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;b.**Timing and Term of Plan.** Each Trading Plan used by an Insider must be adopted (a) when the trading window for the Insider is open under our Insider Trading Policy; and (b) when the Insider does not otherwise possess material nonpublic information about the Company. Except with the prior written approval of the Compliance Officer, each Trading Plan entered into by any Insider of the Company must be structured to remain in place for at least one year; provided however, a Trading Plan

ACTIVE/120722577.1 <br>

------

may be less than one year in duration if the plan solely covers either (a) stock options expiring within one year or (b) selling of a portion of the shares upon vesting of restricted stock units in order to primarily cover estimated applicable tax liability. Except with the prior written approval of the Compliance Officer, each Trading Plan entered into by any Insider must be structured to remain in place no longer than two years after the effective date of such plan.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;c.**Timing of Plan Amendment and Modification; Termination of Plans.** Except with the prior written approval of the Compliance Officer, Trading Plans may be amended or modified only (a) when the trading window for the Insider is open under our Insider Trading Policy; (b) when the Insider does not possess material nonpublic information about the Company; and (c) with the written approval of the Compliance Officer.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;d.**Delayed Effectiveness of Adoption or Amendment/Modification.** Each Trading Plan used by an Insider must include a "cooling off' period prior to the first trade.

For executive officers (those officers of the Company who are required by Section 16 of the Exchange Act to file reports on their transactions in the Company's securities) and members of the Company's board of directors, the Trading Plan must provide that the first transaction executed pursuant to the Trading Plan may not occur until after the period beginning on the date the Trading Plan is effective and ending on the later of (i) the 90th day after adoption or amendment of the plan and (ii) two business days following the disclosure of the Company's financial results in a Form 10-Q or Form 10-K for the fiscal quarter in which the plan was adopted, amended or modified. With respect to the period described in clause (ii), the required cooling off period need not exceed 120 days.

For Insiders who are not executive officers or directors, the Trading Plan must provide that the first transaction executed pursuant to the Trading Plan may not occur until thirty (30) days following the adoption, amendment or modification of the Trading Plan, as applicable.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;e.**Relationships with Plan Broker/Administrator; No Subsequent Influence.** Each Trading Plan used by an Insider must provide that the Insider may not communicate any material nonpublic information about the Company to the broker or other third party administering the plan, or attempt to influence how the broker or such party executes (or exercises its discretion in executing) orders or other transactions under the Trading Plan in any way.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;f.**Plan Specifications; Discretion Regarding Transactions Under the Plan.** The Trading Plan must authorize the broker or other third party administering the plan to effect the transactions called for by the plan without any control or influence by you. The Trading Plan must specify the material parameters for the transactions to be effected under the plan. For example, for a plan that will provide for the purchase or sale of stock, the plan must specify the amount of stock to be purchased or sold

------

during specified time periods and the price at which such stock is to be purchased or sold, or the plan may specify or set an objective formula (e.g., stock price thresholds) for determining the price and amount of stock to be purchased or sold during specified time periods. The Compliance Officer may require that the specified time periods contained in your Trading Plan during which sales could occur shall not coincide with the specified time periods in similar Trading Plans adopted by other insiders (e.g., to avoid a particular part of a quarter when earnings will be released), or make other arrangements (such as sale volume limitations) to avoid a large number of sales occurring simultaneously or to comply with any required company policy regarding stock ownership.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;g.**Only One Plan in Effect at Any Time.** Unless otherwise approved by the Compliance Officer in situations where having multiple plans in place at one time is permissible under the provisions of Rule 10b5-1, an Insider may have only one Trading Plan in effect at any time. However, an Insider may adopt a new Trading Plan to replace an existing Trading Plan before the scheduled termination date of such existing Trading Plan so long as the new Trading Plan does not become effective prior to the completion of expiration of transactions under the existing Trading Plan, in all cases consistent with Rule 10b5-1, and the new Trading Plan must comply with the cooling off period and other requirements of this Policy.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;h.**Limitations on Single Trade Plans.** During any 12-month period, an Insider may only enter into one Trading Plan that is designed to effect the purchase or sale or other transfer of the total amount of the Company's securities covered by the Trading Plan in a single transaction; provided, however, an Insider may have in place an additional non-concurrent single-trade Trading Plan during this same 12-month period in connection with sell-to-cover transactions as necessary to satisfy tax withholding obligations incident to the vesting of a compensatory award from the Company such as restricted stock, restricted stock units or stock appreciation rights and where the Insider does not control the timing of such sales.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;i.**Suspensions.** Each Trading Plan used by an Insider must provide for suspension of transactions under such plan if legal, regulatory or contractual restrictions are imposed on the Insider, or other events occur, that would prohibit transactions under such plan.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;j.**Compliance with Rule 144.** Each Trading Plan used by an Insider must provide for specific procedures to comply with Rule 144 under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, including the filing of Form 144.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;k.**Broker Obligation to Provide Notice of Trades.** For executive officers and members of the board of directors of the Company, each Trading Plan must provide that the broker will provide notice of any transactions under the Trading Plan to the Insider and the Company no later than the close of business on the day of the transaction.

