FE

- FirstEnergy is set to report third quarter 2026 results after the market close on 27 October, with performance shaped by data center and industrial power demand alongside rising operation, maintenance and storm restoration costs. - The earnings release will spotlight how effectively FirstEnergy's Energize365 grid modernization spending is translating into returns while offsetting a heavier cost base. - We will now look at how FirstEnergy's investment narrative could be influenced by rising data center demand ahead of earnings. Scan beyond FirstEnergy and see how other grid and power beneficiaries of data center demand are lining up in our hand picked 42 power grid technology and infrastructure stocks Owning FirstEnergy essentially means believing that regulated grid and transmission investment can be matched with rising electricity demand from data centers and industrial users. In the near term, the story hinges on Energize365 projects improving reliability and capacity while data center load ramps. The coming quarter helps show whether the utility is converting that capital plan into a steadier earnings base. The biggest short term catalyst is how clearly management ties data center demand and grid upgrades to recoverable rate base growth. The key risk is that higher operation, maintenance and storm restoration expenses, combined with heavy capital spending, pressure free cash flow and make it harder to keep customer bills affordable. The most relevant recent development is the reaffirmed capital plan around Energize365, with US$6b earmarked for 2026 and a broader US$36b program through 2030. For you as a shareholder, that frames FirstEnergy as a heavy spender on poles, wires and substations just as large power users start locking in long term load. That same announcement also underlines why execution quality matters. Large grid projects need supportive regulators for timely cost recovery, or earnings can lag spending. With interest costs, dividend coverage and free cash flow already under pressure, the pace at which those Energize365 investments move into rate base is central to both potential upside and balance sheet risk. Analysts sketch a version of FirstEnergy where grid spending and data center load eventually show up cleanly in the income statement, but only if the numbers line up. Their models build in 4.9% yearly revenue growth for the next three years and higher profitability as regulated projects come through. That combination tries to capture both more electrons flowing across the wires and better economics on each dollar of revenue. Earnings today sit at about US$1.1b, with consensus pointing to US$2.0b by 2029 and a more optimistic camp modeling as much as US$2.3b. Profit margins are assumed to shift from 6.9% to 11.3% over the same three year stretch, which is a big swing for a regulated utility that still has to keep bills acceptable for households and large users. Data center demand helps support that profit story, but it does not remove the need for tight control of operation and maintenance costs and careful timing of new projects. Those forecasts also sit next to the equity math that underpins many valuation screens. The group view implies FirstEnergy trading on a P/E of 18.0x in 2029 earnings terms, compared with 24.1x today and a current US electric utilities sector average around 20.4x. Put simply, the models ask you to assume higher earnings and wider margins paired with a lower earnings multiple, which makes the quality and durability of those future profits central to the thesis. The capital intensity baked into Energize365 and the broader US$36b program means funding remains part of the story. Analysts are building in only modest share count growth of around 0.17% a year over the next three years, which leans on FirstEnergy being able to use internal cash flow, debt and targeted equity rather than regular large equity raises. That gives investors a cleaner read on earnings per share if execution keeps tracking the plan. FirstEnergy's narrative projects US$18.0b revenue and US$2.0b earnings by 2029. This assumes 4.9% yearly revenue growth and about US$0.9b earnings increase from the current US$1.1b level. Uncover how FirstEnergy's fair value indicates an 11% potential upside to its current price that could narrow quickly as data center demand feeds into the story. Fair value views on FirstEnergy from just 2 members of the Simply Wall St Community already stretch from US$29.09 to US$51.42, which shows how far private investors can disagree before fresh news hits the tape. Earnings on 27 October, along with ongoing capital needs and regulatory scrutiny on customer bills, could sharply reshape how you weigh those competing narratives, so it is worth exploring several of these viewpoints rather than relying on a single story. Explore another FirstEnergy fair value estimate, including one that suggests up to 11% upside from the current price. Disagree with existing narratives? Extraordinary investment returns rarely come from following the herd, so consider trusting your own analysis. - A great starting point for your FirstEnergy research is our analysis highlighting 1 key reward and 2 important warning signs that could impact your investment decision. - See our latest analysis for FirstEnergy. The report includes a comprehensive fundamental analysis summarized in a single visual, the Snowflake, making it easy to evaluate FirstEnergy's overall financial health at a glance. If the FirstEnergy story has you thinking about how different businesses respond to the same data center and grid build out, it can help to broaden your watchlist using a structured screener rather than chasing headlines one at a time. - For investors who want potentially durable quality at a discount, start by reviewing companies in our 29 high quality undervalued stocks that pair stronger fundamentals with lower valuations. - If capital preservation and steadier risk profiles matter most to you right now, narrow your search to businesses inside the 30 resilient stocks with low risk scores that score well on resilience metrics. - Those hunting for overlooked opportunities with solid numbers can scan our 20 high quality undiscovered gems to spot lesser known stocks that still screen well on fundamentals. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Companies discussed in this article include FE. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email [email protected]

