Idacorp: the unchallenged leader in energy transformation
Idacorp $IDA is a regulated electric utility in a fast-growing region of the U.S. (Idaho + Eastern Oregon). It combines stable earnings with unexpectedly strong growth potential stemming from demographic expansion, hydropower and data center development.
- Low cost of energy - Hydropower keeps the price below 10 cents/kWh (1/3 of the price in northeastern states)
- Demand growth: Expected consumption growth of +8.3% per year (vs. historical +1%)
- Meta builds data center near Boise - supporting long-term demand
- Long history: Idaho Power has been in operation for over 100 years
- Planned investments: $5.6 billion over 5 years (2x more than before)
- Earnings growth: Analysts predict +8% per year, some as high as +14%
- P/E (2027e): approx. 17× - cheaper than growth utilities
- Dividend: Around 3%, with regular growth
- Target price: $129 (analyst C. Ellinghaus), +11% above current value
- Generates most of its own electricity → lower cost volatility
- Hydropower = green and cheap
- Proactive approach to regulatory changes and tariff adjustments
- Stable balance sheet: net debt/EBITDA = 4.3x, still under control
- Raised $575mn. USD 575 million in equity issuance, secured financing until 2026
Idacorp $IDA Not just another boring utility. It's a growth-oriented company with a green profile, a favorable location and strong fundamentals. At a time when investors are looking for long-term stability and fair valuations, IDA may be an attractive choice for the defensive portion of a portfolio, with the potential for natural appreciation of 8-10% per year.
As a stable portfolio component for some diversification, it's great.
For me, such stocks are ideal and a regular 10% growth is great.
The growth is weak for me and I would rather invest in the SP500.