------

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;l.**Insider Obligation to Make Exchange Act Filings.** Each Trading Plan must contain an explicit acknowledgement by such Insider that all filings required by the Exchange Act, as a result of or in connection with transactions under such plan, are the sole obligation of such Insider and not the Company.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;m.**Required Footnote Disclosure.** Insiders must footnote all trades disclosed on Form 144 and comply with any checkbox requirement on Form 4 to indicate that the trades were made pursuant to a Trading Plan.

Adopted on: February 23, 2023

## Ex-21

**EXHIBIT 21**

**SUBSIDIARIES OF NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY** 

an Oregon Corporation

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Name of Subsidiary** | **Jurisdiction Organized** |
| **Northwest Natural Gas Company (dba NW Natural)** | **Oregon** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Northwest Energy Corporation<sup>(1)</sup> | Oregon |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;NWN Gas Reserves LLC<sup>(1)</sup> | Oregon |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;NW Natural RNG Holding Company, LLC<sup>(1)</sup> | Oregon |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lexington Renewable Energy LLC<sup>(1)</sup> | Delaware |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dakota City Renewable Energy LLC<sup>(1)</sup> | Delaware |
| SiEnergy Operating, LLC | Delaware |
| SiEnergy Holding, LLC (fka Si Investment Co, LLC) | Delaware |
| SiEnergy Gas, LLC (fka SiEnergy, LP) | Texas |
| SiEnergy Power Solutions, LLC | Texas |
| Pines Holdings, Inc. (fka Hughes Gas Resources, Inc.) | Texas |
| Pines Gas, Inc. (fka EPCOR Gas Texas Inc.) | Texas |
| Pines Gas Development, Inc. (fka EPCOR Gas Texas Development and Services Inc.) | Texas |
| T2 Transmission, LLC | Texas |
| Terra Transmission, LLC | Texas |
| NW Natural Energy, LLC | Oregon |
| NW Natural Gas Storage, LLC | Oregon |
| NNG Financial Corporation | Oregon |
| KB Pipeline Company | Oregon |
| NW Natural Renewables Holdings, LLC | Oregon |
| NW Natural Ohio Renewable Energy, LLC | Oregon |

---

------

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Marquette Renewable Energy, LLC | Oregon |
| Toledo Renewable Energy, LLC | Oregon |
| NW Natural Water Company, LLC | Oregon |
| Salmon Valley Water Company | Oregon |
| NW Natural Water of Oregon, LLC | Oregon |
| Sunstone Water, LLC | Oregon |
| Sunstone Infrastructure, LLC | Oregon |
| Sunriver Water LLC (dba Sunriver Utilities Company) | Oregon |
| Sunriver Environmental LLC | Oregon |
| Bents Court Water Company, LLC | Oregon |
| Emerald Valley Wastewater Company, LLC | Oregon |
| Lakeshore Water Company, LLC | Oregon |
| OMSID Infrastructure Holdings Company, LLC | Oregon |
| Seavey Loop Water Company, LLC | Oregon |
| South Coast Water Company, LLC | Oregon |
| NW Natural Water of Washington, LLC | Washington |
| Cascadia Water, LLC | Washington |
| Cascadia Infrastructure, LLC | Washington |
| Suncadia Water Company, LLC | Washington |
| Suncadia Environmental Company, LLC | Washington |
| NW Natural Water of Idaho, LLC | Idaho |
| Avimor Water Reclamation Company, LLC | Idaho |
| Falls Water Co., Inc. | Idaho |
| Gem State Water Company, LLC | Idaho |
| Gem State Infrastructure, LLC | Idaho |
| Quigley Recycled Water Company, LLC | Idaho |