FirstEnergy Corporation FE is scheduled to release third-quarter 2026 results on Oct. 27, after market close. The company delivered a positive earnings surprise of 2.04% in the last reported quarter. Let's discuss the factors that are likely to be reflected in the upcoming quarterly results. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings is pegged at 91 cents per share, indicating a year-over-year increase of 9.64%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for revenues is pinned at $4.28 billion, implying a 3.29% improvement year over year. FirstEnergy's third-quarter earnings are expected to have benefited from rising electricity demand from data centers and industrial customers. The company's 4.3 gigawatts of contracted and pipeline data center demand in West Virginia as of July 2026 is expected to have provided opportunities to drive third-quarter revenue and earnings growth. The company continues to modernize its infrastructure, upgrade the grid and replace aging assets through its Energize365 program. These investments are expected to have supported grid reliability and the company's ability to meet rising electricity demand, contributing to third-quarter performance. Strong economic activity across FE's service areas is expected to have supported earnings in the to-be-reported quarter. The company's expanding customer base and increase in demand are likely to contribute to its third-quarter results. Higher operation and maintenance expenses, combined with storm restoration costs, are likely to have restrained the company's third-quarter earnings growth. Our proven model does not conclusively predict an earnings beat for FirstEnergy this time around. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the odds of an earnings beat, which is not the case here, as you will see below. Earnings ESP: The company's Earnings ESP is -0.73%. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they're reported with our Earnings ESP Filter. Zacks Rank: Currently, FirstEnergy carries a Zacks Rank #3. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank stocks here. FirstEnergy Corporation price-eps-surprise | FirstEnergy Corporation Quote Investors may consider the following players from the same industry, as these have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this reporting cycle. OGE Energy OGE is scheduled to report third-quarter results on Oct. 28, 2026 and is likely to have an earnings beat. It has an Earnings ESP of +0.79% and a Zacks Rank #2 at present. OGE's long-term (three-to-five-year) earnings growth rate is 6.28%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for third-quarter earnings per share (EPS) is pinned at $1.26, which implies a year-over-year increase of 10.53%. Alliant Energy LNT is set to report third-quarter results on Oct. 29, 2026 and is likely to have an earnings beat. It has an Earnings ESP of +3.79% and a Zacks Rank #3 at present. LNT's long-term earnings growth rate is 6.93%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for third-quarter EPS is pinned at $1.23, which implies a year-over-year increase of 9.82%. Evergy EVRG is scheduled to report third-quarter results on Nov. 5, 2026 and is likely to have an earnings beat. It has an Earnings ESP of +4.41% and a Zacks Rank #2 at present. EVRG's long-term earnings growth rate is 9.07%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for third-quarter EPS is pinned at $2.27, which implies a year-over-year increase of 11.82%. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report FirstEnergy Corporation (FE) : Free Stock Analysis Report OGE Energy Corporation (OGE) : Free Stock Analysis Report Alliant Energy Corporation (LNT) : Free Stock Analysis Report Evergy Inc. (EVRG) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com). Zacks Investment Research

The market expects NiSource (NI) to deliver a year-over-year increase in earnings on higher revenues when it reports results for the quarter ended September 2026. This widely-known consensus outlook is important in assessing the company's earnings picture, but a powerful factor that might influence its near-term stock price is how the actual results compare to these estimates. The stock might move higher if these key numbers top expectations in the upcoming earnings report, which is expected to be released on October 28. On the other hand, if they miss, the stock may move lower. While the sustainability of the immediate price change and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's discussion of business conditions on the earnings call, it's worth handicapping the probability of a positive EPS surprise. This energy holding company is expected to post quarterly earnings of $0.22 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of +15.8%. Revenues are expected to be $1.39 billion, up 9.5% from the year-ago quarter. The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 1.71% higher over the last 30 days to the current level. This is essentially a reflection of how the covering analysts have collectively reassessed their initial estimates over this period. Investors should keep in mind that the direction of estimate revisions by each of the covering analysts may not always get reflected in the aggregate change. