Welcome to our dedicated page for Firstenergy news (Ticker: FE), a resource for investors and traders seeking the latest updates and insights on Firstenergy stock.
Overview of FirstEnergy Corp
FirstEnergy Corp (NYSE: FE) is a diversified, investor-owned electric utility that plays a critical role in the transmission, distribution, and generation of electricity across the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States. As one of the nation’s largest electric systems, FirstEnergy serves millions of residential, commercial, and industrial customers by managing an extensive network of power lines and substations. The company embodies core values of integrity, safety, and operational excellence, ensuring reliable service and meticulous attention to the day-to-day functioning of its widespread electric grid.
Business Model and Core Operations
At its core, FirstEnergy operates through a highly integrated business model that includes:
- Electric Distribution: The company’s electric distribution companies deliver power directly to over six million customers across states such as Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, West Virginia, Maryland, and New York. This segment emphasizes maintaining service reliability through proactive maintenance, grid resilience improvements, and customer-focused initiatives.
- Transmission Operations: FirstEnergy’s transmission network spans approximately 24,000 miles of high-voltage lines, connecting diverse regions and providing the backbone necessary for grid-wide electricity distribution and network resiliency. These lines and associated substations ensure that energy generated from various sources is efficiently transported to local markets for end use.
- Electric Generation: While generation is an integral component of the company’s operations, FirstEnergy focuses on ensuring that the power produced complements its distribution and transmission capabilities to reliably meet customer demand.
This multifaceted approach enables FirstEnergy to effectively manage different aspects of the electrical supply chain and to deliver a robust, dependable network that forms the lifeline of the regions it serves. The company generates revenue primarily through regulated rate structures and capital investment plans designed to maintain and improve the grid infrastructure over extended periods.
Infrastructure and Investment in Grid Modernization
Investing in grid modernization is a strategic pillar of FirstEnergy’s operations. Through initiatives such as the comprehensive grid evolution programs, the company focuses on the following:
- Upgrading Transmission and Distribution Assets: Regularly enhancing the infrastructure by integrating advanced technologies to reduce outages and improve system responsiveness. Recent projects include new operations service centers and upgrades to power substations in high-demand areas.
- Enhancing Electric Reliability: Extensive efforts are made in remote-controlled substation technologies, automated system reclosers, and the deployment of new transmission lines to ensure rapid restoration of service during outages caused by harsh weather conditions or other disruptions.
- Capital Investment Programs: FirstEnergy has historically dedicated significant investments towards sustaining its rate base and infrastructure improvements which directly impact its capacity to deliver reliable power. These investments are carefully planned and executed in compliance with regulatory frameworks, assuring that enhancements remain within a balanced cost structure.
These initiatives not only modernize the utility infrastructure but also build a future-proof system capable of handling increasing demand and evolving energy consumption patterns.
Market Position and Competitive Landscape
Within the large-scale utility landscape, FirstEnergy maintains a position rooted in regulated operations and strategic infrastructure investments. As an investor-owned entity, it balances public accountability with strong operational performance. Its competitive advantages include:
- Diverse Operational Footprint: Serving multiple states with varying regulatory environments, the company has honed its operational capabilities to efficiently navigate regional markets.
- Integrated Service Model: Combining distribution, transmission, and generation in a unified strategy ensures that service reliability is maintained through system-wide coordination and technological integration.
- Commitment to Safety and Reliability: Continuous investments in grid modernization, emergency response capabilities, and infrastructure upgrades position the company as a dependable service provider, mitigating challenges associated with severe weather and other disruptions.
These attributes contribute to FirstEnergy’s strong market standing, reinforcing its reputation as a utility that values resilience and proactive operational management.
Operational Excellence and Commitment to Transparency
FirstEnergy is committed to maintaining high standards of operational excellence and regulatory compliance. Its emphasis on integrity and transparent reporting ensures that all stakeholders, from regulators to customers, understand the operational imperatives driving the company. Key elements of its strategy include:
- Robust Regulatory Framework: Operating in a heavily regulated industry, FirstEnergy adheres to stringent criteria set by various state and federal agencies, ensuring that infrastructure projects and pricing strategies are fair and sustainable.
- Emphasis on Safety and Reliability: The company prioritizes customer safety and community impact through rigorous system checks, modernized equipment, and ongoing training programs for its workforce.
- Technological Integration: Implementing remote-controlled devices, smart grid technologies, and advanced monitoring tools, FirstEnergy continuously works to minimize service interruptions and enhance customer service reliability.
This operational rigor not only ensures smooth daily functioning but also builds the trust and confidence of both customers and regulatory bodies, underscoring the company's commitment to deliver essential services without undue risk.
