Eversource posts rise in quarterly profit as gas earnings strengthen, one‑time charges fade

Core Viewpoint - Eversource Energy reported a significant increase in fourth-quarter profit, driven by improved performance in its gas business and the absence of substantial one-time charges that impacted earnings in the previous year [1]. Financial Performance - Eversource's net income for the fourth quarter reached $421.3 million, or $1.12 per share, compared to $72.5 million, or 20 cents per share, in the same quarter last year [1]. - The natural gas segment earned $123.6 million, up from $103.4 million a year earlier [1]. Future Outlook - The company forecasts 2026 profit to be between $4.80 and $4.95 per share, with analysts estimating a full-year profit of $4.97 per share [1]. - Eversource expects its long-term earnings per share growth rate to remain in the range of 5% to 7% through 2030 [1]. Capital Investment - Eversource raised its five-year capital investment plan to $26.5 billion, an increase from the previous $24.2 billion, primarily due to higher spending on electric and natural gas distribution infrastructure [1]. - The company anticipates raising between $800 million and $1.1 billion in equity from 2026 to 2030, excluding routine issuances related to its dividend reinvestment and compensation programs [1].