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise Estimate revisions ahead of a company's earnings release offer clues to the business conditions for the period whose results are coming out. This insight is at the core of our proprietary surprise prediction model -- the Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction). The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a more recent version of the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier. Thus, a positive or negative Earnings ESP reading theoretically indicates the likely deviation of the actual earnings from the consensus estimate. However, the model's predictive power is significant for positive ESP readings only. A positive Earnings ESP is a strong predictor of an earnings beat, particularly when combined with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold). Our research shows that stocks with this combination produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time, and a solid Zacks Rank actually increases the predictive power of Earnings ESP. Please note that a negative Earnings ESP reading is not indicative of an earnings miss. Our research shows that it is difficult to predict an earnings beat with any degree of confidence for stocks with negative Earnings ESP readings and/or Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) or 5 (Strong Sell). For NiSource, the Most Accurate Estimate is higher than the Zacks Consensus Estimate, suggesting that analysts have recently become bullish on the company's earnings prospects. This has resulted in an Earnings ESP of +13.64%. On the other hand, the stock currently carries a Zacks Rank of #3. So, this combination indicates that NiSource will most likely beat the consensus EPS estimate. While calculating estimates for a company's future earnings, analysts often consider to what extent it has been able to match past consensus estimates. So, it's worth taking a look at the surprise history for gauging its influence on the upcoming number. For the last reported quarter, it was expected that NiSource would post earnings of $0.15 per share when it actually produced earnings of $0.16, delivering a surprise of +6.67%. Over the last four quarters, the company has beaten consensus EPS estimates two times. An earnings beat or miss may not be the sole basis for a stock moving higher or lower. Many stocks end up losing ground despite an earnings beat due to other factors that disappoint investors. Similarly, unforeseen catalysts help a number of stocks gain despite an earnings miss. That said, betting on stocks that are expected to beat earnings expectations does increase the odds of success. This is why it's worth checking a company's Earnings ESP and Zacks Rank ahead of its quarterly release. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported. NiSource appears a compelling earnings-beat candidate. However, investors should pay attention to other factors too for betting on this stock or staying away from it ahead of its earnings release. Another stock from the Zacks Utility - Electric Power industry, FirstEnergy (FE), is soon expected to post earnings of $0.91 per share for the quarter ended September 2026. This estimate indicates a year-over-year change of +9.6%. Revenues for the quarter are expected to be $4.3 billion, up 3.7% from the year-ago quarter. Over the last 30 days, the consensus EPS estimate for FirstEnergy has been revised 4.3% up to the current level. Nevertheless, the company now has an Earnings ESP of -0.73%, reflecting a lower Most Accurate Estimate. This Earnings ESP, combined with its Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), makes it difficult to conclusively predict that FirstEnergy will beat the consensus EPS estimate. Over the last four quarters, the company surpassed consensus EPS estimates three times. Stay on top of upcoming earnings announcements with the Zacks Earnings Calendar. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report NiSource, Inc (NI) : Free Stock Analysis Report FirstEnergy Corporation (FE) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com). Zacks Investment Research

FirstEnergy (FE) is expected to deliver a year-over-year increase in earnings on higher revenues when it reports results for the quarter ended September 2026. This widely-known consensus outlook gives a good sense of the company's earnings picture, but how the actual results compare to these estimates is a powerful factor that could impact its near-term stock price. The stock might move higher if these key numbers top expectations in the upcoming earnings report, which is expected to be released on October 27. On the other hand, if they miss, the stock may move lower. While management's discussion of business conditions on the earnings call will mostly determine the sustainability of the immediate price change and future earnings expectations, it's worth having a handicapping insight into the odds of a positive EPS surprise. This utility company is expected to post quarterly earnings of $0.92 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of +10.8%. Revenues are expected to be $4.3 billion, up 3.7% from the year-ago quarter. The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 2.14% higher over the last 30 days to the current level. This is essentially a reflection of how the covering analysts have collectively reassessed their initial estimates over this period. Investors should keep in mind that an aggregate change may not always reflect the direction of estimate revisions by each of the covering analysts. