Sempra Energy SRE, an energy services holding company, engages in the sale, distribution, storage and transportation of electricity and natural gas. The San Diego, CA-based firm’s businesses are divided into California Utilities, Sempra International and Sempra U.S. Gas & Power.Sempra Energy’s stable cash generating capacity, several development projects, steady focus on expansion of renewable capacity and systematic asset divestment strategy is expected to boost its future performance. In addition, the company’s practice of paying dividend is commendable.However, stringent government regulations and several operational risks remain potential setbacks.Estimate Trend & Surprise HistoryInvestors should note that the recent earnings estimate for Sempra Energy has remained stable over the past 7 days at $1.63. The company currently has a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell).Coming to the earnings surprise, Sempra Energy has surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate in the last four quarters with an average beat of 15.81%.Going further things could definitely change given the company’s recently released earnings results. Going below we have mentioned some of the vital information from this just-revealed announcement:Earnings: Sempra Energy missed the earnings expectation by 9.8%. Our consensus called for first-quarter EPS of $1.63, and the company reported adjusted EPS of $1.47.The company reported total revenue of $2,622 million, down from $2,682 million a year-ago.Key Stats to Note: The company provided its 2016 adjusted EPS guidance in the range of $4.60 to $5.00, down from the prior guidance range of $4.80 to $5.20.Check back later for our full write up on this SRE earnings report later!Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report >> Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report SEMPRA ENERGY (SRE): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research