How Is CEG Using Acquisitions to Accelerate Clean Energy Growth?

Core Insights - Constellation Energy Corporation (CEG) is expanding its market reach and clean energy portfolio through strategic partnerships and acquisitions, aiming for opportunistic energy acquisitions focused on reliability [1][5] Acquisition Details - In January 2025, CEG announced the acquisition of Calpine for nearly $16.4 billion in a cash and stock transaction, combining CEG's clean energy production with Calpine's natural gas assets, enhancing customer supply capabilities [2][9] - The acquisition is expected to close in Q4 2025 after receiving regulatory approval from the New York State Public Service Commission in June 2025 [2] Financial Impact - The acquisition is projected to boost CEG's earnings per share (EPS) by over 20% in 2026 and add at least $2 to EPS through 2029, with the combined company expected to generate over $2 billion in free cash flow annually before growth [3][5] Recent Acquisitions - In 2023, CEG acquired a 44% stake in the South Texas Project Electric Generating Station for $1.75 billion, adding nearly 1,100 megawatts of output to its carbon-free nuclear fleet [4] Market Position - CEG's strategic acquisitions are enhancing its position as a leading clean energy provider, expanding its customer base, and increasing financial strength, with immediate earnings accretion and significant free cash flow expected [5][9] Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate indicates a 9% increase in EPS for 2025 and a 22% increase for 2026, with current estimates for the next quarters showing growth [8][10] Stock Performance - CEG is trading at a premium with a forward 12-month price-to-earnings ratio of 30.08X compared to the industry average of 20.72X, and its shares have risen 29.8% over the past six months, outperforming the industry's 13.2% growth [11][13]