Entergy gives earnings forecast

NEW ORLEANS — Entergy Corporation expects fourth quarter 2009 as-reported earnings of approximately $1.63 per share and operational earnings of approximately $1.74 per share, compared to as-reported results of $0.89 per share and operational results of $0.99 per share in fourth quarter 2008.

As-reported results are prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and are comprised of operational earnings and special items. As-reported earnings in fourth quarter 2009 include a special item at Entergy Nuclear for spin-off dis-synergies. Utility, Parent & Other fourth quarter results in both 2008 and 2009 include a special item for expenses for outside services to pursue the non-utility nuclear spin-off. In addition, each business reflects a special item in 2008 for the effects of the unsuccessful remarketing of the Equity Units in Feb. 2009.

The increase in fourth quarter 2009 operational earnings was due primarily to higher results at Utility, Parent & Other, partially offset by lower earnings at Entergy Nuclear. Non-Nuclear Wholesale Assets business’ earnings also improved over fourth quarter 2008.

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