Prospering despite rising fuel costs

Article Excerpt

These three leading electricity producers use coal, natural gas or oil to generate power, so they’re vulnerable to rising prices for these commodities. Rate hikes should help them offset the higher costs. However, it can take several months before the higher rates have an impact on earnings. To cut risk and enhance growth, all three of these electric utilities are now successfully diversifying into other businesses, such as natural gas pipelines and wind farms. These new projects also give them more cash to fund capital upgrades, and maintain their above-average dividends. We see all three as buys, particularly for income-seeking investors. EMERA INC. $23 (Toronto symbol EMA; Income Portfolio, Utilities sector; Shares outstanding: 111.6 million; Market cap: $2.6 billion; SI Rating: Average) generates and distributes electricity to over 600,000 customers in Nova Scotia and Bangor, Maine. Emera uses coal to generate nearly 70% of its electricity. Oil and natural gas supply 15% of its output, while wind and power purchased from other suppliers provides…