Solar demand jumps and LNG risks grow as NKT beats expectations - 13 May 2026

As of May 13, today’s news features NKT’s financial results and evolving trends in the energy markets amidst geopolitical tensions. NKT's shares soared to record highs, gaining as much as 7.6%, driven by strong first-quarter earnings and reaffirmed guidance that exceeded analysts’ expectations, particularly in profitability. The company reported an adjusted revenue of 610 million euros, down 3.2% from the previous year, but operating EBITDA rose by 20% to 97 million euros, reflecting a robust operating EBITDA margin of 16%. Meanwhile, SMA Solar said today demand for residential and commercial solar equipment in Europe has risen since the start of the Iran war, lifting sales at its home and business division. In the context of European power markets, spot prices dropped as the Ascension Day holiday reduced demand. German contracts fell by 5.3% from the prior day, while French day-ahead prices plummeted 72% due to anticipated low consumption. Analysts expect reduced supply from German wind power during the holiday, further contributing to lower prices. Moreover, the ongoing cold spell in the region is expected to linger into early next week, which could prolong the decreased generation of renewable energy. Turning to trends in energy consumption, the U.S. Energy Information Administration projected that power usage will continue to surge in the U.S., reaching record highs through 2027, driven by increased electricity demand from data centers and a shift from fossil fuels to cleaner energy sources. This rising demand contrasts with a continued reduction in coal's share of generation, indicating a shift towards renewables. Elaborating on market risks, European regulators warned about the growing dependence on U.S. liquefied natural gas, highlighting vulnerabilities tied to relying on a single supplier as imports have tripled since 2021, particularly in light of the ongoing energy crisis exacerbated by the Iran war. Finally, U.S. President Donald Trump has said he does not expect to need China's help to end the war in Iran and ease Tehran's grip on the Strait of Hormuz, in remarks made before he arrived in Beijing on Wednesday for a summit with President Xi Jinping.