Orient Securities·2026-01-11 12:12Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Positive" outlook for the utility sector, indicating that the expected settlement price for thermal power in 2026 is likely to be better than market expectations [7]. Core Insights - The long-term contract electricity price risk has materialized, and the average reduction in long-term contract electricity prices for 2026 is estimated to be around 3-4 cents per kilowatt-hour. However, the capacity price for coal-fired power is expected to increase by at least 65 yuan per kilowatt per year, which may lead to a lower-than-expected decline in thermal power settlement prices [7]. - The report highlights that the performance expectations for the utility sector have reached a low point, making low-priced utility assets worth considering for investment [7]. - The report suggests that the utility sector remains a quality dividend asset for long-term allocation, especially under the trend of low interest rates and policies encouraging long-term capital market entry [7]. Summary by Sections Electricity Price Dynamics - The average clearing price for the Guangdong electricity market from January 3 to January 9, 2026, was 321 yuan per megawatt-hour, down 51 yuan year-on-year (-13.7%) [10]. - The average price for Shanxi during the same period was 234 yuan per megawatt-hour, down 107 yuan year-on-year (-31.4%) [10]. Coal Price Trends - As of January 9, 2026, the price of Q5500 thermal coal in Qinhuangdao was 699 yuan per ton, reflecting a week-on-week increase of 17 yuan (+2.5%) [15]. - The coal inventory at Qinhuangdao port decreased by 11.6% week-on-week, indicating a tightening supply situation [21]. Performance of Utility Sector - The utility sector index increased by 2.5% during the week of January 5 to January 9, 2026, underperforming compared to the Shanghai Composite Index, which rose by 2.8% [35]. - The report notes that the gas sector within utilities showed the highest weekly increase of 4.8% [37]. Investment Recommendations - The report recommends focusing on quality dividend assets in the utility sector, particularly in thermal power, hydropower, and nuclear power, with specific stocks highlighted for potential investment [7].