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise Estimate revisions ahead of a company's earnings release offer clues to the business conditions for the period whose results are coming out. Our proprietary surprise prediction model -- the Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction) -- has this insight at its core. The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a more recent version of the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier. Thus, a positive or negative Earnings ESP reading theoretically indicates the likely deviation of the actual earnings from the consensus estimate. However, the model's predictive power is significant for positive ESP readings only. A positive Earnings ESP is a strong predictor of an earnings beat, particularly when combined with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold). Our research shows that stocks with this combination produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time, and a solid Zacks Rank actually increases the predictive power of Earnings ESP. Please note that a negative Earnings ESP reading is not indicative of an earnings miss. Our research shows that it is difficult to predict an earnings beat with any degree of confidence for stocks with negative Earnings ESP readings and/or Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) or 5 (Strong Sell). For FirstEnergy, the Most Accurate Estimate is lower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate, suggesting that analysts have recently become bearish on the company's earnings prospects. This has resulted in an Earnings ESP of -1.42%. On the other hand, the stock currently carries a Zacks Rank of #3. So, this combination makes it difficult to conclusively predict that FirstEnergy will beat the consensus EPS estimate. While calculating estimates for a company's future earnings, analysts often consider to what extent it has been able to match past consensus estimates. So, it's worth taking a look at the surprise history for gauging its influence on the upcoming number. For the last reported quarter, it was expected that FirstEnergy would post earnings of $0.49 per share when it actually produced earnings of $0.50, delivering a surprise of +2.04%. Over the last four quarters, the company has beaten consensus EPS estimates three times. An earnings beat or miss may not be the sole basis for a stock moving higher or lower. Many stocks end up losing ground despite an earnings beat due to other factors that disappoint investors. Similarly, unforeseen catalysts help a number of stocks gain despite an earnings miss. That said, betting on stocks that are expected to beat earnings expectations does increase the odds of success. This is why it's worth checking a company's Earnings ESP and Zacks Rank ahead of its quarterly release. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported. FirstEnergy doesn't appear a compelling earnings-beat candidate. However, investors should pay attention to other factors too for betting on this stock or staying away from it ahead of its earnings release. Among the stocks in the Zacks Utility - Electric Power industry, PG&E (PCG), is soon expected to post earnings of $0.42 per share for the quarter ended September 2026. This estimate indicates a year-over-year change of -16%. This quarter's revenue is expected to be $6.59 billion, up 5.4% from the year-ago quarter. Over the last 30 days, the consensus EPS estimate for PG&E has remained unchanged. Nevertheless, the company now has an Earnings ESP of -1.21%, reflecting a lower Most Accurate Estimate. When combined with a Zacks Rank of #4 (Sell), this Earnings ESP makes it difficult to conclusively predict that PG&E will beat the consensus EPS estimate. Over the last four quarters, the company surpassed consensus EPS estimates three times. Stay on top of upcoming earnings announcements with the Zacks Earnings Calendar. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report FirstEnergy Corporation (FE) : Free Stock Analysis Report Pacific Gas & Electric Co. (PCG) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com). Zacks Investment Research

With a market cap of $26 billion, FirstEnergy Corp. (FE) is a diversified energy company that generates, transmits, and distributes electricity through its subsidiaries across the United States. Operating through its Distribution, Integrated, and Stand-Alone Transmission segments, the company serves customers in six states with a mix of coal, nuclear, hydroelectric, wind, and solar energy sources. The Akron, Ohio-based company is slated to announce its fiscal Q3 2026 results after the market closes on Tuesday, Oct. 27. Ahead of this event, analysts expect the company to report a profit of $0.94 per share, up 13.3% from $0.83 in the year‑ago quarter. It has exceeded or met Wall Street's earnings expectations in the past four quarters. - 'When You Say I Should Pay $100 Billion, Then I'm Starting To Do A Little Math': Bill Gates Said He'd Happily Pay 'Over $10 Billion In Taxes' But Some Are Asking Too Much - How to Play Rivian Stock as RIVN Keeps Falling Despite Record Deliveries - Dan Ives Calls SpaceX's $40B Nvidia Chip Debt Plan a 'Smart Move' - Tired of missing midday reversals? The FREE Barchart Brief newsletter keeps you in the know. Sign up now! For fiscal 2026, analysts project the utility company to post EPS of $2.74, a rise of 7.5% from $2.55 in fiscal 2025. Moreover, EPS is anticipated to grow 7.7% year-over-year to $2.95 in fiscal 2027. Shares of FirstEnergy have fallen 3.6% over the past 52 weeks, lagging behind the broader S&P 500 Index's ($SPX) nearly 16% return. However, the stock has shown a less pronounced decline than the State Street Utilities Select Sector SPDR ETF's (XLU) 8.6% drop over the same period. FirstEnergy reported higher Q2 2026 results on Jul. 28, with profit of $288 million, or $0.50 per share, compared with $268 million, or $0.46 per share, a year earlier, driven by rising data center demand and more efficient operations. Data center demand (contracted and pipeline) increased 30% quarter over quarter to 6.4 GW, while demand in West Virginia surged 137% to 4.3 GW, reflecting growing electricity requirements from data centers. The company reaffirmed its full-year core earnings guidance of $2.62 per share - $2.82 per share and its target of 6% - 8% compound annual growth from 2026 to 2030, although adjusted earnings of $0.50 per share fell slightly short of analysts' estimate. Analysts' consensus view on FE stock remains cautiously optimistic, with a "Moderate Buy" rating overall. Out of 16 analysts covering the stock, seven recommend a "Strong Buy," one "Moderate Buy," and eight "Holds." The average analyst price target is $52.62, indicating a potential upside of 16.9% from the current levels. On the date of publication, Sohini Mondal did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. This article was originally published on Barchart.com

