The prospects of the Zacks Utility – Electric Power industry look better in 2H21 than the comparable prior-year period as demand for utility services from the Commercial and Industrial (C&I) group is picking up on the vaccination drive and resumption of economic activities. Demand from the residential group remains stable as some employees are still working from home. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s climate prediction center has forecast another above-normal Atlantic hurricane season for 2021. Per NOAA, in 2021, there is a 60% chance of an above-normal season, 30% chance of a near-normal season and 10% chance of a below-normal season. Utilities operating in the United States have been gaining experience from each hurricane season and taking measures to strengthen their infrastructure. They have worked toward increasing operational resilience, lowering expenses and investing consistently to boost infrastructure and offer services more efficiently. The prevailing near-zero level interest rates are helping in generating necessary funds for capital projects. Most of the utilities operating in the United States ensured 24X7 supply of electricity, water and natural gas to customers even if they failed to pay their utility bills and provided relaxation to those in financial distress. NextEra Energy NEE, with large renewable operations, offers an excellent opportunity to stay invested in the utility space. Other utilities that are worth holding in your portfolio include The Southern Company SO, Xcel Energy Inc. XEL, WEC Energy Group WEC and Entergy Corporation ETR. 5 Stocks Set to Double Each was hand-picked by a Zacks expert as the #1 favorite stock to gain +100% or more in 2021. Each comes from a different sector and has unique qualities and catalysts that could fuel exceptional growth. Most of the stocks in this report are flying under Wall Street radar, which provides a great opportunity to get in on the ground floor. Today, See These 5 Potential Home Runs >>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 NextEra Energy, Inc. (NEE): Free Stock Analysis Report Xcel Energy Inc. (XEL): Free Stock Analysis Report Southern Company The (SO): Free Stock Analysis Report Entergy Corporation (ETR): Free Stock Analysis Report WEC Energy Group, Inc. (WEC): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research