The National Grid PLC Board has approved an interim dividend of 17.21p per ordinary share ($1.1573 per American Depositary Share). This represents 35% of the total dividend per share of 49.16p in respect of the last financial year to 31 March 2021 and is in line with the Group's dividend policy. The interim dividend is expected to be paid on 19 January 2022 to shareholders on the register as at 3 December 2021.
Other financial highlights include:
◦ Underlying operating profit up 47% to £1.4bn. Excluding the first time contribution of £257m from Western Power Distribution (WPD), underlying operating profit was up 20% driven by the first six months of operations at IFA2, reduced impact from COVID-19 compared to the prior year, and higher UK Electricity Transmission net revenue as we accelerate our investment for the energy transition at the start of RIIO-T2.
◦ Statutory operating profit up 55% to £1.5bn, including £350m of commodity mark-to-market gains.
◦ Underlying EPS for continuing operations up 66% to 22.8p reflecting improved performance, acquisition of WPD and non-treasury interest benefits in the first half.
◦ Statutory EPS of 10.5p, down 25% as a result of the remeasurement of deferred tax balances at the new UK rate of 25% which comes into effect from 1 April 2023.