FirstEnergy has given long term shareholders a solid ride over the past few years, which puts a spotlight on a simple question for anyone looking at the stock today: Is the current share price properly supported by the utility's earnings power? FirstEnergy has returned 50.6% over the past 5 years, which raises the stakes on whether the present valuation lines up with what its earnings can sustain. The business relies on relatively predictable regulated-utility earnings, so any shift in allowed returns, operating efficiency or capital spending plans can reshape what those profits are worth today. The analysts covering FirstEnergy have run their own numbers. See what analysts think FirstEnergy's shares could be worth. For investors, the debate is whether FirstEnergy's current market price still makes sense once you line it up against the earnings that support it. If you are weighing FirstEnergy against other income focused utilities, it can help to line it up beside 38 power grid technology and infrastructure stocks. The P/E ratio fits FirstEnergy quite well because earnings for a regulated utility are often the key anchor for what investors are willing to pay. On this measure, the stock trades at about 24.1x earnings. That sits above the Electric Utilities sector average of roughly 19.9x and also higher than the peer group, which clusters closer to 18.7x. The tailored fair multiple for FirstEnergy suggests a level not far from where the shares currently change hands, so the market price looks broadly in line with what this valuation framework implies. For you, the question is whether the reliability of regulated earnings and the current payout profile justify paying a P/E that is richer than many peers while still tracking close to this modelled fair value. Explore the numbers behind FirstEnergy's P/E valuation. Simply Wall St Narratives for FirstEnergy pick up where the P/E puzzle leaves off by laying out which paths for future growth, margins and earnings would need to play out for the stock to be worth significantly more or less than it is today on the market. Instead of a single output from a ratio or valuation model, these scenarios spell out the future that figure relies on so you can watch how real world results compare over time. Narratives sit on FirstEnergy's Community page, which keeps the focus on concrete assumptions rather than guesswork. One of the top community narratives on FirstEnergy: 15% undervalued Discover why this Narrative puts FirstEnergy at 15% undervalued. Numbers only tell part of the story, because the people setting priorities, approving projects and deciding how cash is shared with shareholders still shape what you actually own. See who runs FirstEnergy and how they are paid. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Companies discussed in this article include FE. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email [email protected]

Exelon EXC is benefiting from stronger revenues, which are helping offset higher operating expenses and support overall financial performance. Revenue growth, supported by rate recovery and utility operations, is strengthening Exelon’s operating results.In the second quarter of 2026, total operating revenues increased 10% year over year to $5.97 billion, supported by higher electric operating revenues of $5.71 billion, up from $5.37 billion a year ago. For the first six months, total operating revenues reached $13.21 billion, up 8.8% from $12.14 billion a year earlier.Higher revenues helped EXC expand profitability despite an increase in operating costs. The company’s second-quarter operating income reached $979 million, up 5.6%, while adjusted operating earnings increased 10.3% to 43 cents per share, reflecting improved utility rate-related earnings.Exelon is pursuing additional rate recovery through its regulated utilities. In July, EXC’s unit Baltimore Gas and Electric filed an electric distribution rate case with the Maryland Public Service Commission, seeking recovery of investments and operating costs needed to maintain a safe and reliable system.Exelon plans to invest nearly $41.7 billion through 2029, supporting 7.9% average annual rate-base growth and adjusted operating earnings growth near the upper end of its 5-7% target range. Thus, rising utility revenues, rate recovery and ongoing grid investments could provide a durable foundation for earnings growth. Growth in utility revenues can help manage rising operating, maintenance and financing expenses while supporting consistent earnings. Additional revenues can provide greater flexibility for investing in infrastructure modernization and other essential projects.FirstEnergy FE second-quarter 2026 revenues rose 8.8% to $3.68 billion from $3.38 billion, while operating income increased 4.8% to $677 million, supported by stronger revenue growth.NextEra Energy NEE second-quarter 2026 revenues increased 12.4% to $7.53 billion, while operating income grew 17.1%, reflecting stronger performance across its utility and energy businesses. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 and 2027 EPS indicates a year-over-year increase of 3.25% and 6.60%, respectively. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research Exelon currently offers a 3.84% dividend yield, exceeding the Electric Power industry's 3.06% average over the past year. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research In the past six months, the company’s shares have plunged 10.7% compared with the industry’s 8.2% decline. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research EXC currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Exelon Corporation (EXC) : Free Stock Analysis Report NextEra Energy, Inc. (NEE) : Free Stock Analysis Report FirstEnergy Corporation (FE) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com). Zacks Investment Research

