Consolidated Edison Inc Reports Robust Earnings Growth for 2023

In this article:
  • Net Income: Consolidated Edison Inc reported a significant increase to $2,519 million in 2023 from $1,660 million in 2022.

  • Earnings Per Share (EPS): EPS soared to $7.25 in 2023, up from $4.68 in the previous year.

  • Adjusted Earnings: On an adjusted basis, EPS increased to $5.07 in 2023 from $4.57 in 2022.

  • Capital Investments: Planned capital investments of $4,849 million in 2024 and $5,243 million in 2025, with a total of $17,960 million expected from 2026 to 2028.

  • Debt and Equity Issuance: Up to $3,250 million of long-term debt planned for issuance in 2024, with no common equity issuance expected in the same year.

  • Future Earnings Guidance: Adjusted EPS for 2024 is projected to be between $5.20 and $5.40, with a compounded annual growth rate of 5% to 7%.

On February 15, 2024, Consolidated Edison Inc (NYSE:ED) released its 8-K filing, announcing a substantial increase in net income for the fiscal year 2023. The utility giant, which serves as a holding company for Consolidated Edison of New York and Orange & Rockland, reported a net income for common stock of $2,519 million or $7.25 a share, a notable rise from $1,660 million or $4.68 a share in 2022. Adjusted earnings, which exclude certain non-recurring items, stood at $1,762 million or $5.07 a share, compared with $1,620 million or $4.57 a share in the previous year.

Consolidated Edison Inc's performance in 2023 reflects the company's strategic focus on transitioning to a low-carbon future and maintaining its reputation for reliability. The company's chairman and CEO, Tim Cawley, highlighted the completion of the Reliable Clean City transmission line in Queens and the commencement of the Brooklyn Clean Energy Hub construction as key milestones. These initiatives are part of the company's broader strategy to invest in infrastructure that supports clean energy and climate resilience.

Financial Highlights and Strategic Investments

Senior Vice President and CFO Robert Hoglund emphasized the company's strong financial position, with no long-term debt at the parent company level following the strategic sale of its Clean Energy Businesses. This has resulted in a simplified balance sheet and positions the company to continue delivering stable earnings and returns. Looking ahead, Consolidated Edison Inc plans significant infrastructure investments to support customer needs and address the challenges of electrification and climate change. The company's history of successfully managing large electric projects bolsters confidence in its ability to meet these challenges.

For the upcoming years, Consolidated Edison Inc has outlined an aggressive capital investment plan, with $4,849 million earmarked for 2024 and $5,243 million for 2025. Over the longer term, from 2026 to 2028, the company anticipates investing an aggregate of $17,960 million. These investments will be funded through internally-generated funds, long-term debt, and common equity issuance, with specific plans for debt issuance in 2024 and 2025 and common equity issuance in 2025 and beyond.

Looking Forward

Consolidated Edison Inc's forward-looking guidance for 2024 sets the adjusted EPS in the range of $5.20 to $5.40. The company also forecasts a compounded annual adjusted EPS growth rate of 5% to 7% based on the 2024 guidance. These projections are based on current information and assumptions and are subject to approval by the New York State Public Service Commission.

The company's financial strength is underpinned by its substantial annual revenues and assets, totaling approximately $15 billion and $66 billion, respectively. As one of the nation's largest investor-owned energy-delivery companies, Consolidated Edison Inc continues to provide a wide range of energy-related products and services through its subsidiaries, focusing on the delivery of clean, renewable electricity and the management of both electric and gas assets.

Consolidated Edison Inc's 2023 earnings report demonstrates the company's resilience and strategic foresight in a rapidly evolving energy landscape. With a clear focus on clean energy and infrastructure resilience, the company is well-positioned to continue its trajectory of growth and value creation for shareholders and customers alike.

Explore the complete 8-K earnings release (here) from Consolidated Edison Inc for further details.

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.

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