Alliant Energy Raises 2026 Sales Outlook Amid Data Center Demand

[MARKET BIAS: NEUTRAL] [SESSION: REGULAR] [CATALYST: GUIDANCE_UPDATE] Alliant Energy (NASDAQ: LNT) on July 31, 2026, raised its 2026 sales-growth outlook to 2%-3% from a previous 1%, signaling strong demand from large-load customers, primarily data centers. The utility anticipates a 60% increase in demand by 2031, bolstered by projects from Google, QTS, and Meta, and maintains expectations for over 7% annual earnings growth from 2027 through 2029. The company reported second-quarter GAAP earnings of $0.65 per share, trending toward the upper half of its full-year guidance despite milder weather.

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## Catalyst Analysis: Data Center Demand Fuels Growth Outlook Alliant Energy's upward revision of its 2026 sales-growth forecast from 1% to 2%-3% is directly linked to accelerating demand from large-scale energy users. The utility expects this demand to surge by 60% by 2031, a projection underpinned by active projects with tech giants like Google, QTS, and Meta. These developments, including ongoing construction of data center campuses and infrastructure, highlight a substantial pipeline of future electricity consumption. Management's reaffirmation of its expectation for sustained annual earnings growth exceeding 7% from 2027 through 2029 further supports the company's positive long-term outlook. The company also plans up to $800 million in long-term debt issuance through 2026 to support its strategic initiatives.

## $LNT+WL Technical Analysis & Key Risk Watch

Key levels for $META+WL (educational): R2 $604.91 · R1 $597.63 · last $593.87 · S1 $593.13 · S2 $581.76.

As of July 31, 2026, Alliant Energy's stock performance and technical indicators require close monitoring. The company's ability to execute on its substantial growth projects and secure regulatory approvals for rate agreements will be critical. Key risks include potential delays in project timelines, fluctuations in energy commodity prices, and evolving regulatory landscapes that could impact profitability and future investments. Investors should watch for updates on project completion and demand realization relative to the company's growth targets. Given the information provided, no specific price levels or RSI data were available for $LNT+WL in the LIVE MARKET CONTEXT.

### Sector Ripple / Impact on Utilities The surge in data center development is a significant trend across the utility sector. Companies positioned to capitalize on this demand, such as those with robust infrastructure and regulatory frameworks in place, may see accelerated growth. This trend could also spur further investment in grid modernization and renewable energy sources to meet the increasing power requirements of these large-scale operations. Broader impacts may include increased capital expenditure among utilities focused on industrial and commercial growth segments.