Intel(US:INTC) Goldman Sachs·2025-11-24 01:46Investment Rating - The report indicates a positive outlook for utility companies, with a focus on both high-growth and low-risk investment opportunities [8]. Core Insights - Data center electricity demand is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 2.5%-2.6% over the next decade, with significant potential remaining as many facilities are not yet fully operational [5][6]. - Utility companies are significantly increasing their capital expenditure plans, with Duke Energy forecasting a capital plan of $95 billion to $105 billion from 2026 to 2030, up from a previous plan of $87 billion over five years [6][8]. - The regulatory environment is crucial for the development of utility companies, with strict regulations impacting transmission investments, which typically offer higher returns [7]. Summary by Sections Data Center Demand - The report highlights that data centers are a key growth driver, with actual demand growth aligning with long-term forecasts [5]. - Many large data center facilities are still in the process of being fully operational, indicating further growth potential in the coming years [5]. Utility Companies' Capital Expenditure - Utility companies are optimistic about their capital expenditure outlook, with many raising their capital plans and corresponding earnings growth expectations [6]. - The average expected earnings growth for utility stocks rated as "buy" is projected at 9% over the next five years [6]. Regulatory Environment - The changing regulatory landscape may introduce increased risks and uncertainties for utility companies, particularly with recent shifts in state regulatory commissions [7]. - Customer bills in the PJM regional grid have risen by 15%-20% over the past year, prompting states to consider new procurement processes to manage costs [7]. Investment Strategies - Investors are adopting a "barbell" investment strategy, focusing on both high-growth companies like NextEra and Sempra, and lower-risk companies like Duke Energy, which is expected to see earnings growth of 7-8% [8]. - Companies with exposure to data center opportunities, such as Furtive, Flux, and Jabal, are highlighted as potential investment targets due to their growth potential in the AI data center space [14]. Supercomputing Trends - The report notes a 17% upward revision in performance forecasts for major hyperscale companies by 2026, necessitating substantial infrastructure investments [9]. - Prefabricated power and cooling solutions are being adopted to enhance installation efficiency and address labor shortages [10][11]. Cooling and Power Requirements - The increasing power levels of data center racks, now exceeding 100 kW, are creating new demands for power and cooling solutions [13]. - Companies are exploring liquid cooling technologies and high-voltage power supply options to meet future demands [13].