2 Outstanding Energy Stocks Worth Buying Today and Keeping for the Long Haul

The Essential Role of Energy in Economic Growth

Energy serves as the foundation for economic progress, fueling industries, homes, and the data infrastructure behind emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. Insights from the Bank of America Institute suggest that energy consumption is on track to accelerate at a pace five times greater in the next ten years compared to the previous decade.

With this anticipated surge in energy needs, here are two energy sector stocks worth considering for your portfolio today.

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NextEra Energy: Reliable Performance with Growth Prospects

NextEra Energy (NYSE: NEE) stands as one of the nation’s leading electric utility and renewable energy providers. The company’s operations are divided between Florida Power & Light (FPL) and NextEra Energy Resources.

FPL, the largest regulated utility in the country, delivers consistent earnings for NextEra. Thanks to its regulated status, FPL’s pricing structure ensures coverage of operational costs and a fair return on investment. The Florida Public Service Commission has approved a four-year rate plan (from January 2026 to December 2029), allowing FPL a midpoint return on equity of 10.95%. This agreement offers clarity and stability for future profits.

NextEra Energy Resources, the world’s largest renewable energy company, specializes in building and managing assets like wind, solar, nuclear, natural gas, and battery storage facilities. With a net generating capacity of roughly 37,505 megawatts, this segment positions NextEra for future expansion through long-term contracts.

For those seeking steady, long-term returns, NextEra Energy is a compelling option. The company not only provides growth potential but also pays a dividend yield of 2.74%. Impressively, NextEra has raised its annual dividend for 31 years in a row.

Combining the dependability of its utility business with the growth opportunities in renewables—especially as technology companies drive up power demand—NextEra Energy is well-positioned as a smart, long-term investment.

Cheniere Energy: Capitalizing on the LNG Boom

Cheniere Energy (NYSE: LNG) leads the U.S. in producing liquefied natural gas (LNG), a form of natural gas cooled for efficient global transport. LNG is considered a transitional fuel, emitting up to half as much carbon dioxide as coal, making it an attractive option as the world shifts toward cleaner energy.

Another advantage of LNG is the flexibility of gas-fired power plants, which can quickly adjust output to balance the variable supply from renewables like wind and solar.

Cheniere’s business model is built on long-term contracts, with about 90% of its capacity secured through take-or-pay agreements. These contracts require customers to pay a fixed fee per MMBtu of LNG, with a portion adjusted annually for inflation, ensuring reliable revenue even if deliveries are canceled or postponed.

Functioning as a gateway for U.S. natural gas exports, Cheniere’s infrastructure connects all five major U.S. gas basins to international markets. Over the past three years, two-thirds of its shipments have supplied Europe, helping to replace Russian gas imports.

For investors eager to benefit from America’s expanding LNG industry, Cheniere Energy stands out as a strong long-term holding.

Is Now the Time to Invest in NextEra Energy?

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Bank of America is a promotional partner of Motley Fool Money. Courtney Carlsen does not own shares in any of the companies mentioned. The Motley Fool holds positions in and recommends both Cheniere Energy and NextEra Energy. For more information, see our disclosure policy.

2 Brilliant Energy Stocks to Buy Now and Hold for the Long Term was first published by The Motley Fool.