Evergy(US:EVRG) ZACKS·2024-08-16 15:00Core Viewpoint - Evergy, Inc. (EVRG) is positioned as a solid investment option in the utility sector due to its strategic capital investments aimed at expanding operations, strengthening infrastructure, and improving reliability [1] Growth Projections - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2024 earnings per share (EPS) is $3.84, reflecting a year-over-year growth of 8.5% [2] - The consensus estimate for 2025 EPS has risen by 0.2% over the past 30 days to $4.04 [2] - Evergy's long-term earnings growth rate is projected at 5% over the next three to five years [2] Dividend Yield - Evergy offers a current dividend yield of 4.39%, surpassing the industry average of 3.49% [3] - The company targets a dividend payout ratio of 60-70% annually [3] Debt Position - Evergy's total debt to capital ratio stands at 56.34%, lower than the industry average of 60.93% [4] - The time-to-interest earned ratio was 2.4 at the end of the second quarter, indicating the company's capability to meet future interest obligations [4] Systemic Investments - Evergy plans to invest approximately $12.5 billion in capital investments by 2028, focusing on transmission and distribution infrastructure upgrades [5] - The capital expenditures align with the company's Integrated Resource Plan, which aims for net-zero emissions by 2045 and a 70% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions by 2030 [5] Price Performance - Over the past three months, shares of EVRG have increased by 6.3%, contrasting with a 0.7% decline in the industry [6]