CenterPoint Energy Braces for Hurricane Rafael: Preparedness and Response

As Hurricane Rafael intensifies into a Category 3 storm, CenterPoint Energy (CNP) remains vigilant and ready to respond to potential impacts across its multi-state Gulf Coast service area. The company, which operates as the only investor-owned electric and gas utility based in Texas, is committed to ensuring the safety and reliability of its services during severe weather events.

CenterPoint Energy's response to Hurricane Rafael builds on its experiences from previous storms, such as Hurricane Beryl, which caused significant outages and damage in 2024. The company has taken several proactive measures to prepare for the storm, including:

1. **Enhanced Staffing and Resource Mobilization:** CenterPoint has mobilized resources, including over 13,000 mutual assistance personnel, to support potential landfall impacts in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas. This significant increase in workforce demonstrates the company's commitment to addressing the storm's potential severity.
2. **Pre-landfall Emergency Preparedness Protocols:** The company is conducting pre-landfall emergency preparedness protocols, indicating a more proactive approach to storm response compared to previous events.
3. **Temporary Suspension of Natural Gas Disconnections:** CenterPoint has temporarily suspended natural gas disconnections in Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi to focus resources on preparation efforts. This action shows the company's prioritization of customer safety and support during the storm's approach.
4. **Safety Information and Communication:** CenterPoint is actively sharing safety information with customers across its multi-state Gulf Coast service area, highlighting the importance of staying informed and prepared during the storm's progression.

CenterPoint Energy's emergency response plan and preparedness measures align with industry best practices and regulatory requirements. The company's proactive approach to storm monitoring, resource mobilization, and communication with customers ensures that it is well-equipped to handle potential storm impacts and restore power to customers as quickly and safely as possible.

In terms of financial performance, CenterPoint Energy recently reported Q3 2024 results, reiterating its 2024 full-year guidance and initiating 2025 full-year guidance. The company reported Q3 2024 earnings per diluted share of $0.30 on a GAAP basis and $0.31 earnings per diluted share on a non-GAAP basis. CenterPoint reiterated its 2024 non-GAAP EPS guidance range of $1.61-$1.63 per diluted share, representing 8% growth over full-year 2023 non-GAAP EPS at the midpoint. The company also initiated 2025 non-GAAP guidance range of $1.74-$1.76 per diluted share, which at the midpoint represents 8% growth from the 2024 midpoint and further maintains non-GAAP EPS growth target through 2030 of the mid-to-high end of 6%-8% annually.



CenterPoint Energy's stock price has been relatively stable in recent months, with a current price of $29.37 per share. The company's strong financial performance and commitment to storm preparedness and response are expected to maintain investor confidence despite the potential impacts of Hurricane Rafael.



In conclusion, CenterPoint Energy's proactive approach to storm preparedness and response, as well as its strong financial performance, position the company well to navigate the challenges posed by Hurricane Rafael. By learning from past storm responses and implementing improvements, CenterPoint Energy is better equipped to face the challenges posed by Hurricane Rafael and other severe weather events in the future.