Exelon - EXC STOCK NEWS

Constellation Energy (Nasdaq: CEG) successfully operated its nuclear plants at full capacity during Winter Storm Elliott, crucially preventing rolling blackouts amid the storm that left nearly a quarter of the PJM energy grid offline on Christmas Eve. As PJM faces up to $2 billion in penalties for non-performing generators, Constellation’s facilities underscore the reliability and carbon-free advantages of nuclear energy. The storm highlighted flaws in PJM's capacity performance policies, raising concerns about the future reliability of the grid amidst climate risks. Constellation calls for improved reliability measures to secure energy supply effectively.

ComEd has restored power to over 55,000 customers following severe ice storms that struck northern Illinois, with approximately 100,000 remaining without electricity as of 8 PM. Crews are working around the clock under challenging conditions to restore service. High winds are anticipated to further complicate recovery efforts, extending the restoration timeline to multiple days. ComEd is actively bringing in additional crews from other states to expedite repairs. The company has prioritized restoring power to critical services and has made significant investments in grid upgrades that have improved reliability by over 80% since 2011, avoiding over 19 million outages.

Constellation (Nasdaq: CEG) will invest $800 million to enhance output at its Braidwood and Byron nuclear plants in Illinois, increasing capacity by approximately 135 megawatts. This enhancement will provide enough carbon-free energy to power 100,000 homes year-round, akin to removing 171,000 gas vehicles from the road. The projects, expected to boost output by 2026 fully by 2029, will create jobs for thousands and reflect the impact of recent supportive policies like the Inflation Reduction Act. Constellation aims for 100% carbon-free generation by 2040.

ComEd announces the return of its annual STEM program aimed at supporting young women in Illinois. The ComEd EV Rally is set for summer 2023, with applications open until June 1. This year, participation increases to 45 from 30, allowing participants to build and race electric-powered go-carts. Each participant will receive a $2,000 scholarship upon program completion. This initiative is part of ComEd's commitment to enhance representation of women in STEM fields and support clean energy technology.

Exelon (Nasdaq: EXC) joined advocates in Washington, D.C., stressing the importance of funding the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for vulnerable households. CEO Calvin Butler emphasized that LIHEAP serves as a lifeline for low-income customers, with Exelon connecting over 1 million eligible customers to more than $1 billion in energy assistance in the past two years. In 2022, the company helped nearly 470,000 customers access $589.2 million in aid, with 64% from LIHEAP. Exelon’s initiatives include advocacy for policy changes, job creation for local residents, and community outreach to enhance energy affordability.

ComEd has awarded over $350,000 in scholarships to 69 diverse students aspiring to pursue energy careers through its Future of Energy Scholars Program since its launch in 2022. The latest recipients include seven students receiving up to $10,000 each. Applications for the next round are open until March 31, 2023. The program aims to cultivate an inclusive workforce as Illinois transitions to a clean energy future, projected to create tens of thousands of jobs. ComEd is partnering with the National Energy Education Development Project to administer the scholarships.

Constellation Energy Corporation (Nasdaq: CEG) reported a GAAP net income of $34 million for Q4 2022, down from $42 million in Q4 2021, while the full year 2022 showed a net loss of $160 million. Adjusted EBITDA decreased to $605 million in Q4 2022 from $1,027 million in Q4 2021, totaling $2,667 million for the year, an increase from $2,185 million in 2021. The company introduced a 2023 Adjusted EBITDA guidance of $2.9 billion to $3.3 billion and announced a capital allocation strategy of $1.5 billion for growth and a $1 billion share repurchase, alongside doubling its annual dividend. The nuclear fleet operated at a capacity factor of 95.4% in Q4 2022.

ComEd introduces the Smart Assistance Manager (SAM) to support customers in northern Illinois facing economic hardships. This online tool offers various financial assistance programs, ensuring customers can maintain access to safe, reliable electricity. ComEd boasts an average monthly customer bill of $93, among the lowest in the U.S., approximately 20 percent lower than the average in major cities. SAM allows users to access tailored grants and payment options, enhancing customer service amid challenging economic conditions.