National Grid (NGG) Q2 2026 Earnings Transcript

Core Insights - National Grid reported a strong first half with a focus on operational excellence and capital discipline, aiming to deliver reliable and clean energy while meeting growing demand [1][2][3] - The company is committed to a GBP 60 billion capital investment program, projecting around 10% annual investment growth and 6% to 8% underlying earnings per share growth [4][5] Investment and Operational Performance - National Grid has invested over GBP 5 billion in the first half, with a target of over GBP 11 billion for the full year, reflecting a 12% year-on-year increase [8][30] - The company has secured the supply chain for its major projects, with over 75% of the GBP 60 billion investment plan underpinned by delivery mechanisms [7][19] - The U.K. Electricity Transmission capital investment increased by 31% to GBP 1.7 billion, driven by new substations and ongoing projects [19][32] Regulatory and Policy Developments - Approximately 75% of the U.S. five-year investment plan has been approved within rate cases, indicating strong regulatory support [8][11] - New York State's shift towards an all-of-the-above energy approach aims to balance clean energy goals with affordability, potentially reducing energy costs by up to $6 billion through the NESE pipeline [9][10] - The U.K. government is exploring ways to expedite infrastructure delivery, which could benefit future transmission projects [11][12] Financial Performance - Underlying operating profit increased by 13% to GBP 2.3 billion, driven by higher regulatory revenues in both U.K. and U.S. electricity transmission businesses [13][30] - Underlying earnings per share rose by 6% to 29.8p, supported by strong operating performance despite higher finance costs [30][38] - Cash generated from continuing operations was GBP 3.6 billion, a 35% increase compared to the prior year, reflecting improved profitability [38] Future Outlook and Strategic Priorities - National Grid aims to maintain momentum in capital delivery and regulatory engagement, focusing on the RIIO-T3 framework to ensure competitive returns [41][43] - The company is preparing for upcoming regulatory decisions and is actively engaging with stakeholders to facilitate connections and infrastructure development [21][43] - Strategic priorities include enhancing collaboration with the AI Energy Council and advancing construction across Wave 1 ASTI projects [41][43]