Comprehensive Customer Service and Community Orientation
Customer service is a central element of FirstEnergy's business ethos. The company operates with a strong focus on improving local communities and providing clear, consistent communication regarding service issues and outage management. By integrating proactive maintenance protocols and a customer-centric approach, FirstEnergy demonstrates its commitment to:
- Enhancing Service Reliability: Through systematic upgrades and rapid response strategies, the company limits the frequency and duration of outages, ensuring a stable power supply even during extreme weather conditions.
- Community Engagement: Efforts to foster local partnerships and transparent communication provide customers with detailed information and guidance during service interruptions, reinforcing community trust and operational accountability.
- Long-Term Infrastructure Planning: Carefully crafted plans for grid modernization and safety enhancements are rolled out with community feedback in mind, ensuring that service improvements are both relevant and sustainable over time.
These customer-focused strategies ensure that FirstEnergy remains responsive to the evolving needs of its diverse clientele while maintaining a robust framework for future operational excellence.
Expertise, Experience, and Thought Leadership
FirstEnergy’s extensive industry experience is reflected in its adept handling of complex regulatory challenges and dynamic market conditions. The company leverages:
- Specialized Operational Knowledge: Decades of experience in managing large-scale electric distribution systems and high-voltage transmission networks have equipped the company with the expertise required to optimize grid performance and uphold safety standards consistently.
- Innovative Deployment of Technology: By incorporating advanced digital tools and automated systems, FirstEnergy demonstrates thought leadership in grid modernization, ensuring that its operational strategies are both current and forward-thinking within the constraints of regulated utility operations.
- Strategic Investment Planning: The company’s ongoing commitment to infrastructure improvement is supported by strategic capital investments, which are meticulously planned to balance cost efficiency with operational reliability.
This blend of technical expertise, strategic vision, and operational experience underpins FirstEnergy’s reputation as a trustworthy, knowledgeable, and reliable electric utility provider in one of the nation's most competitive sectors.
Conclusion
In summary, FirstEnergy Corp stands as a multifaceted electric utility that combines robust regulated operations with deep-seated industry expertise to deliver reliable power across a wide geographical area. With a focus on modernizing the grid, enhancing customer service, and maintaining rigorous safety standards, the company remains a critical element of the regional energy infrastructure. Its commitment to transparency, operational excellence, and community well-being positions it as a key player in ensuring that millions of customers continue to receive the dependable, uninterrupted electric service they require.
The company maintains its neutrality while embracing innovation and adhering to rigorous regulatory standards, ensuring that its approach is as methodical as it is dependable. Through its dual focus on technological excellence and comprehensive infrastructure management, FirstEnergy seamlessly integrates its various business segments to provide an enduring foundation for electrical reliability and service quality.
CRA International (NASDAQ: CRAI) has announced it will manage an RFP auction process for FirstEnergy Corp.'s (NYSE: FE) Ohio subsidiaries to secure full requirements service for their Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) customers.
The auction covers Ohio Edison, The Illuminating Company, and Toledo Edison. The winning supplier will serve all PIPP load for a 12-month delivery period from June 2025 through May 2026.
Key dates include:
- Information Session for bidders: March 5, 2025
- PIPP Supplier Applications acceptance: March 6-19, 2025
- Registered Bidders submission: March 31, 2025
Interested parties can find detailed information and webinar instructions at firstenergypipprfp.com.
FirstEnergy Transmission (FET) has secured multiple transmission projects from PJM Interconnection, representing approximately $1.25 billion in customer-focused investments, plus an additional $46 million for other FirstEnergy subsidiaries.
The key projects include:
- Through Valley Link joint venture: Building 260 miles of 765-kV transmission line and two substations between West Virginia and Maryland, plus 155 miles of transmission line in Virginia ($1 billion investment)
- In Ohio: $217 million investment rebuilding 59 miles of 138-kV transmission lines
- In Pennsylvania: $33 million investment rebuilding two 115-kV substations
These projects, approved by PJM's Board of Managers on February 26, aim to strengthen the electric grid, enhance reliability, and support regional economic growth across FirstEnergy's service territory.
PJM Interconnection has selected multiple electric transmission projects to be jointly developed by Dominion Energy (D), American Electric Power, and FirstEnergy through their newly formed Valley Link Transmission Company joint venture. The projects will span across Virginia, West Virginia, and Maryland.
The key developments include:
- A 260-mile 765-kilovolt transmission line with two substations between Putnam County, WV and Frederick County, MD
- A 155-mile 765-kV transmission line with a substation between Campbell County, VA and Fauquier County, VA
- A new substation in Caroline County, VA
These infrastructure investments aim to address the region's growing power demands, enhance grid reliability, and support economic development. The projects are in early development stages, with detailed plans for permitting, regulatory approvals, and public participation expected in the coming months.
PJM Interconnection has selected multiple electric transmission projects to be jointly developed by FirstEnergy Transmission, Dominion Energy, and American Electric Power through its Transource Energy affiliate. The companies will collaborate through the newly formed Valley Link Transmission Company joint venture.
