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Pennon Group PLC (GB:PNN)
LSE:PNN

Pennon Group plc (PNN) AI Stock Analysis

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GB:PNN

Pennon Group plc

(LSE:PNN)

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Neutral 67 (OpenAI - 4o)
Rating:67Neutral
Price Target:
586.00p
▲(13.35% Upside)
Pennon Group's overall stock score reflects a mix of strengths and challenges. The most significant factor is the company's financial performance, which shows revenue growth but also highlights profitability and leverage concerns. Technical analysis indicates positive momentum, while the high P/E ratio suggests potential overvaluation. The earnings call and corporate events provide optimism with strong operational achievements and strategic initiatives.
Positive Factors
Revenue Growth
The significant revenue growth driven by higher tariffs and increased customer consumption indicates strong market demand and effective pricing strategy, supporting long-term financial stability.
Operational Successes
Operational improvements in pollution reduction enhance environmental compliance and sustainability, strengthening the company's reputation and operational efficiency.
Environmental Gains and Innovation
Commitment to environmental improvements and innovation in renewable energy projects positions the company as a leader in sustainable practices, aligning with long-term regulatory and market trends.
Negative Factors
Profitability Challenges
Declining net income and negative profit margins indicate pressure on profitability, which may hinder the company's ability to reinvest and grow sustainably over the long term.
Rising Debt Levels
Increased leverage poses financial stability risks, potentially limiting financial flexibility and increasing vulnerability to economic downturns or interest rate hikes.
Cash Flow Challenges
Negative free cash flow and declining operating cash flow highlight liquidity issues, which could impact the company's ability to fund operations and capital expenditures without additional financing.

Pennon Group plc (PNN) vs. iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF (EWC)

Pennon Group plc Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionPennon Group Plc provides clean water and wastewater services in the United Kingdom. It provides water and wastewater services for customers in Cornwall, Devon, and parts of Dorset and Somerset; water-only services in the areas of Dorset, Hampshire, and Wiltshire; and water and wastewater retail services to non-household customers in Great Britain. The company also offers regulated water to approximately 1.2 million customers in the Bristol region. It serves approximately 50 million household and non-household customers. The company was incorporated in 1989 and is based in Exeter, the United Kingdom.
How the Company Makes MoneyPennon Group generates revenue primarily through its regulated water and wastewater services, which involve charging customers for the provision and treatment of water and the disposal of wastewater. This revenue is essentially driven by customer billing based on usage and is regulated by the UK's water regulator, Ofwat, which sets price limits that the company can charge. Additionally, the group earns income from commercial services offered through Pennon Water Services, which includes consultancy and efficiency optimization for businesses looking to manage their water use more effectively. Significant partnerships with local authorities and businesses enhance its operational capacity and revenue potential, while ongoing investments in infrastructure and sustainability initiatives aim to reduce costs and improve service delivery, contributing positively to overall earnings.

Pennon Group plc Earnings Call Summary

Earnings Call Date:Nov 27, 2025
(Q2-2026)
|
% Change Since: |
Next Earnings Date:May 28, 2026
Earnings Call Sentiment Positive
The earnings call reflects a strong financial and operational performance with significant revenue growth and successful execution of strategic priorities. However, the company faces challenges with network failures and net ODI penalties in the water business. The overall sentiment leans towards optimism due to the positive financial results and operational successes.
Q2-2026 Updates
Positive Updates
Strong Financial Performance
The company reported a strong return to profitability, with operating profit more than doubling and profit before tax moving from a loss to GBP 65.9 million. Adjusted earnings per share increased to 14p from a prior year loss of 5.5p.
Significant Revenue Growth
Revenue increased by 25% year-on-year to GBP 658 million, driven by higher tariffs and increased customer consumption.
Operational Successes
Notable operational achievements include a step change in wastewater performance, a 50% reduction in Category 1-3 pollutions, and storm overflow spills reduced by 45%.
Robust Funding Position
The company raised GBP 500 million in new debt, maintaining a strong balance sheet with gearing at 60%.
Environmental Gains and Innovation
Continued focus on environmental improvements with a 75% reduction in repeat pollutions and investments in biodiversity gains and renewable energy projects.
Negative Updates
Challenges with Increased Network Failures
Changing weather fronts have increased the number of network failures, although customer impacts have been mitigated on 70% of these.
Net ODI Penalty for Water Business
Despite strong performance in wastewater, the company faces a net penalty for ODIs in the water business due to a few incidents.
Company Guidance
In the call, Pennon Group provided extensive guidance on its performance for fiscal year 2025-2026. The company reported a strong return to profitability, with both underlying and statutory operating profit more than doubling year-on-year, resulting in a profit before tax of GBP 65.9 million. The adjusted earnings per share increased to 14p, covering the interim dividend of 9.26p per share, which reflects a 4.1% increase in line with CPIH. The company's revenues increased by 25% to GBP 658 million, driven by higher tariffs and increased customer consumption, while costs in the Water Group rose by 6%. Despite inflationary pressures, Pennon maintained a strong balance sheet with gearing at 60% and raised GBP 500 million in new debt during the first half of the year. The company continues to focus on delivering its K8 commitments, with GBP 305 million of CapEx already invested in the first half. Pennon is on track to deliver a 7% return on regulated equity, supported by efficient financing and operational improvements. Additionally, the company is targeting net neutral for wastewater ODIs and has achieved a 50% reduction in pollution incidents year-to-date.

