Core Viewpoint - The surge in electricity demand driven by the AI boom has led to a significant increase in the stock prices of U.S. power generation and utility companies, but these firms are now facing concerns about the sustainability of this hype as investors reassess the real value and risk in the sector [1][4]. Group 1: Market Reactions - Constellation Energy's stock fell 11% after its Q3 earnings call, which did not provide details on new power generation projects [1]. - Vistra Energy's stock dropped 16% since mid-October due to analysts noting a slower-than-expected rollout of its data center projects [1]. - The S&P 500 Utilities Index is experiencing its worst monthly performance since August after reaching a historical high in October [4]. Group 2: Investor Sentiment - There is a growing skepticism about whether utility companies can achieve the rapid expansion as anticipated, with concerns about potential capital waste on unfeasible projects [7]. - Analysts are questioning the sustainability of electricity demand growth, with some suggesting that utility stocks may be overvalued at current trading prices if demand does not materialize [7][8]. - Despite recent declines, Constellation Energy, NRG Energy, and GE Vernova have seen significant year-to-date stock price increases of 60%, 87%, and 79% respectively, outpacing Nvidia's 34% increase [8]. Group 3: Adjustments in Expectations - Constellation Energy has narrowed its full-year earnings per share forecast, while Vistra Energy has adjusted its EBITDA forecast downward [7]. - NRG Energy maintained its EBITDA forecast but investors had expected an upward revision [7]. Group 4: Future Concerns - The potential for disruptive technological breakthroughs in the AI market could undermine the electricity growth expectations that utility companies rely on [8]. - Such developments would particularly impact unregulated power sellers like Constellation Energy, NRG Energy, and Vistra Energy [9].
AI带来的电力繁荣停滞:美国公用事业股为何转跌?