CMS Energy Corporation - CMS STOCK NEWS

CMS Energy has disclosed the tax status of its 2020 common stock dividends. The dividends, amounting to $0.4075 per share, were paid on various dates throughout the year, including February 28, May 29, August 31, and November 30, 2020. Notably, there was no return of capital percentage reported for these dividends, indicating they are ordinary and qualified dividends. Shareholders are advised to consult their tax advisors for specifics regarding tax treatment. For further dividend details, investors can visit CMS Energy's website.

Consumers Energy, Michigan's largest energy provider and a subsidiary of CMS, has shared crucial safety and savings tips as cold temperatures are expected to hit the state. The company emphasizes safety and energy efficiency, offering strategies such as lowering heating costs by adjusting thermostats, maintaining heating systems, and sealing air leaks. They also highlight the importance of carbon monoxide safety and provide information on financial assistance for those struggling with energy bills. The company has allocated $21 million for community support since the COVID-19 pandemic began.

CMS Energy reported a 2020 earnings per share of $2.64, up from $2.39 in 2019. The adjusted earnings per share rose to $2.67, compared to $2.49 the previous year. For 2021, the company raised its adjusted earnings guidance to between $2.83 and $2.87, reflecting a growth outlook of 6% to 8%. CMS Energy committed over $80 million to assist customers during the pandemic and invested more than $700 million in clean energy infrastructure. The company aims to lead the transition to renewable energy.

CMS Energy has announced the appointment of Christine Wisniewski as Vice President of Operations Performance, effective February 1, 2021. Wisniewski, who has been with Consumers Energy since 2014, will guide the implementation of lean operating principles to enhance the company's performance in gas and electric operations. Her focus on data and operational strategy aims to improve customer service and system reliability. Wisniewski holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Michigan-Flint and a Six Sigma Blackbelt in Lean Operations.

Consumers Energy has announced a new $3 million initiative to aid Michigan residents struggling with energy bills, bringing total assistance during the pandemic to $21 million. This funding will support seven local nonprofits, expected to benefit thousands of households facing financial hardship. Additionally, the company has previously allocated $12 million to assist over 40,000 households and small businesses, along with other community support initiatives. Consumers Energy remains committed to keeping energy costs low for its customers.

CMS Energy's Board of Directors has increased the quarterly dividend from 40.75 cents to 43.50 cents per share, resulting in an annualized yield of 3% based on the recent closing price of $58.70. The first quarter dividend is payable on Feb. 26, 2021, with a record date of Feb. 5, 2021. The annualized dividend now stands at $1.74 per share, reflecting the company's successful execution of its strategy, according to CEO Garrick Rochow.

Consumers Energy and the City of Jackson are launching the Our Town meal distribution program to support local restaurants and provide free meals for families in need. Starting Feb. 1 and lasting for 10 weeks, the program will distribute thousands of meals, funded by nearly $500,000 from Consumers Energy and community partners. Over 20 locally owned restaurants will prepare meals, with a focus on sourcing ingredients locally. This initiative is inspired by similar programs and aims to help local businesses during the pandemic.

CMS Energy will announce its 2020 year-end results and financial outlook on February 4, 2021, at 9:30 a.m. EST. The announcement will include details on the company’s performance in the preceding year.

A webcast of the presentation will be available on the company's website, with an audio replay accessible about three hours post-event. CMS Energy primarily operates an electric and natural gas utility, Consumers Energy, and has independent power generation ventures.

Consumers Energy has announced that the Gratiot Farms Wind Project is operational, contributing 150 megawatts of clean energy to Michigan. This project, which began operations on December 16, 2020, features 60 turbines and can power approximately 58,000 residents. The investment in this project amounts to $260 million, supporting local employment and tax revenue. It aligns with Consumers Energy's Clean Energy Plan, aiming for net-zero carbon emissions and reliance on renewable energy sources.