Neither the author, Tim Fries, nor this website, The Tokenist, provide financial advice. Please consult our website policy prior to making financial decisions.
Fortis Inc. (TSX/NYSE: FTS) announced its financial results for the third quarter of 2024. The company reported impressive net earnings of $420 million, or $0.85 per common share, marking an increase from $394 million, or $0.81 per share, in the same period last year.
This growth is attributed to rate base expansion and favorable earnings in Arizona, particularly from Tucson Electric Power’s new customer rates effective September 2023. Additionally, unrealized gains on derivative contracts contributed positively to the earnings, offsetting some higher finance costs and timing issues related to FortisBC’s cost of capital parameters.
Year-to-date performance also showcased robust growth, with net earnings reaching $1.2 billion, or $2.45 per common share, up from $1.125 billion, or $2.32 per share, in 2023. The increase was driven by similar factors as the quarterly results, including rate base growth and strong performance in Arizona.
However, this was partially offset by elevated operating costs at Central Hudson and the disposition of Aitken Creek. Despite these challenges, Fortis maintained its trajectory of growth, further supported by an increase in the weighted average number of common shares outstanding, largely due to the corporation’s dividend reinvestment plan.
Fortis Reports Better than Expected Third Quarter in 2024
Fortis’ third-quarter performance exceeded market expectations, with earnings per share (EPS) surpassing the anticipated $0.597, reaching $0.85. This significant outperformance highlights the company’s effective execution of its capital programs and strategic initiatives.
The company’s success in exceeding expectations reflects its strong operational management and strategic investments. The earnings growth was driven by factors such as the expansion of the rate base and favorable regulatory outcomes in Arizona.
Additionally, Fortis’ ability to manage costs effectively and leverage its diversified asset base contributed to the positive performance. This achievement underscores the company’s resilience and adaptability in a challenging economic environment.
Join our Telegram group and never miss a breaking story.
Fortis Guidance and Future Outlook
Looking ahead, Fortis has outlined an ambitious capital plan, with capital expenditures for 2024 projected at approximately $5.2 billion, up from the previously anticipated $4.8 billion. The increase is attributed to the Eagle Mountain Pipeline project at FortisBC Energy and a favorable U.S.-to-Canadian dollar exchange rate.
The company has already invested $3.6 billion through September, indicating strong progress in executing its capital program. Additionally, Fortis has unveiled a new 2025-2029 capital plan totaling $26 billion, focused on projects associated with the Midcontinent Independent System Operator’s long-range transmission plan and other strategic initiatives.
Fortis remains committed to its regulated growth strategy, with a focus on annual dividend growth of 4-6% through 2029. The company aims to enhance shareholder value by executing its capital plan and leveraging growth opportunities within its service territories.
Fortis’ long-term growth in rate base is expected to drive earnings that support the dividend growth guidance, reinforcing its commitment to delivering value to shareholders while ensuring reliable and affordable energy for its customers.
Disclaimer: The author does not hold or have a position in any securities discussed in the article.
The post Fortis Inc. (TSX/NYSE: FTS) Reports $420 Million Net Earnings in Q3, $0.85 EPS appeared first on Tokenist.