The selected projects include:
- A 260-mile 765-kilovolt transmission line and two substations between Putnam County, WV, and Frederick County, MD
- A 155-mile 765-kV transmission line and substation between Campbell County, VA, and Fauquier County, VA
- A new substation in Caroline County, VA
The projects, proposed through PJM's Regional Transmission Expansion Plan Open Window process in September 2024, aim to address reliability needs, support economic development, and meet growing power demands across Virginia, West Virginia, and Maryland. The development is in early stages, with detailed plans for permitting, regulatory approvals, and public participation expected in the coming months.
FirstEnergy (NYSE: FE) reported full year 2024 GAAP earnings of $1.70 per share and Operating earnings of $2.63 per share, with revenue of $13.5 billion. Core earnings reached $2.37 per share, an 8% increase from 2023.
The company invested $4.5 billion in 2024 through its Energize365 program, a 20% increase over 2023. FirstEnergy expanded its capital investment program to $28 billion through 2029, projecting 9% rate base growth. The company introduced 2025 Core earnings guidance of $2.40-$2.60 per share and targets 6-8% compound annual Core earnings growth.
Fourth quarter 2024 results showed GAAP earnings of $0.45 per share on revenue of $3.2 billion, with Operating earnings at $0.67 per share. Distribution deliveries remained stable year-over-year, though heating degree days were 10% below normal. The company's transmission segment saw 10% rate base growth, partially offset by the dilution from the 30% interest sale of FirstEnergy Transmission to Brookfield in March 2024.
Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L), a FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE) subsidiary, is implementing electric grid upgrades in Mercer County to enhance service reliability for nearly 1,000 customers in Hopewell Township. The project includes upgrading 4 miles of infrastructure with stronger poles and wires, installing 0.25 miles of underground wires, and implementing protective devices and TripSaver technology.
The work is part of JCP&L's Supplemental High Priority Circuit Program, which includes a $95 million first phase to be completed in three years, with a second phase targeted for completion by 2028. This initiative is part of FirstEnergy's broader Energize365 program, which plans to invest $26 billion between 2024-2028 across six states to create a smarter, more secure power grid.
FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE) has announced it will release its fourth quarter and full year 2024 financial results after market close on Wednesday, February 26. The company will host a conference call with financial analysts on Thursday, February 27, at 8 a.m. EST, including a Q&A session.
Investors and interested parties can access the live webcast and presentation slides through FirstEnergy's Investor Information website. The materials will remain available for replay for up to one year. The company serves over 6 million customers across six states through its electric distribution companies and operates approximately 24,000 miles of transmission lines connecting the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions.
FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE) has completed an electric system upgrade in eastern Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, through its subsidiary West Penn Power. The project involved rebuilding a 2-mile section of a 12-kilovolt distribution line along Unity Street-Unity Cemetery Road, benefiting over 500 customers in Unity Township.
The upgrade includes installation of larger diameter wire for increased electricity capacity, replacement of 15 utility poles, 70 crossarms, 200 aging insulators, and various hardware. This enhancement is part of the company's Long Term Infrastructure Improvement Plan (LTIIP) and Energize365 program, which plans to invest $26 billion between 2024 and 2028 across six states for grid modernization.
The improvements will help prevent service disruptions, support voltage levels, and accommodate growth in the rural area. The upgraded line will also serve as a backup power source for customers in the Wimmerton housing plan during maintenance or service issues.
FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE) has received two prestigious awards from the Edison Electric Institute (EEI) for its exceptional storm response efforts in 2024. The company earned an Emergency Recovery Award for restoring power to hundreds of thousands of customers after a historic August 2024 weather event in northeast Ohio, and an Emergency Assistance Award for supporting restoration efforts following Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
The August 6 storm, the most severe since 1993, affected over 627,700 customers across multiple states, with 497,500 in Ohio alone. FirstEnergy crews worked more than 384,000 man-hours, replacing nearly 500 poles, 231 transformers, and 75 miles of wire, achieving 94% power restoration by August 11. Additionally, the company deployed approximately 645 line workers and 300 trucks for hurricane restoration efforts in the Carolinas, Florida, Georgia, and Virginia, logging over 150,000 man-hours.
FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE) has announced two key appointments to strengthen its financial and regulatory leadership. Arsalan Azarsa will serve as Vice President, Finance and Regulatory for West Virginia and Maryland starting February 10, while Kevin Keller will take the same role for Ohio beginning February 24.
These appointments align with FirstEnergy's new business structure, which aims to bring decision-making and service closer to customers. Both executives will be responsible for developing financial strategies, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning, while overseeing relationships with state commissions.
Azarsa joins from Vicinity Energy with over three decades of experience at Pepco Holdings. Keller comes from American Electric Power (AEP), where he served as Director of Financial Forecasting. Both executives bring extensive utility industry experience and are Certified Public Accountants.