Ameren Announces 2023 Results and Issues Guidance for 2024 Earnings and Long-Term Growth

Core Insights - Ameren Corporation reported a net income of $1,152 million for 2023, translating to a diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $4.38, an increase from $1,074 million and $4.14 in 2022 respectively [1][2] - The company has established a diluted EPS guidance range for 2024 between $4.52 and $4.72, with a projected compound annual growth rate of 6% to 8% from 2024 to 2028 [1][4] Financial Performance - The increase in earnings for 2023 was attributed to solid operating performance, infrastructure investments across all business segments, and new electric service rates in Ameren Missouri effective July 9, 2023 [2][3] - Ameren Missouri's earnings for 2023 were $545 million, down from $562 million in 2022, primarily due to lower electric retail sales influenced by weather conditions [6] - Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution segment saw earnings rise to $258 million in 2023 from $202 million in 2022, benefiting from a higher allowed return on equity due to increased U.S. Treasury bond yields [6] Strategic Initiatives - The company made significant strides in executing its strategy, including substantial energy infrastructure investments and updates to Ameren Missouri's Integrated Resource Plan, focusing on a diverse mix of generation investments [3][4] - Ameren's multi-year earnings growth is expected to be driven by a projected rate base growth of approximately 8.2% compounded annually from 2023 through 2028 [4] Segment Results - Ameren Illinois Natural Gas segment reported earnings of $134 million in 2023, up from $123 million in 2022, due to increased infrastructure investments and lower operations and maintenance expenses [7] - The Ameren Transmission segment's earnings improved to $296 million in 2023 from $263 million in 2022, reflecting increased earnings on infrastructure investments [7] Future Outlook - The company remains focused on modernizing the energy grid and transitioning to a cleaner energy portfolio while maintaining disciplined cost management [4] - Ameren will conduct a conference call on February 23, 2024, to discuss 2023 earnings and 2024 guidance [8]