NextEra Energy vs. GE Vernova: Which Energy Transition Stock Wins?

Core Insights - The global shift towards renewable energy sources is being driven by decarbonization goals, stricter emissions standards, and expanding clean-energy mandates, leading to increased investor interest in companies like NextEra Energy (NEE) and GE Vernova (GEV) [1] Industry Overview - The share of renewable energy in global power generation is rising, replacing fossil fuels and aiding in climate goals. Factors such as long-term power purchase agreements, stable revenue, and advanced technology are enhancing the financial attractiveness of the renewable sector [2] Company Profiles - NextEra Energy is a leading regulated utility and one of the largest renewable energy developers, providing stable earnings and exposure to clean energy growth. GE Vernova focuses on power generation equipment and grid modernization, positioning itself as a key player in electrification and decarbonization [3][18] NextEra Energy (NEE) Highlights - NEE's long-term earnings per share (EPS) growth outlook through 2028 is supported by the addition of renewable assets and strong execution across business segments, projecting a compound annual growth rate of over 8% through 2035 [5][10] - The company plans to add 76.5-107.6 gigawatts (GW) of new renewable capacity from 2026 to 2032, with a current backlog of 29.8 GW in signed contracts [6] GE Vernova (GEV) Highlights - GEV is focused on energy transition, with a diversified portfolio across Power, Wind, and Electrification, serving the entire electricity value chain [7][18] - The launch of GridOS for Distribution in February 2026 aims to enhance utilities' management of distribution grids, increasing recurring software revenue potential. GEV also completed the acquisition of Prolec GE, expanding its North American presence [8] Financial Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for NEE indicates a year-over-year EPS increase of 7.82% for 2026 and 8.9% for 2027 [9] - For GEV, the 2026 EPS estimate shows a decline of 21.09%, while the 2027 estimate suggests a recovery with a 55.01% increase [11] Dividend and Valuation - NEE has a current dividend yield of 2.46%, compared to GEV's 0.24%, with the S&P 500 composite at 1.08% [13] - NEE's forward Price/Earnings (P/E) ratio is 22.73X, while GEV's is significantly higher at 55.07X, making NEE more attractive from a valuation perspective [14] Return on Equity (ROE) - NEE's current ROE is 12.18%, while GEV boasts a much higher ROE of 46.91%, indicating different efficiency levels in utilizing shareholders' funds [15] Stock Performance - Over the past six months, GEV shares have increased by 37.9%, while NEE shares have risen by 22.4% [16] Investment Recommendation - Currently, NextEra Energy is favored due to its stronger earnings growth, higher dividend yield, and more attractive valuation compared to GE Vernova, with both companies holding a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold) [19]