Guaranteed contracts cut its risk

Article Excerpt

Algonquin Power continues to expand through big acquisitions, which adds risk. Still, the company cuts its risk by buying utilities that add immediately to its cash flow. Algonquin’s renewable energy projects also sell their power under long-term government-guaranteed contracts. ALGONQUIN POWER & UTILITIES $12.62 (Toronto symbol AQN; Shares outstanding: 470.6 million; Market cap: $5.9 billion; TSINetwork Rating: Extra Risk; Dividend yield: 5.2%; www.algonquinpower.com) operates through two main businesses: The Generation Group produces and sells electricity from 35 clean energy facilities across North America; and the Distribution Group provides regulated electricity, natural gas, water distribution and wastewater collection services. In January 2017, Algonquin completed its biggest acquisition to date: the $3.4 billion purchase of Missouri-based Empire District Electric. In the quarter ended March 31, 2018, overall revenue rose 17.3%, to $494.8 million from $421.7 million a year earlier. (All figures except share price and market cap in U.S. dollars effective January 1, 2018.) Cash flow improved 14.8%, to $179.9 million from $156.7 million. However, on more…