---

------

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| NW Natural Water of Texas, LLC | Texas |
| Blue Topaz Water, LLC | Texas |
| Blue Topaz Infrastructure, LLC | Texas |
| T & W Water Service Company (dba Blue Topaz Utilities) | Texas |
| NW Natural Water of Arizona, LLC | Oregon |
| Foothills Water & Sewer, LLC (dba Foothills Utilities) | Arizona |
| Rose Valley Water Company, Inc. | Arizona |
| Turquoise Infrastructure, LLC | Oregon |
| NW Natural Water of California, LLC | Oregon |
| Blue Diamond Infrastructure, LLC | Oregon |
| NW Natural Water Services, LLC (dba King Water Company (WA); dba Hiland Water (OR)) | Oregon |
| Puttman Infrastructure Services Company, LLC | Oregon |
| Mines Park Infrastructure Holdings Company, LLC | Colorado |

---

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1)Subsidiary of Northwest Natural Gas Company

## Ex-23.A

**EXHIBIT 23a**

***CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM***

We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements on Form S-3 (No. 333-281437) and Form S-8 (Nos. 333-187005-01, 333-180350-01, 333-134973-01, 333-139819-01, 333-221347-01, 333-227687, 333-234539, 333-266517,333-275341, and 333-275346) of Northwest Natural Holding Company of our report dated February 27, 2026 relating to the financial statements, financial statement schedules, and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, which appears in this Form 10-K.

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Portland, Oregon

February 27, 2026

## Ex-23.B

**EXHIBIT 23b**

***CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM***

We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement on Form S-3 (No. 333-281437-01) and Form S-8 (No. 333-275344 and No. 333-214425) of Northwest Natural Gas Company of our report dated February 27, 2026 relating to the financial statements and financial statement schedule, which appears in this Form 10-K.

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Portland, Oregon

February 27, 2026

## Exhibit 31.1

**EXHIBIT 31.1**

***CERTIFICATION***

I, Justin B. Palfreyman, certify that:

1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 of Northwest Natural Gas Company;

2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and

5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

Date:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;February 27, 2026

<u>/s/ Justin B. Palfreyman</u>

Justin B. Palfreyman

Chief Executive Officer

## Exhibit 31.2

**EXHIBIT 31.2**

***CERTIFICATION***

I, Raymond Kaszuba III, certify that:

1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 of Northwest Natural Gas Company;

2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and

5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

Date:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;February 27, 2026

<u>/s/ Raymond Kaszuba III</u>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Raymond Kaszuba III

Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

## Exhibit 31.3

**EXHIBIT 31.3**

***CERTIFICATION***

I, Justin B. Palfreyman, certify that:

1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 of Northwest Natural Holding Company;

2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and

5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

Date:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;February 27, 2026

<u>/s/ Justin B. Palfreyman</u>

Justin B. Palfreyman

Chief Executive Officer

## Exhibit 31.4

**EXHIBIT 31.4**

***CERTIFICATION***

I, Raymond Kaszuba III, certify that:

1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 of Northwest Natural Holding Company;

2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and

5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

Date:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;February 27, 2026

<u>/s/ Raymond Kaszuba III</u>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Raymond Kaszuba III

Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

## Exhibit 32.1

**EXHIBIT 32.1**

**NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY**

Certificate Pursuant to Section 906

<u>of Sarbanes – Oxley Act of 2002</u>

Each of the undersigned, JUSTIN B. PALFREYMAN, Chief Executive Officer, and RAYMOND KASZUBA III, the Chief Financial Officer, of NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY (the Company), DOES HEREBY CERTIFY that:

1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 (the Report) fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended; and

2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the undersigned has caused this instrument to be executed this twenty-seventh day of February 2026.

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| |
|:---|
| <u>/s/ Justin B. Palfreyman</u> |
| Justin B. Palfreyman |
| Chief Executive Officer |

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<u>/s/ Raymond Kaszuba III</u>

Raymond Kaszuba III <br> Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 has been provided to Northwest Natural Gas Company and will be retained by Northwest Natural Gas Company and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.

## Exhibit 32.2

**EXHIBIT 32.2**

**NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY**

Certificate Pursuant to Section 906

<u>of Sarbanes – Oxley Act of 2002</u>

Each of the undersigned, JUSTIN B. PALFREYMAN, Chief Executive Officer, and RAYMOND KASZUBA III, the Chief Financial Officer, of NORTHWEST NATURAL HOLDING COMPANY (the Company), DOES HEREBY CERTIFY that:

1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 (the Report) fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended; and

2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the undersigned has caused this instrument to be executed this twenty-seventh day of February 2026.

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| |
|:---|
| <u>/s/ Justin B. Palfreyman</u> |
| Justin B. Palfreyman |
| Chief Executive Officer |

---

---

| |
|:---|
| <u>/s/ Raymond Kaszuba III</u> |
| Raymond Kaszuba III |
| Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer |

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A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 has been provided to Northwest Natural Holding Company and will be retained by Northwest Natural Holding Company and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.

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