NRG Energy (NRG 1.12%) is the largest independent power producer in the U.S. with capacity of 47,000 megawatts (that's enough power to support ~40 million homes). Rather than simply rebuilding the wheel and offer its customers traditional fossil fuel power access, NRG is focused on the transition to a sustainable, low carbon society.
I believe investors intrigued by the potential for electric vehicles (EVs) may do well to consider adding shares of NRG since, through its eVgo network, the company continues to build out home chargers and public fast charging stations. Therefore, investors may find it is far less risky to invest in NRG versus the very volatile Tesla Motors (TSLA +2.41%). Additionally, NRG's exposure to natural gas should be ignored since in recent years the company has acquired Reliant's retail business, Green Mountain and Gen On. To me, NRG's under-the-radar stake in the natural gas market makes it a more compelling investment story than even Chesapeake Energy (CHK +0.00%). At the end of the day, NRG is not your grandfather's utility name, and the company's diverse focus on a lower carbon footprint should not be ignored.