Pennon Group plc Financial Statement Overview

Summary
Pennon Group is experiencing revenue growth, but profitability challenges are evident with declining net income and margins. The balance sheet shows increasing leverage, which could impact financial stability. Cash flow concerns arise from negative free cash flow, although operating cash flow generation is a strength. The company needs to address profitability and leverage for improved financial health.
Income Statement
67
Positive
The company has shown a positive revenue growth trend, with a notable increase in total revenue from £624.1 million in 2021 to £1.048 billion in 2025. However, the net income has significantly declined, leading to a negative net profit margin in recent years. Gross profit margin remains strong, but declining EBIT and EBITDA margins indicate pressure on operational efficiency.
Balance Sheet
55
Neutral
The debt-to-equity ratio has increased over the years, reflecting higher leverage, which could pose risks if not managed properly. The return on equity has suffered due to net losses, and while the equity ratio remains stable, the increasing liabilities are a concern.
Cash Flow
60
Neutral
Operating cash flow has declined, and free cash flow is negative, indicating cash flow challenges. The company's increased capital expenditures are affecting free cash flow. However, the ability to generate operating cash flow relative to net income is a positive aspect.
BreakdownTTMDec 2025Dec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021
Income Statement
Total Revenue917.90M1.05B906.80M797.20M792.30M624.10M
Gross Profit702.10M995.90M856.00M506.70M532.30M411.60M
EBITDA337.30M302.90M319.90M261.00M368.60M310.50M
Net Income43.40M-57.90M-9.50M100.00K15.40M79.50M
Balance Sheet
Total Assets7.38B7.05B6.23B5.19B5.34B6.42B
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments489.00M417.90M145.40M165.40M519.00M2.92B
Total Debt4.87B4.54B3.97B3.13B3.20B2.85B
Total Liabilities6.02B5.60B5.07B4.06B4.06B3.44B
Stockholders Equity1.36B1.45B1.16B1.12B1.27B2.98B
Cash Flow
Free Cash Flow-258.55M-575.10M-450.00M-173.70M25.90M15.90M
Operating Cash Flow181.95M93.50M148.90M157.50M254.90M206.20M
Investing Cash Flow-596.20M-676.40M-658.00M-330.50M-639.60M3.44B
Financing Cash Flow764.50M866.80M510.80M-180.60M-2.02B-1.43B

Pennon Group plc Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Positive
Last Price517.00
Price Trends
50DMA
514.84
Positive
100DMA
495.39
Positive
200DMA
476.91
Positive
Market Momentum
MACD
5.36
Positive
RSI
48.09
Neutral
STOCH
7.96
Positive
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For GB:PNN, the sentiment is Positive. The current price of 517 is below the 20-day moving average (MA) of 523.27, above the 50-day MA of 514.84, and above the 200-day MA of 476.91, indicating a neutral trend. The MACD of 5.36 indicates Positive momentum. The RSI at 48.09 is Neutral, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 7.96 is Positive, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Positive sentiment for GB:PNN.

