CMS Energy Corporation - CMS STOCK NEWS

CMS Energy reported strong financial results for 2021, delivering earnings per share of $4.66, up from $2.64 in 2020. Adjusted earnings per share reached $2.65, compared to $2.47 the previous year. The company announced a $0.10 increase in its annual dividend to $1.84 for 2022 and has revised its adjusted earnings guidance to a range of $2.85 to $2.89 per share. Additionally, CMS Energy reaffirmed its long-term adjusted EPS growth target of 6 to 8 percent amidst a new $14.3 billion investment plan.

Consumers Energy and General Motors have announced a partnership to power Michigan's automotive plants in Flint, Burton, and Wyoming with 100% clean energy. This 20-year agreement signifies a commitment to supporting approximately 70 megawatts of renewable energy, enabling GM to reduce carbon emissions by offsetting 235,000 metric tons annually, equivalent to emissions from 51,000 cars. GM aims to source 100% renewable energy in the U.S. by 2025, aligning with Consumers Energy's goal of being carbon neutral by 2040, with 90% of energy needs met through clean sources.

CMS Energy announced the appointment of Norm Kapala as vice president of generation operations, effective February 1, 2022. Kapala, who has been with Consumers Energy since 2008, previously served as executive director of fossil and renewable generation. In his new role, he will oversee the company's fossil-fueled, hydroelectric, and renewable generating units, as CMS transitions through its Clean Energy Plan. His extensive experience and strong relationships within the company are highlighted as assets to navigate upcoming challenges.

CMS Energy has increased its quarterly dividend to 46 cents per share, up from 43.50 cents. Based on the closing price of $62.35, this provides an annualized yield of 3 percent. The first quarter dividend is payable on Feb. 28, 2022, to shareholders of record on Feb. 11, 2022. CEO Garrick Rochow stated that this decision reflects the successful execution of the company's strategy and underscores their commitment to rewarding investors while maintaining industry-leading performance.

The Consumers Energy Foundation has announced grants totaling nearly $500,000 for three projects aimed at enhancing workforce readiness and providing basic needs in Michigan. The grants were awarded to Muskegon Community College ($238,200) for a new STEM lab, Ottawa & Allegan County United Way ($150,000) for a Goods Donation Center, and Michigan Community College Association ($100,000) for training resources. This initiative is part of a larger allocation of $1.5 million in 2021, reflecting the Foundation's commitment to supporting educational and economic stability.

CMS Energy will announce its 2021 year-end results and provide a business and financial outlook on February 3, 2022, at 9:30 a.m. EST. The presentation will be available via a webcast on the company's website, with an audio replay offered three hours post-event for 30 days. Headquartered in Michigan, CMS Energy operates Consumers Energy and independent power generation businesses.

Consumers Energy has announced a $4.5 million commitment to assist Michigan households. This includes $1 million for winter aid and $3.5 million for a pilot program aimed at vulnerable households, pending Michigan Public Service Commission approval. This initiative adds to the $20 million already contributed over the last two years. Partnering with local nonprofits, the funds aim to support families facing energy challenges. Customers are encouraged to access help through community resources or by contacting Consumers Energy directly.

Consumers Energy has announced a partnership with Swisslane Farms to build a biodigester facility that will transform agricultural waste into renewable natural gas (RNG) in Michigan. This $17 million project aims to reduce methane emissions by capturing methane from dairy manure, potentially equivalent to removing 4,000 gasoline vehicles off the roads annually. The facility, pending regulatory approval, could produce enough RNG to heat nearly 1,000 homes on a cold winter day, marking a significant step toward a clean energy future.

Consumers Energy highlights significant savings for electric vehicle (EV) drivers this holiday season, with potential savings of up to 60% compared to traditional fuel costs. The average cost for a 50-mile EV trip is $2.63, while gasoline vehicles incur costs of $6.36. The company has established 34 fast charging stations and nearly 200 Level 2 charging stations across Michigan to support EV drivers. With over 1,200 homes utilizing charging rebates and a goal to power 1 million EVs by 2030, Consumers Energy is positioning Michigan for a significant shift towards electrified mobility.