NRG Energy Inc. (NRG)vsEssential Utilities Inc (WTRG)
NRG
NRG Energy Inc.
$113.46
+1.62%
UTILITIES · Cap: $25.15B
WTRG
Essential Utilities Inc
$41.07
-1.75%
UTILITIES · Cap: $11.90B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
NRG Energy Inc. generates 1190% more annual revenue ($33.12B vs $2.57B). WTRG leads profitability with a 21.6% profit margin vs 2.6%. NRG appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.46. NRG earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 60/100 (C+).
NRG
Buy60
out of 100
Grade: C+
WTRG
Buy56
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Intrinsic value data unavailable for NRG.
Margin of Safety
+45.1%
Fair Value
$68.22
Current Price
$41.07
$27.15 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Growing faster than its price suggests
Strong operational efficiency at 35.4%
Keeps 22 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Reasonable price relative to book value
Areas to Watch
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Distress zone — elevated risk
2.6% margin — thin
Earnings declined 85.6%
3.1% revenue growth
ROE of 7.9% — below average capital efficiency
Elevated debt levels
Weak financial health signals
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : NRG
The strongest argument for NRG centers on PEG Ratio. Revenue growth of 11.0% demonstrates continued momentum. PEG of 0.46 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : WTRG
The strongest argument for WTRG centers on Operating Margin, Profit Margin, Price/Book. Profitability is solid with margins at 21.6% and operating margin at 35.4%.
Bear Case : NRG
The primary concerns for NRG are P/E Ratio, Altman Z-Score, Profit Margin. Debt-to-equity of 4.83 is elevated, increasing financial risk. Thin 2.6% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Bear Case : WTRG
The primary concerns for WTRG are Revenue Growth, Return on Equity, Debt/Equity.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
NRG carries more volatility with a beta of 1.17 — expect wider price swings.
NRG is growing revenue faster at 11.0% — sustainability is the question.
NRG generates stronger free cash flow (779M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor UTILITIES - INDEPENDENT POWER PRODUCERS industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
NRG scores higher overall (60/100 vs 56/100) and 11.0% revenue growth. WTRG offers better value entry with a 45.1% margin of safety. Both earn "Buy" and "Buy" ratings respectively — the choice depends on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.
This analysis is generated from publicly available financial data. Not financial advice.
NRG Energy Inc.
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - INDEPENDENT POWER PRODUCERS · USA
NRG Energy, Inc. is a large American energy company, headquartered in Houston, Texas. It was formerly the wholesale arm of Northern States Power Company (NSP), which became Xcel Energy, but became independent in 2000. NRG Energy is involved in energy generation and retail electricity.
Essential Utilities Inc
UTILITIES · UTILITIES - REGULATED WATER · USA
Essential Utilities, Inc. operates regulated utilities that provide water, wastewater, or natural gas services in the United States. The company is headquartered in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania.
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