Xcel Energy Misses Q1 Earnings and Revenue Estimates, to Invest $45B

Core Viewpoint - Xcel Energy Inc. reported a decline in first-quarter 2025 operating earnings, missing consensus estimates due to increased operational costs and expenses [1][5]. Financial Performance - Operating earnings for Q1 2025 were 84 cents per share, down 4.5% from 88 cents in the same quarter last year [1][2]. - Total revenues reached $3.9 billion, slightly missing the consensus estimate of $3.92 billion but showing a 7.1% increase from $3.65 billion year-over-year [3]. - Operating income decreased by 2.9% year-over-year to $677 million [5]. Segment Performance - Electric segment revenues were $2.83 billion, up 5.6% from $2.68 billion in the prior year [4]. - Natural gas segment revenues increased by 12.1% to $1.05 billion from $0.94 billion year-over-year [4]. - Other revenues fell to $16 million from $23 million in the previous year [4]. Expense Analysis - Total operating expenses rose by 8.7% year-over-year to $3.23 billion, driven by higher electric fuel and purchased power costs, as well as increased operating and maintenance expenses [5]. - Interest charges and financing costs increased by 11.6% from $277 million to $309 million [6]. Customer Volume and Sales - Electric customer volume grew by 1.1%, while natural gas customer volume increased by 0.9% [6]. - Natural gas sales rose by 0.5%, and electric sales volume increased by 1.9% compared to the previous year [6]. Guidance and Future Outlook - Xcel Energy reaffirmed its 2025 earnings per share guidance in the range of $3.75-$3.85, with the consensus estimate at $3.81 [7]. - Retail electric sales are expected to increase by 3% in 2025, while natural gas sales volumes are anticipated to rise by 1% [7]. - The company plans to invest $45 billion from 2025 to 2029 to enhance its infrastructure [7]. Zacks Rank - Xcel Energy currently holds a Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) [8].