Pennon Group plc Peers Comparison

Overall Rating
UnderperformOutperform
Sector (66)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
76
Outperform
£56.78B18.567.87%4.23%-9.52%35.74%
74
Outperform
£20.81B17.459.92%3.06%1.78%-50.72%
72
Outperform
£8.19B30.9220.43%4.41%15.76%254.82%
71
Outperform
£8.34B36.1717.41%4.58%10.68%35.18%
67
Neutral
£2.41B-36.042.50%6.60%19.50%
66
Neutral
£8.21B-35.94-5.95%2.91%-4.82%-123.58%
66
Neutral
$17.65B18.105.60%3.62%6.62%11.55%
* Utilities Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
GB:PNN
Pennon Group plc
517.00
56.97
12.38%
GB:CNA
Centrica
166.10
38.80
30.48%
GB:SVT
Severn Trent
2,699.00
205.82
8.26%
GB:SSE
SSE
2,108.00
514.05
32.25%
GB:UU
United Utilities
1,176.50
126.44
12.04%
GB:NG
National Grid
1,118.50
214.29
23.70%

Pennon Group plc Corporate Events

Private Placements and FinancingBusiness Operations and Strategy
Pennon Group Updates Euro Medium Term Note Programme
Neutral
Dec 1, 2025

Pennon Group plc has announced the publication of a Supplementary Prospectus related to its GBP 2.5 billion Euro Medium Term Note Programme. This update is crucial for stakeholders as it reflects the company’s ongoing financial strategies and commitments, potentially impacting its market positioning and investor relations.

Regulatory Filings and Compliance
Pennon Group Announces Total Voting Rights and Capital Structure
Neutral
Dec 1, 2025

Pennon Group plc has announced its total voting rights and capital structure as of November 30, 2025. The company has an issued share capital of 471,980,296 ordinary shares, with 5,628 shares held in treasury, resulting in a total of 471,974,668 voting rights. This information is crucial for shareholders to determine their notification obligations under the FCA’s Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules.

Business Operations and StrategyFinancial Disclosures
Pennon Group Reports Strong Return to Profitability and Environmental Progress
Positive
Nov 27, 2025

Pennon Group plc reported a strong return to profitability for the first half of 2025/26, with significant improvements in financial performance driven by disciplined cost control and strategic investments. The company has halved pollution incidents and reduced storm overflow spills, reflecting its commitment to environmental sustainability. With a robust balance sheet, Pennon is well-positioned to execute its largest-ever capital program, focusing on water availability, pollution control, and customer support. The company continues to engage with regulatory reforms and aims for a 7% return on regulated equity, supported by efficient financing and operational efficiencies.

Business Operations and Strategy
Pennon Group Executives Increase Stake in Company
Positive
Nov 21, 2025

Pennon Group plc announced that its Group Chief Executive Officer, Susan Jane Davy, and Group Chief Financial Officer, Laura Flowerdew, have both made purchases of ordinary shares as part of the company’s Share Incentive Plan. These transactions, conducted on the London Stock Exchange, reflect the executives’ commitment to aligning their interests with those of the shareholders and demonstrate confidence in the company’s future performance.

Regulatory Filings and Compliance
Pennon Group Announces Total Voting Rights and Capital Structure
Neutral
Nov 3, 2025

Pennon Group plc announced its total voting rights and capital structure as of 31 October 2025, with an issued share capital consisting of 471,980,296 ordinary shares and 5,628 shares held in treasury. This information is crucial for shareholders to determine their notification requirements under the FCA’s Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules.

Other
Pennon Group Executives Increase Stake in Company through Share Incentive Plan
Positive
Oct 22, 2025

Pennon Group plc announced that its Group Chief Executive Officer, Susan Jane Davy, and Group Chief Financial Officer, Laura Flowerdew, have both purchased shares as part of a Share Incentive Plan. This transaction, conducted on the London Stock Exchange, reflects the executives’ commitment to aligning their interests with those of the shareholders, potentially strengthening stakeholder confidence in the company’s leadership.

Executive/Board ChangesBusiness Operations and Strategy
Pennon Group Appoints Sir Andrew Haines as Non-Executive Director
Positive
Oct 7, 2025

Pennon Group Plc has announced the appointment of Sir Andrew Haines as a Non-Executive Director, effective from November 1, 2025. Sir Andrew brings a wealth of experience from the UK’s transport and regulatory sectors, having previously served as Chief Executive of Network Rail. His leadership in complex, customer-focused organizations and understanding of regulated industries is expected to be invaluable as Pennon embarks on its largest investment program aimed at enhancing services for customers and communities.

