AGL share price dips as $20b price tag flagged for coal exit

AGL is exiting coal fired generation earlier than planned…

| More on:
A woman looks sideways at a graphic near her head reading CO2 with a downward arrow.

Image source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

The AGL Energy Limited (ASX: AGL) share price is trading lower on Thursday.

In morning trade, the energy company's shares are down 0.6% to $6.56.

This compares to a stunning gain of 1.9% by the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO).

Why is the AGL share price underperforming?

The AGL share price is underperforming on Thursday after investors gave a lukewarm response to the company's strategic review update.

That update revealed that AGL is aiming for an accelerated exit from all coal fired generation.

This will see the company look to close the Loy Yang A Power Station up to 10 years earlier than previously announced.

Management expects this and others actions to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions from 40 million tonnes to net zero.

However, this will come at significant cost, which appears to have spooked investors today.

To achieve its goals, AGL advised that it will progressively decarbonise its asset portfolio with new renewable and firming capacity. This will require a total investment of up to $20 billion by 2036. This is expected to be funded from a combination of assets on AGL's balance sheet, offtakes, and partnerships.

Are AGL's shares a buy?

One broker that sees a lot of value in the AGL share price at present is Morgans.

Its analysts currently have an add rating and $8.63 price target on the company's shares. This implies potential upside of 30% over the next 12 months.

However, it is worth noting that the broker has not yet responded to today's update and will no doubt be busy assessing how these plans impact its earnings estimates and valuation.

So, investors may want to sit tight and keep their powder dry until Morgans has reassessed the company.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Energy Shares

A male oil and gas mechanic wearing a white hardhat walks along a steel platform above a series of gas pipes in a gas plant
Energy Shares

Here's how the Santos share price is responding to today's production results

Santos reported its quarterly production and revenue results today.

Read more »

A man casually dressed looks to the side in a pensive, thoughtful manner with one hand under his chin, holding a mobile phone in his hand while thinking about something.
Energy Shares

Should you buy the 10% dip on this ASX 300 uranium stock?

Could big returns be on the cards for buyers of this stock? Let's see what analysts are saying.

Read more »

A female coal miner wearing a white hardhat and orange high-vis vest holds a lump of coal and smiles as the Whitehaven Coal share price rises today
Broker Notes

1 ASX 200 energy stock with 'minimal competition' to buy right now

This stock is trading 30% lower than its 2022 record high.

Read more »

A miner in visibility gear and hard hat looks seriously at an iPad device in a field where oil mining equipment is visible in the background.
Energy Shares

Oil price spikes on Iran's attack. Now what?

The oil price remains near six-month highs as the world awaits Israel’s response to Iran’s drone and rocket attack.

Read more »

A man slumps crankily over his morning coffee as it pours with rain outside.
Energy Shares

Why is the New Hope share price sinking on Monday?

What's going on with this coal miner's shares?

Read more »

A miner in visibility gear and hard hat looks seriously at an iPad device in a field where oil mining equipment is visible in the background.
Energy Shares

2 ASX 200 energy stocks to buy for oil and uranium exposure

Analysts think these energy stocks could offer decent upside for investors.

Read more »

Happy man standing in front of an oil rig.
Energy Shares

Broker says Woodside share price weakness is a buy opportunity

Now could be a buying opportunity for investors according to Wilsons.

Read more »

2 workers standing in front of a wind farm giving a high five.
Energy Shares

Origin shares fall despite 'highly strategic' $300m renewable energy acquisition

Origin is taking a big step in its clean energy transition.

Read more »