Xcel Energy (NYSE: XEL) reported earnings on May 2. Here are the numbers you need to know.

The 10-second takeaway
 For the quarter ended March 31 (Q1), Xcel Energy met expectations on revenues and beat expectations on earnings per share.

Compared to the prior-year quarter, revenue grew. GAAP earnings per share grew significantly.

Margins increased across the board.

Revenue details
 Xcel Energy reported revenue of $2.78 billion. The five analysts polled by S&P Capital IQ expected revenue of $2.78 billion on the same basis. GAAP reported sales were 7.9% higher 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 $0.48. The 15 earnings estimates compiled by S&P Capital IQ anticipated $0.45 per share. GAAP EPS of $0.48 for Q1 were 26% higher than the prior-year quarter's $0.38 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 31.7%, 150 basis points better than the prior-year quarter. Operating margin was 16.3%, 160 basis points better than the prior-year quarter. Net margin was 8.5%, 140 basis points better than the prior-year quarter. (Margins calculated in GAAP terms.)

Looking ahead
 Next quarter's average estimate for revenue is $2.40 billion. On the bottom line, the average EPS estimate is $0.39.

Next year's average estimate for revenue is $10.84 billion. The average EPS estimate is $1.91.

Investor sentiment

Of Wall Street recommendations tracked by S&P Capital IQ, the average opinion on Xcel Energy is hold, with an average price target of $28.89.

Can your portfolio provide you with enough income to last through retirement? You'll need more than Xcel 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.