3 Reasons I’ll Never Sell Hydro One (TSX:H)

Hydro One Ltd. (TSX:H) is another undervalued utility that investors should snag in 2020 and prepare to hold onto for the long haul.

| More on:

Last week, I’d discussed three reasons why I’m hanging onto Fortis for the long haul. Today, I want to zero-in on another top Canadian utility: Hydro One (TSX:H). In this article, I’ll explore three reasons I’m never letting go of this stock.

Hydro One: The top utility in Ontario

Hydro One is the top utility in the most populous Canadian province. This alone makes it a desirable target for those who are seeking exposure to this sector. Indeed, the company has stepped up during these trying times to offer relief to its sprawling customer base in Ontario.

On August 7, Hydro One announced that it would extend its ban on residential electricity disconnections. This was done to ensure that no customer was disconnected during a time when utility services were most needed. Its Pandemic Relief Program has also remained in place. This allows customer to apply for financial relief and payment flexibility in a time that has seen Canadian jobless rates soar to historic levels.

Naturally, Hydro One also benefits from Ontario’s huge customer rate base. This was one of the reasons the stock was so desirable when it made its public listing in November 2015.

The company has been reinvigorated since 2018

Shares of Hydro One have climbed 12% in 2020 as of close on August 18. The stock is up 20% year over year. Hydro One started hot after its 2015 IPO, surging into the summer of 2016. However, it experienced a prolonged rut that extended into late 2018.

The recently elected Ontario premier, Doug Ford, fulfilled a campaign promise and ousted Hydro One’s CEO and the entire board of directors. At the time, no one really knew what to expect after this headline-grabbing maneuver. In August 2018, I’d suggested that Hydro One was still worth a look due to its stability and dividend.

Hydro One has defied expectations since the stunning outer of its leadership team. The stock managed to gain momentum after losing out on its proposed acquisition of the U.S.-based Avista. Things have continued to look up in the first six months of 2020.

In the second quarter of 2020, the company delivered adjusted earnings per share of $0.39 compared to $0.26 in the prior year. This was driven by historically hot summer weather and offset by higher COVID-19-related expenses. In the year-to-date period, Hydro One has posted revenues of $3.52 billion over $3.17 billion in the first six months of 2019. Net cash from operating activities has soared to $923 million — up from $415 million in the previous year.

Why Hydro One is a great option for income investors

Like its peers, many investors chase after Hydro One for its reliable dividend. In 2020, the company increased its quarterly dividend to $0.2536 per share. This represents a 3.6% yield. It has delivered dividend growth in every year since its public listing. Better yet, Hydro One stock offers great value right now. It last possessed a favourable price-to-earnings ratio of 9.3 and a price-to-book value of 1.6.

This article represents the opinion of the writer, who may disagree with the “official” recommendation position of a Motley Fool premium service or advisor. We’re Motley! Questioning an investing thesis — even one of our own — helps us all think critically about investing and make decisions that help us become smarter, happier, and richer, so we sometimes publish articles that may not be in line with recommendations, rankings or other content.

Fool contributor Ambrose O'Callaghan owns shares of FORTIS INC and HYDRO ONE LIMITED. The Motley Fool recommends FORTIS INC.

More on Dividend Stocks

TFSA (Tax-Free Savings Account) on wooden blocks and Canadian one hundred dollar bills.
Dividend Stocks

Where to Invest Your $7,000 TFSA Contribution

The TFSA is attractive for investors who want to generate tax-free passive income.

Read more »

The TFSA is a powerful savings vehicle for Canadians who are saving for retirement.
Dividend Stocks

TFSA Investors: 3 Dividend Stocks Worth Holding Forever

These TSX stocks have the potential to grow their dividends over the next decade, making them top investments for TFSA…

Read more »

Tractor spraying a field of wheat
Dividend Stocks

Is Nutrien Stock a Buy for its Dividend Yield?

Nutrien is down more than 50% form the 2022 highs. Is NTR stock now oversold?

Read more »

golden sunset in crude oil refinery with pipeline system
Dividend Stocks

Best Stock to Buy Right Now: Enbridge vs TC Energy?

Enbridge and TC Energy rebounded nicely over the past year. Are more gains on the way?

Read more »

Electricity transmission towers with orange glowing wires against night sky
Dividend Stocks

2 Utility Stocks That Are Smart Buys for Canadians in November

Are you looking for some of the smart buys to consider in November? These utility stocks offer growth and a…

Read more »

View of high rise corporate buildings in the financial district of Toronto, Canada
Dividend Stocks

Is Power Corporation of Canada Stock a Buy for its 5% Dividend Yield?

Is Power Corporation of Canada (TSX:POW) stock's 5% dividend yield worth it? Discover why this resilient stock could be a…

Read more »

hand stacks coins
Dividend Stocks

Here Are My Top 3 Dividend Stocks to Buy Now

These three dividend stocks are ideal for strengthening your portfolio and earning a stable passive income.

Read more »

man touches brain to show a good idea
Dividend Stocks

3 No-Brainer REIT Stocks to Buy Right Now for Less Than $200

REITs have long been touted as some of the best dividend stocks out there if you want recurring, strong income.…

Read more »