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NextEra Energy Ranks First on Fortune's Admired Companies List

NextEra Energy, Inc. has achieved an extraordinary feat by being named the number one company in the electric and gas utilities sector on Fortune's prestigious list of "World's Most Admired Companies" for the 17th time in 19 years. This distinguished recognition underscores the company's unwavering commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and community engagement.

Leading the Charge in Energy Production

In a year where NextEra Energy generated the highest amount of electricity and invested more in energy infrastructure than any other competitor, its position atop the rankings is well deserved. John Ketchum, the chairman, president, and CEO of NextEra Energy, attributed this achievement to the hard work and creativity of the company's dedicated workforce. With over 16,000 employees, NextEra has successfully navigated a rapidly evolving energy landscape while remaining steadfast in its mission to meet the growing demands for cleaner and more reliable energy sources.

NextEra Energy has pioneered numerous innovations in the energy sector, investing more than $150 billion in America's energy infrastructure over the past decade alone. This broad investment encompasses everything from enhancing existing nuclear power facilities to developing substantial renewable energy generation and emerging technologies like energy storage solutions.

Economic Contributions and Job Creation

Beyond its accomplishments in energy production, NextEra also plays a vital role in economic development across the United States, particularly in rural areas. The firm generates immense tax revenues and has made significant contributions to local economies. It has paid nearly $8 billion annually in property taxes and over $1.6 billion in annual land payments, further demonstrating its commitment to the communities it serves. By operating in 49 states and continuously expanding, NextEra Energy remains a formidable force in job creation and economic growth.

Expansion of Energy Capacity and Innovation

NextEra Energy distinguishes itself not only by its size but also by the diversity of its energy generation portfolio. As the owner of the largest natural gas fleet in the U.S. and a major nuclear energy provider, the company is responsible for generating more renewable energy from wind and solar sources than any other entity nationwide. These efforts have helped maintain low electricity prices for consumers while solidifying NextEra's reputation as a leader in energy innovation.

Last year alone, NextEra Energy initiated roughly 8.7 gigawatts (GW) of renewable and storage projects, with plans to invest around $120 billion in the next four years. This focus on scaling its operations aligns with its strategy to ensure affordable and reliable power for American households and businesses.

Operational Excellence and Community Support

NextEra’s success in driving operational excellence is a testament to its innovative approaches. It operates the largest electric utility in the U.S., boasting customer bills that are over 30% lower than the national average. Moreover, innovations in smart grid technology have averted millions of outages, ensuring reliability and safety for millions of customers.

In addition to its primary business objectives, the company remains deeply committed to corporate social responsibility. Its strategic focus on the future is exemplified by cooperative initiatives, like the recent agreement with GE Vernova to synergize renewable energy with gas generation projects. This partnership emphasizes NextEra's dedication to enhancing integrated power solutions.

Furthermore, the recommissioning of Iowa's only nuclear power plant, the Duane Arnold Energy Center, paves the way for greater capacity and energy independence, expected to commence operations by 2028.

In summary, NextEra Energy stands as a paragon of innovation and community engagement in the energy sector. Its cutting-edge strategies, commitment to sustainability, and unparalleled dedication to its workforce and customers make it a deserving recipient of Fortune's accolade. As it continues to shape the future of energy in America, NextEra Energy reaffirms its role as a leader committed to powering the nation responsibly and sustainably.