Vistra vs. Public Service Enterprise: Which Utility Stock Stands Out?

Industry Overview - The Zacks Utility-Electric Power industry presents an attractive investment case due to stable cash flows and predictable earnings from regulated business models [1] - The industry is transforming with a global push for decarbonization, leading to increased investments in renewables like solar, wind, and battery storage [2] Company Analysis: Vistra Corp. (VST) - Vistra offers a strong investment case with a diversified generation mix, including natural gas, nuclear, solar, and battery storage, providing stable, carbon-free baseload power [4] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Vistra's earnings per share indicates a year-over-year increase of 67.71% for 2026, with long-term growth projected at 18.89% [7][11] - Vistra's return on equity (ROE) is 64.04%, significantly higher than the industry average of 10.7% [11][13] - Vistra is trading at a lower P/E of 18.3X compared to PEG's 18.68X, indicating better value [11][15] Company Analysis: Public Service Enterprise Group Inc. (PEG) - Public Service Enterprise Group presents a solid investment case with regulated utility operations and a strong carbon-free nuclear portfolio [5] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for PEG's earnings per share implies a year-over-year increase of 8.64% for 2026, with long-term growth projected at 7.05% [10] - PEG's debt-to-capital ratio is 57.88%, lower than Vistra's 75.38%, indicating a more conservative approach to financing [18] Dividend Analysis - PEG has a dividend yield of 3.09%, significantly higher than Vistra's 0.55% and the S&P 500's 1.36%, reflecting stronger cash flow and financial health [20] Summary Comparison - Both Vistra and Public Service Enterprise Group are effectively serving customers and expanding clean power generation assets [21] - Vistra has an edge due to stronger earnings estimates, cheaper valuation, and better ROE, despite PEG's lower debt levels [21]