2 Green Energy Stocks to Buy in 2026

The need for green energy is gaining momentum worldwide as humanity gradually shifts away from fossil fuels. It won't necessarily be a fast or smooth transition. Still, as data centers and population growth drive soaring electricity demand, two companies stand out as leaders poised to capitalize on it.

NextEra Energy (NYSE: NEE) and Brookfield Renewable Partners (NYSE: BEP) (NYSE: BEPC) are well positioned to lead the green energy movement now and in the future. Let's have a look at what both companies offer investors.

NextEra's steady growth

NextEra Energy is already the world's largest electric utility holding company with a current market capitalization of $191 billion as of March 30. In addition to being a regulated utility company, NextEra has an enviable renewables division.

In 2025, NextEra reported 8.2% earnings-per-share growth. The company anticipates maintaining this growth rate through at least 2032. NextEra also set another company record in backlog growth, adding 13.5 gigawatts last year.

NextEra's stock is less volatile than the overall market, with a beta of 0.75. Yet, it trades at a slight premium relative to its utility peers due to its growth prospects. The stock's trailing P/E ratio is over 27 now, and its price/earnings-to-growth ratio is 2.67. The stock, however, is worth the high price of admission, in my view, due to its long-term revenue visibility and attractive dividend yield of 2.73%.

Brookfield Renewable Partners shines bright

Brookfield is another green energy company growing at an impressive rate. In 2025, the company reported $1.3 billion in funds from operations (FFO). This is a 10% year-over-year increase. The company also announced a 5% increase in distributions.

Brookfield issued C$500 million (USD $360 million) in green bonds in January 2026 and, just last week, announced an agreement to acquire Canadian independent renewable energy company Boralex (OTC: BRLXF) alongside investment group La Caisse. This acquisition should help Brookfield further accelerate growth. Additionally, the proceeds from the green bonds are used to fund investments in renewable energy projects that meet the criteria for the 17 Sustainable Development Goals set by the United Nations.

Both share classes of Brookfield stock are up by more than 40% over the past 12 months. Investors can choose to invest in the company's limited partnership (BEP) or its regular corporation (BEPC). Both classes are based on the same underlying assets but have different tax treatments. Brookfield's strong growth is also supported by a solid annual dividend of $1.57 per share.

Two powerful energy stocks

Brookfield and NextEra stand out for their distinct approaches and investor appeal. NextEra offers strong earnings visibility and regulated cash flows. Brookfield has a higher dividend yield and strong total return potential through its complex, globally diversified portfolio. As the transition to green energy continues, these are the two green energy stocks investors can feel confident in.

Catie Hogan has positions in NextEra Energy. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends NextEra Energy. The Motley Fool recommends Brookfield Renewable and Brookfield Renewable Partners. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.