...Continued Earnings Growth: Earnings for electric and gas utilities continued their steady growth in second-quarter 2015. On a year-over-year basis, the median second-quarter earnings per share (EPS) and YTD EPS grew by 4% and 3%, respectively, for Fitch Ratings' sample of electric and gas utility companies, despite mostly unfavorable weather comparisons due to an unusually cold winter in early 2014. Earnings Guidance Affirmed or Increased: The majority of utilities in Fitch's study affirmed their full-year 2015 EPS guidance, and nearly one-fifth of the utilities increased their guidance. Strong financial results during first-half 2015 and expectations for good performance for the remainder of 2015 prompted the increased EPS guidance. Weather normalization, constructive rate outcomes, cost controls, and relatively modest net sales growth continue to be embedded in 2015 expectations. Stable Financial Metrics: Key financial metrics across the utilities, power and gas sector remain broadly...
