Industry Overview - The Zacks Utility – Electric Power sector presents a strong investment case due to consistent cash flows and reliable regulated business models [1] - Utilities are increasingly investing in renewable infrastructure, including solar, wind, and battery storage, in response to global decarbonization efforts [2] Company Comparisons NextEra Energy (NEE) - NextEra Energy is recognized as a leading clean energy investment, with its subsidiary Florida Power & Light being the largest regulated utility in the U.S., providing predictable cash flows [3] - NextEra Energy Resources is the world's largest generator of wind and solar energy, focusing on long-term growth through clean energy projects [3] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for NEE's earnings per share in 2025 has decreased by 0.27%, with a long-term growth projection of 6.55% [8] NRG Energy (NRG) - NRG Energy has a strong integrated power model and aims for net-zero emissions by 2050, securing steady cash flows through retail electricity operations [4] - NRG's earnings per share estimates for 2025 and 2026 have increased by 2.78% and 9.12%, respectively, with a long-term growth projection of 16.2% [6] - NRG's return on equity (ROE) is significantly higher at 73.78% compared to NEE's 12.06% [7][13] Financial Metrics - NRG Energy's debt-to-capital ratio is 79.56%, while NextEra Energy's is 59.79%, with the industry average at 60.81% [15] - NRG is trading at a Price/Earnings Forward 12-month ratio of 18.81X, while NEE is at 18.06X, compared to the industry's 15.1X [16] - NRG's shares have increased by 69.7% over the past three months, while NEE's shares have only gained 0.7% [17] Conclusion - NRG Energy currently has a marginal edge over NextEra Energy, supported by better growth forecasts, higher ROE, and increasing earnings estimates [21]