PPL Corporation PPL benefits from improved operating income, which enhances profitability and strengthens its financial flexibility. This can help the company fund capital investments, meet debt obligations, sustain dividends and manage financing requirements more effectively.In the second quarter of 2026, operating income increased 17% year over year to $475 million from $406 million, supporting a 20% rise in earnings per share (EPS) and a 3.1% increase in ongoing earnings. The increase in operating income reflects improved profitability and coincided with growth in both reported and ongoing earnings. The company benefits from rising data-center demand and economic development, which support sustainable earnings growth. PPL’s Pennsylvania segment has 31.8 gigawatts (GW) of potential data-center demand, while Kentucky has 13.7 GW of potential load growth through 2032.PPL expects improved earnings growth from the Pennsylvania rate-case settlement, which took effect July 1 and provides an approved $275 million annual revenue increase, as well as from the Rhode Island rate case, with new rates expected to take effect soon. The company expects EPS to grow at an annual rate of 6-8% through 2029. The company is making significant infrastructure investments to improve service reliability and expand its rate base. It plans to invest about $5.1 billion in 2026, with $23 billion expected through 2029, supporting an average annual rate-base growth of 10.3%.Overall, PPL is well positioned for earnings growth, supported by data center demand, rate recovery and investment-driven revenue gains. Higher operating income can strengthen a utility’s financial capacity, providing greater flexibility to fund capital projects while supporting balance-sheet stability. Sustained earnings growth can help fund grid modernization, generation expansion and reliability upgrades to meet rising demand.FirstEnergy FE reported a 4.8% year-over-year increase in operating income in the second quarter of 2026, strengthening its financial capacity to execute the $36 billion Energize365 program and support long-term rate-base growth.Duke Energy DUK reported a 12% year-over-year increase in operating income in the second quarter of 2026, strengthening its ability to fund its $103 billion capital program and support grid modernization and generation expansion. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 and 2027 EPS indicates a year-over-year increase of 7.18% and 8.32%, respectively. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research PPL's debt-to-capital currently stands at 57.46%, lower than the electric power industry’s 61.32%. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research In the past month, the company’s shares have plunged 3.1% compared with the industry’s 4.6% decline. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research PPL currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report PPL Corporation (PPL) : Free Stock Analysis Report FirstEnergy Corporation (FE) : Free Stock Analysis Report Duke Energy Corporation (DUK) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com). Zacks Investment Research

A month has gone by since the last earnings report for FirstEnergy (FE). Shares have lost about 4.9% in that time frame, underperforming the S&P 500. Will the recent negative trend continue leading up to its next earnings release, or is FirstEnergy due for a breakout? Well, first let's take a quick look at its most recent earnings report in order to get a better handle on the recent catalysts for FirstEnergy Corporation before we dive into how investors and analysts have reacted as of late. FirstEnergy Q2 Earnings Beat Estimates on Strong Transmission GrowthFirstEnergy reported second-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings of 50 cents per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 49 cents by 2.04%. In the year-ago quarter, the company reported earnings of 52 cents per share. FE’s reported GAAP earnings of 50 cents per share in the second quarter of 2026 compared with 46 cents in the year-ago quarter. Core earnings in the Distribution segment declined 6 cents in the second quarter of 2026 due to higher maintenance expenses, while the Stand-Alone Transmission segment benefited from an 11% increase in transmission rate base, boosting earnings by 4 cents. Operating revenues of $3.68 billion beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.56 billion by 3.43%. The top line increased 8.82% from $3.38 billion recorded in the year-ago quarter. Distribution: Revenues from this segment totaled $1.71 billion, up 2.3% from the prior-year quarter’s level. Electric revenues increased $44 million, while other revenues declined $5 million.Integrated: Revenues from this segment amounted to $1.43 billion, up 13.7% from the prior-year quarter. The increase was driven by a $130 million rise in revenues from contracts with customers and a $43 million increase in other revenues unrelated to contracts with customers.Stand-Alone Transmission: Revenues from this segment amounted to $544 million, up 19.30% from the prior-year quarter’s level, driven by rate base growth, the recovery of transmission operating costs and annual formula-rate true-ups. Total operating expenses were $3 billion, up 9.77% from the year-ago quarter's level of $2.73 billion. Purchased-power costs rose to $1.16 billion from $953 million, while other operating expenses increased to $1.17 billion from $995 million.Operating income nevertheless increased 4.8% to $677 million as revenue growth exceeded the rise in operating costs. Interest expense climbed to $337 million from $299 million due to new long-term debt and convertible note issuances, net of repayments. Total contracted and pipeline data center demand reached 24.8 gigawatts (GW), up about 30% from the first quarter. West Virginia demand increased 137% to 4.3 GW, supporting the company's evaluation of additional generation, transmission and distribution investments.FE expects another 1.5 GW of demand to be contracted shortly. Management is also advancing the proposed 1.2-GW Maidsville Energy Center and 70 megawatts of solar generation in West Virginia. FirstEnergy deployed $2.9 billion of capital through the first half of 2026, up 19% year over year. Total transmission rate base grew 14%, including increases of 22% in Integrated and 11% in Stand-Alone Transmission.As of June 30, 2026, cash and cash equivalents were $63 million compared with $57 million as of Dec. 31, 2025. As of June 30, 2026, long-term debt increased to $27.1 billion from $25.51 billion at year-end 2025. Short-term borrowings also climbed to $1.38 billion from $325 million.FE and its subsidiaries maintain investment-grade ratings across all three major credit rating agencies. FirstEnergy reaffirmed its 2026 core earnings guidance of $2.62 to $2.82 per share. