FitchRatings on July 6 lifted Eversource Energy's outlook to positive from stable, inlight of the company's stronger business risk profile and solid operational andfinancial performance.

The ratingagency also upgraded the long-term issuer default ratings of Eversourceelectric utilities ConnecticutLight and Power Co., Public Service Co. of New Hampshire and toA- from BBB+.

The upgradereflects Fitch's expectation for CL&P of continued financial strength asthe utility invests in transmission projects and reduces operating andmaintenance expense.

For PSNH,the upgrade was driven by its planned divestiture of generation assets, whichwas recently approved by New Hampshire regulators, and an associated reductionin the utility's business risk. Fitch upgraded WMECO onimproved business profile and expected stronger credit metrics.

The ratingagency also affirmed the long-term IDRs of Eversource Energy at BBB+,NSTAR Electric Co. atA, and at A-.

The outlookfor the Eversource utilities is stable.