Core Insights - NextEra Energy, Inc. (NEE) has established a strong position in Florida's utility market through its subsidiary Florida Power & Light Company (FPL), supported by long-term franchise agreements with municipalities that provide exclusive electric service rights [1][2][3] Group 1: Franchise Agreements - FPL holds 226 franchise agreements with municipalities and counties in Florida, which are set to expire at various dates up to 2054, covering the majority of its retail customers [2] - These agreements create a legal framework that allows FPL to access public rights-of-way in exchange for franchise fees, incentivizing municipalities to renew them for mutual benefits [2][3] - The long-term nature of these contracts provides NextEra with a regulatory moat, reducing competition from alternative power providers [3][5] Group 2: Infrastructure and Growth - NextEra leverages its municipal relationships to modernize infrastructure, including grid upgrades and clean energy initiatives, aligning with state and federal decarbonization goals [4][5] - The franchise agreements contribute to a stable operating environment, enabling planned maintenance and efficient capital investment, which enhances reliability and reduces outages [6] Group 3: Financial Performance - NextEra projects an annual earnings per share (EPS) growth of 6-8% through 2027, supported by the stability provided by franchise agreements [9][11] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for NEE's 2025 EPS is projected to be between $3.45 and $3.70, indicating a year-over-year growth of 7.3% [11] - NextEra's trailing 12-month return on equity (ROE) stands at 12.06%, outperforming the industry average of 10.41%, indicating efficient use of shareholders' equity [13]