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 is currently pegged at $2.73 per share.FirstEnergy remains on track to invest $6 billion in 2026 under its Energize365 program. The company also maintained its $36 billion capital plan for 2026-2030 and continues to expect core earnings growth near the top end of its 6-8% target range through 2030. In the past month, investors have witnessed a flat trend in estimates revision. At this time, FirstEnergy has a subpar Growth Score of D, however its Momentum Score is doing a bit better with a C. Charting a somewhat similar path, the stock has a grade of B on the value side, putting it in the second quintile for this investment strategy. Overall, the stock has an aggregate VGM Score of D. If you aren't focused on one strategy, this score is the one you should be interested in. FirstEnergy has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). We expect an in-line return from the stock in the next few months. FirstEnergy belongs to the Zacks Utility - Electric Power industry. Another stock from the same industry, PG&E (PCG), has gained 2.9% over the past month. More than a month has passed since the company reported results for the quarter ended June 2026. PG&E reported revenues of $5.9 billion in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +0.1%. EPS of $0.40 for the same period compares with $0.31 a year ago. For the current quarter, PG&E is expected to post earnings of $0.46 per share, indicating a change of -8% from the year-ago quarter. The Zacks Consensus Estimate remained unchanged over the last 30 days. The overall direction and magnitude of estimate revisions translate into a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell) for PG&E. Also, the stock has a VGM Score of B. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report FirstEnergy Corporation (FE) : Free Stock Analysis Report Pacific Gas & Electric Co. (PCG) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com). Zacks Investment Research

PPL Corporation’s PPL expanding revenues are helping the company offset higher costs and strengthen its operating performance. This revenue growth can help strengthen margins and support PPL’s overall financial performance.In the second quarter of 2026, PPL’s operating revenues increased 4.2% year over year to $2.11 billion from $2.03 billion. The improvement was supported by stronger rate recovery and transmission revenues. Rate recovery provided a 5-cent benefit, while transmission revenues added 1 cent, helping offset operating costs, depreciation and interest expenses. PPL’s operating income increased 17% year over year to $475 million in the second quarter, up from $406 million. This indicates that revenue growth translated into higher operating income despite increased depreciation and other expenses. Revenue growth is also important for PPL’s long-term prospects as the company invests heavily in its regulated operations. The company plans nearly $5.1 billion of capital investments in 2026 and $23 billion through 2029, supporting average annual rate-base growth of 10.3%. PPL expects improved rate recovery and capital-tracking mechanisms to support stronger earnings growth in the second half of 2026. The company also projects 2026 ongoing earnings per share (EPS) of $1.90-$1.98 and annual EPS growth of 6-8% through 2029.Overall, rising revenues, combined with regulatory recovery and capital investment, provide PPL with a supportive foundation for sustainable earnings growth. Rising utility revenues can help absorb higher operating, maintenance and financing costs, supporting earnings stability. Stronger revenues also preserve financial flexibility for infrastructure upgrades and other essential capital investments.FirstEnergy FE: Revenues increased 8.8% to $3.68 billion from $3.38 billion, outpacing growth in operating costs and lifting operating income about 4.8% to $677 million.Evergy EVRG: In the second quarter of 2026, revenues increased 4.4% to $1.50 billion, while operating income rose 10.7% to $380.6 million, helping absorb higher operations and maintenance and depreciation. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 and 2027 EPS indicates a year-over-year increase of 7.18% and 8.32%, respectively. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research PPL's debt-to-capital ratio currently stands at 57.46%, lower than the electric power industry’s 61.32%. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research In the past month, the company’s shares have plunged 3.9% compared with the industry’s 7.1% decline. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research PPL currently has a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report PPL Corporation (PPL) : Free Stock Analysis Report FirstEnergy Corporation (FE) : Free Stock Analysis Report Evergy Inc. (EVRG) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com). Zacks Investment Research

