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Fortis Inc. Reports Fourth Quarter & Annual 2024 Results

In This Article:

Fortis Inc.
Fortis Inc.

This news release constitutes a "Designated News Release" incorporated by reference in the prospectus supplement

dated December 9, 2024 to Fortis' short form base shelf prospectus dated December 9, 2024.

ST. JOHN'S, Newfoundland and Labrador, Feb. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Fortis Inc. ("Fortis" or the "Corporation") (TSX/NYSE: FTS), a well-diversified leader in the North American regulated electric and gas utility industry, released its 2024 fourth quarter and annual financial results.1

Highlights

  • Annual net earnings of $1.6 billion, or $3.24 per common share for 2024

  • Annual adjusted net earnings per common share2 of $3.28, up from $3.09 for 2023, representing 6% growth3

  • Capital expenditures2 of $5.2 billion, yielding 6% annual rate base growth3

  • Tranche 2.1 projects approved by MISO; ITC now estimates US$3.7-$4.2 billion in investments, with majority expected post-2029

  • 4.2% increase in fourth quarter common share dividend achieving 51 years of common share dividend increases

"In 2024, Fortis extended its track record of strong EPS and rate base growth," said David Hutchens, President and Chief Executive Officer, Fortis Inc. "We executed a $5.2 billion capital program, outperformed industry averages for safety and reliability performance, and continued to be recognized as a leader for our governance practices."

"We remain focused on extending our track record as we execute our $26 billion five-year capital plan in support of our annual dividend growth guidance of 4-6% through 2029," said Mr. Hutchens. "Fortis' strength comes from the dedication and hard work of our people, and we appreciate their efforts in making 2024 another successful year."

Net Earnings

The Corporation reported net earnings attributable to common shareholders ("Net Earnings") of $1.6 billion, or $3.24 per common share for 2024, compared to $1.5 billion, or $3.10 per common share for 2023. Growth in earnings was primarily driven by rate base growth across our utilities. New customer rates at Tucson Electric Power ("TEP") effective September 1, 2023 and Central Hudson effective July 1, 2024, and an unfavourable deferred income tax adjustment recognized by ITC in 2023, also contributed to earnings growth. The increase was partially offset by higher holding company finance costs, unrealized losses on derivative contracts, and a $10 million gain realized upon the disposition of Aitken Creek in 2023. The recognition of a refund liability at ITC in 2024 associated with a reduction in the Midcontinent Independent System Operator ("MISO") base rate of return on common equity ("ROE"), largely reflecting the retroactive impact to prior periods, also unfavourably impacted earnings. An increase in the weighted average number of common shares outstanding related to the Corporation's dividend reinvestment plan, also impacted earnings per common share.