Sempra Energy (NYSE: SRE) reported earnings on Nov. 6. Here are the numbers you need to know.

The 10-second takeaway
 For the quarter ended Sep. 30 (Q3), Sempra Energy beat expectations on revenues and crushed expectations on earnings per share.

Compared to the prior-year quarter, revenue dropped slightly and GAAP earnings per share shrank.

Gross margins expanded, operating margins dropped, net margins contracted.

Revenue details
 Sempra Energy tallied revenue of $2.51 billion. The one analyst polled by S&P Capital IQ looked for a top line of $2.32 billion on the same basis. GAAP reported sales were 2.7% lower than the prior-year quarter's $2.58 billion.

Source: S&P Capital IQ. Quarterly periods. Dollar amounts in millions. Non-GAAP figures may vary to maintain comparability with estimates.

EPS details
 EPS came in at $1.33. The seven earnings estimates compiled by S&P Capital IQ averaged $1.01 per share. GAAP EPS of $1.09 for Q3 were 11% lower than the prior-year quarter's $1.22 per share.

Source: S&P Capital IQ. Quarterly periods. Non-GAAP figures may vary to maintain comparability with estimates.

Margin details
 For the quarter, gross margin was 34.7%, 160 basis points better than the prior-year quarter. Operating margin was 19.9%, 20 basis points worse than the prior-year quarter. Net margin was 10.7%, 80 basis points worse than the prior-year quarter.

Looking ahead
 Next quarter's average estimate for revenue is $2.70 billion. On the bottom line, the average EPS estimate is $1.28.

Next year's average estimate for revenue is $9.79 billion. The average EPS estimate is $4.18.

Investor sentiment

Of Wall Street recommendations tracked by S&P Capital IQ, the average opinion on Sempra Energy is hold, with an average price target of $68.50.

Can your portfolio provide you with enough income to last through retirement? You'll need more than Sempra Energy. Learn how to maximize your investment income and "Secure Your Future With 9 Rock-Solid Dividend Stocks." Click here for instant access to this free report.