Dominion Energy, Inc. D reported second-quarter 2026 operating earnings of 79 cents per share, up 5.3% year over year. The figure surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 73 cents by 8.22%.GAAP earnings were 37 cents per share, down from 88 cents in the prior-year quarter. Net income attributable to Dominion Energy fell to $340 million from $760 million.The difference between GAAP and operating results reflected a 42-cent adjustment. Items included nuclear decommissioning trust gains, economic hedging impacts, regulated asset retirements, nonregulated asset impairments and merger-related costs. Operating revenues increased 17.6% to $4.48 billion and beat the consensus mark of $4.06 billion by 10.32%. Results benefited from stronger Dominion Energy Virginia earnings, supported by regulatory impacts, rider returns and customer usage. Weather-normal regulated electric sales rose 4.1% over the trailing 12 months. Dominion Energy Virginia contributed operating earnings of $670 million, up $121 million from the year-ago quarter. Its earnings contribution increased to 76 cents per share from 64 cents.The improvement included $105 million from the 2025 Biennial Review and $79 million from rider equity returns. Customer usage and other factors added $23 million. These gains were partly offset by higher electric capacity expense, storm restoration costs, planned outage costs and nuclear production tax credit impacts. Dominion Energy South Carolina generated operating earnings of $105 million, down $4 million year over year. Customer usage and rate-case impacts provided support, but depreciation, interest expense and other items weighed on the segment.Contracted Energy’s contribution declined $16 million to $31 million. A $28 million margin benefit and higher renewable energy tax credits were more than offset by increased depreciation, interest expense and other costs. Corporate and Other posted a $94 million loss, widening from $56 million, primarily due to higher net interest expense. Total operating expenses climbed to $4.15 billion from $2.71 billion. Electric fuel and other energy-related purchases rose to $1.32 billion, while other operations and maintenance expenses increased to $1.88 billion. Interest and related charges advanced to $555 million from $505 million. Data center contracted capacity in Virginia reached approximately 53.8 gigawatts(“GW”) in July 2026, up 5.3 GW, or 11%, from December 2025. The total included 12 GW under electric service agreements, 9.4 GW under construction authorizations and 32.4 GW in detailed engineering.Commercial demand remained the strongest sales category. Weather-normal commercial electric sales grew 8.5% over the trailing 12 months, contributing to the 4.1% increase across Dominion Energy Virginia and South Carolina.The regulated utilities served 4.1 million customers in the quarter. Virginia accounted for 2.8 million, while South Carolina served 1.3 million. Average customer growth was 0.9% in Virginia and 2% in South Carolina. The Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (CVOW) project was nearly 81% complete as of July 31. All 176 monopiles and transition pieces had been installed, while 31 wind turbines were complete and the 32nd was in progress.Dominion Energy now targets installation of the final turbine by year-end 2027. The revised schedule incorporates additional weather, vessel maintenance, loadout and jacking-operation contingencies.The project’s capital budget increased to $11.65 billion, including $123 million of unused contingency. Project-to-date investment was approximately $9.8 billion at June 30, leaving about $1.9 billion of remaining costs. Dominion Energy expects to fund roughly $1 billion of that amount after Stonepeak’s contribution. Cash and cash equivalents as of June 30, 2026, were $296 million compared with $250 million as of Dec. 31, 2025.Balance sheet metrics continue to reflect the capital intensity of the business. Total long-term debt stood at $46.72 billion at June 30, 2026, while total assets were $121.89 billion. On the cash flow statement, net cash provided by operating activities was $2.45 billion for the first half of 2026, compared with $2.42 billion in the first half of 2025. Management reaffirmed 2026 operating earnings guidance of $3.45-$3.69 per share, with a midpoint of $3.57. The outlook includes approximately 7 cents per share of renewable natural gas tax-credit income. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 earnings per share is currently pegged at $3.57 per share.The company also maintained its long-term operating earnings growth target of 5-7% through 2030, with growth expected to trend toward the upper half of that range from 2028 through 2030. Dominion Energy reiterated its planned 2026 dividend of $2.67 per share and its approximately $65 billion capital investment program for 2026-2030. Currently, Dominion Energy has a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. NextEra Energy NEE reported second-quarter 2026 results with adjusted earnings per share of $1.15, up 9.5% from $1.05 a year ago. The figure beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.09 by 5.5%.The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 and 2027 earnings per share indicates year-over-year growth of 8.36% and 8.73%, respectively.FirstEnergy FE reported second-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings of 50 cents per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 49 cents by 2.04%. In the year-ago quarter, the company reported earnings of 52 cents per share. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 and 2027 earnings per share implies year-over-year growth of 7.06% and 7.78%, respectively.Xcel Energy Inc. XEL reported second-quarter 2026 ongoing earnings of 93 cents per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 79 cents by 17.72%. Earnings increased 24% from 75 cents in the year-ago quarter, aided by greater recovery of electric infrastructure investments.The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 and 2027 earnings per share implies year-over-year growth of 8.16% and 9.52%, respectively. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Dominion Energy Inc. (D) : Free Stock Analysis Report Xcel Energy Inc. (XEL) : Free Stock Analysis Report NextEra Energy, Inc. (NEE) : Free Stock Analysis Report FirstEnergy Corporation (FE) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com). Zacks Investment Research