Executive/Board ChangesBusiness Operations and Strategy
Pennon Group Announces Executive Share Awards Under Long-Term Incentive Plan
Neutral
Oct 3, 2025

Pennon Group plc announced a conditional award of shares to its CEO, Susan Jane Davy, and CFO, Laura Flowerdew, under the company’s 2025 Long-Term Incentive Plan. The awards, which vest after three years based on performance criteria, reflect the company’s commitment to aligning executive compensation with long-term performance goals, potentially impacting its operational focus and stakeholder interests.

Executive/Board ChangesBusiness Operations and Strategy
Pennon Group Appoints Keith Haslett as New CEO
Positive
Oct 2, 2025

Pennon Group plc has announced the appointment of Keith Haslett as the new Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Susan Davy. Haslett, who brings extensive experience from Affinity Water and other major water companies, is expected to join in 2026 and aims to drive customer service improvements and ambitious investment programs. This leadership change is anticipated to bolster Pennon’s operational excellence and shareholder value, continuing the growth trajectory established under Davy’s leadership.

Regulatory Filings and Compliance
Pennon Group Updates Share Capital and Voting Rights
Neutral
Oct 1, 2025

Pennon Group plc announced its total voting rights and capital structure as of September 30, 2025, with an issued share capital of 471,979,034 ordinary shares, out of which 5,628 shares are held in treasury. This update is crucial for shareholders to determine their notification requirements under the FCA’s Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules.

Business Operations and StrategyFinancial Disclosures
Pennon Group Reports Strong Start to Fiscal Year with Focus on Sustainability and Profitability
Positive
Sep 26, 2025

Pennon Group PLC has reported a robust start to the fiscal year 2025/26, with strong profitability despite challenges posed by a hot summer. The company has made significant progress in reducing pollution and storm overflow spills, while maintaining resilient water supplies. Financial performance is on track, with an expected 60% increase in EBITDA and a target return on regulated equity (RORE) of 7%. The company is also advancing its renewable energy projects, with two sites set to generate power by October, contributing to 40% of the Group’s energy consumption by FY27.

Business Operations and Strategy
Pennon Group Executives Invest in Share Incentive Plan
Positive
Sep 23, 2025

Pennon Group plc announced transactions involving its Group Chief Executive Officer, Susan Jane Davy, and Group Chief Financial Officer, Laura Flowerdew, who both purchased shares to be included in the company’s Share Incentive Plan. These transactions, conducted on the London Stock Exchange, reflect the executives’ commitment to the company’s growth and alignment with shareholder interests.

Private Placements and FinancingBusiness Operations and Strategy
Pennon Group Issues GBP 300 Million Fixed-Rate Notes
Positive
Sep 11, 2025

Pennon Group plc has announced the issuance of GBP 300 million in fixed-rate notes due 2031 through its subsidiary, South West Water Finance Plc. This financial move under its Euro Medium Term Note Programme is expected to bolster the company’s financial standing and support its long-term strategic objectives.

Glossary
BuyA stock rated as a "Buy" is expected to perform better than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock is likely to deliver higher returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
HoldA stock rated as a "Hold" is expected to perform in line with the overall market or a specific benchmark. This rating indicates that the stock is neither particularly compelling nor unfavorable for investment. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
SellA stock rated as a "Sell" is expected to perform worse than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock may deliver lower returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.

Disclaimer

This AI Analyst Stock Report is automatically generated by our AI systems using advanced algorithms and publicly available financial, technical, and market data. While the information provided aims to be accurate and insightful, it is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Any content created by an AI (Artificial Intelligence) system may contain inaccuracies and/or contain errors. Investing in stocks carries inherent risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results. This report does not account for your personal financial circumstances, objectives, or risk tolerance. Always conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. The analysis and recommendations provided are based on historical and current data and may not fully reflect future market conditions or unexpected developments. Neither the creators of this report nor its affiliated entities guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. Use this report at your own discretion and risk.Date of analysis: Dec 07, 2025