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After spending months stuck at a middle-of-the-road three-star rank, enough top-performing CAPS members have turned bullish on PPL (NYSE:PPL) recently to upgrade it to a more formidable four stars. A total of 268 members have given their opinion on the energy utility, with many of them offering analysis and commentary explaining the recent optimism.

Lower wholesale power prices and slower demand pressured earnings in recent quarters for PPL and others utilities such as Xcel Energy (NYSE:XEL), Allegheny Energy (NYSE:AYE), and NRG Energy (NYSE:NRG). The Barclays Capital U.S. Power Index, which tracks wholesale power contract prices, has fallen far from its peaks in mid-2008. However, some CAPS members see a turn for the better with PPL and look for a recovery in power demand and like the long-term power outlook.

The company also recently reported record production at its Susquehanna nuclear power plant for 2009. PPL is undertaking a multiyear project to increase electricity generation there, and also scored a 20-year operating license renewal for both reactors at the plant.                                                                                                                         

Investors are also bullish about the rate cap expiration in its Pennsylvania market that took place at the beginning of the year, allowing PPL to charge its customers higher rates -- a benefit that top 2010 stock Exelon (NYSE:EXC) and Allegheny will enjoy there next year. The deregulation is expected to help PPL's generation business and the company is forecasting earnings much higher than last year. Many CAPS members also like the solid dividend that PPL pays out, similar to another dividend favorite among investors in the sector, Duke Energy (NYSE:DUK).                         

Do you think PPL deserves its raised status? Add your thoughts in the comments box below on this page, or head over to CAPS to rate the company and check out all the information and opinions the community offers, absolutely free.