01—Abstract
Summary
Summary of the 10-K filed February 26, 2018. Cited figures are marked; the original filing is the authoritative source.
Eversource Energy (ES) reported strong financial results for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017.
The company experienced growth in earnings per share, driven by its electric transmission segment's increased rate base and favorable regulatory outcomes in its electric distribution segment, including rate increases approved for CL&P and NSTAR Electric. Significant strategic moves during the year included the acquisition of Aquarion Water Company, expanding Eversource's utility service offerings. The company also continued its focus on capital expenditures for transmission and distribution infrastructure modernization and expansion.
While facing challenges such as mild weather impacting sales volumes in the electric distribution segment, Eversource demonstrated resilience through its decoupled revenue mechanisms and prudent cost management. The company projects continued earnings growth for 2018, supported by its robust capital investment plan and strategic diversification.
02—Key points
Key Highlights
- Eversource Energy's net income attributable to common shareholders increased to $988.0 million in 2017, up from $942.3 million in 2016, with diluted earnings per share rising to $3.11 from $2.96.
- The electric transmission segment was a key driver of growth, with earnings increasing to $391.9 million in 2017, up from $370.8 million in 2016, due to higher transmission rate base from ongoing infrastructure investments.
- Eversource completed the acquisition of Aquarion Water Company in December 2017 for $1.675 billion, adding water utility services to its portfolio.
- Positive regulatory outcomes were achieved, including approved annual distribution rate increases for CL&P and NSTAR Electric, with NSTAR Electric's rate case decision resulting in a $44.1 million pre-tax benefit in 2017.
- Capital expenditures for 2018-2021 are projected at $10.8 billion, focusing on electric and natural gas distribution ($5.7 billion) and electric transmission ($4.1 billion).
- PSNH completed the sale of its thermal generation facilities in January 2018, with net proceeds of $134.1 million.
- The company's credit rating was upgraded by S&P to A+ with a stable outlook, reflecting its strong financial performance and strategic positioning.
03—One dollar
04—Financials
Financial Highlights
Figures from 10-KFY2017filed February 26, 2018Financial Statements
FY2017 against FY2016
| Line item | FY2017FY2016 | Change |
|---|---|---|
| Revenue | $7.75B$7.64B | +1.5% |
| Operating Expenses | $5.86B$5.80B | +1.1% |
| Operating Income | $1.89B$1.84B | +2.6% |
| Interest Expense | $421.75M$400.96M | +5.2% |
| Net Income | $995.51M$949.82M | +4.8% |
| EPS (Basic) | $3.11$2.97 | +4.7% |
| EPS (Diluted) | $3.11$2.96 | +5.1% |
| Shares Outstanding (Basic) | 317.41M317.65M | −0.1% |
| Shares Outstanding (Diluted) | 318.03M318.45M | −0.1% |
05—Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Eversource Energy's financial performance in 2017?
Eversource Energy reported an increase in net income attributable to common shareholders to $988.0 million, or $3.11 per diluted share, compared to $942.3 million, or $2.96 per diluted share, in 2016. This growth was driven by strong performance in the electric transmission segment and positive regulatory outcomes.
What were the key strategic initiatives undertaken by Eversource Energy in 2017?
A major strategic move was the acquisition of Aquarion Water Company in December 2017 for $1.675 billion, diversifying the company's utility services. Additionally, Eversource continued to invest heavily in infrastructure upgrades across its electric and natural gas distribution and transmission businesses.
How did regulatory matters impact Eversource Energy in 2017?
Eversource experienced favorable regulatory outcomes, including approved rate increases for its key electric utilities, CL&P and NSTAR Electric. The NSTAR Electric rate case decision provided a significant pre-tax benefit in 2017. The company is also navigating the impacts of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which is expected to result in rate adjustments for customers.
What is Eversource Energy's outlook for capital expenditures and future growth?
Eversource Energy projects capital expenditures of approximately $10.8 billion from 2018 through 2021, primarily for electric and natural gas distribution and electric transmission infrastructure. This investment plan is expected to support continued earnings growth and operational improvements.
06—Continue