Willdan Group Secures $49 Million Energy Services Contract
Willdan Group, Inc. shares fell 25.59% as the stock crossed below its 5-day SMA amid broader market weakness, with the Nasdaq-100 down 0.33% and the S&P 500 down 0.49%.
The company has secured a $49 million energy services contract with Mt. San Antonio College in California, which includes the implementation of solar PV systems, battery energy storage, and EV charging stations. This project aims to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability on campus, benefiting approximately 77,000 students annually. The construction is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2027, marking a significant step in Willdan's commitment to energy solutions.
Despite the stock's decline, this contract represents a positive development for Willdan, as it aligns with the company's focus on energy services and sustainability initiatives, potentially driving future revenue growth.
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- Stake Reduction Details: According to a May 7, 2026 SEC filing, Bard Associates sold 73,167 shares of Willdan Group in Q1, with an estimated trade value of $7.74 million, indicating a $7.59 million decrease in the fund's position value due to both the sale and price fluctuations, highlighting market volatility's impact on its portfolio.
- Holding Proportion Change: Following the reduction, Bard Associates' stake in Willdan Group now represents less than 0.004% of its reportable U.S. equity AUM, suggesting that the investment is no longer a significant asset, which may influence future investment decisions.
- Willdan Performance Metrics: Willdan reported an 8.3% increase in net revenue to $92.4 million in Q1, with adjusted EBITDA rising 25% to $18.1 million and net income surging 82% to $8.5 million, prompting management to raise its 2026 outlook to an adjusted EBITDA projection between $100 million and $105 million.
- Market Reaction Analysis: Despite Willdan's stock price rallying 85% over the past year, Bard's stake reduction appears to be a profit-taking move rather than a loss of confidence in the company's fundamentals, reflecting a cautious investor sentiment ahead of strong earnings releases that could influence short-term market dynamics.
- Share Reduction Details: Bard Associates sold 73,167 shares of Willdan Group in Q1, with an estimated transaction value of $7.74 million, representing 1.94% of its reportable U.S. equity assets.
- Position Value Decline: This trade resulted in a $7.59 million decrease in Bard's quarter-end position value in Willdan, reflecting the combined effects of trading and price changes.
- Company Performance Growth: Willdan reported an 8.3% increase in net revenue to $92.4 million in Q1, with adjusted EBITDA rising 25% to $18.1 million and net income surging 82% to $8.5 million, prompting management to raise its 2026 outlook.
- Market Demand Analysis: Willdan is benefiting from strong demand tied to grid modernization and energy efficiency upgrades, and despite an 85% stock rally over the past year, some investors opted to lock in gains, indicating confidence in its future performance.
- Acquisition Impact: Willdan Group completed the acquisition of Burton Energy Group this week, with Burton generating approximately $103 million in contract revenue, $15 million in net revenue, and $7 million in EBITDA in 2025, which is expected to enhance Willdan's margins and EPS, further driving the company's expansion into the commercial sector.
- Strong Financial Performance: In Q1 2026, Willdan achieved a record adjusted EBITDA of $18.1 million, representing 19.6% of net revenue and a 44% increase compared to the previous year, demonstrating effective management in expense control and tax benefits.
- Raised Revenue Outlook: Based on a strong start, Willdan raised its 2026 net revenue guidance to between $410 million and $425 million, with adjusted EBITDA expected to be between $100 million and $105 million, reflecting the contribution from Burton and ongoing contract wins.
- Commercial Revenue Growth: Commercial revenue is projected to account for 25% of total revenue in 2026, a significant increase from 7% in 2024, showcasing Willdan's strategic transformation and expansion capabilities in the commercial market, thereby enhancing the company's growth potential.
- Strategic Expansion: On May 4, Willdan acquired 100% of Burton Energy Group, integrating Burton's energy management capabilities into Willdan, which is expected to significantly enhance its market position in the commercial sector.
- Financial Performance: Burton reported approximately $103 million in contract revenue and $15 million in net revenue for 2025, demonstrating strong performance in energy management, and is anticipated to positively impact Willdan's adjusted earnings per share in 2026.
- Enhanced Client Base: This acquisition expands Willdan's client base to include several Fortune 500 companies, further solidifying its influence in the Southeast and Midwest markets while enhancing client service capabilities.
- Cultural Alignment: The founder of Burton noted that Willdan's alignment in culture and values will foster collaborative growth, driving innovation and improved customer service.
- Acquisition Announcement: Willdan Group, Inc. has acquired 100% of Burton Energy Group.
- Strategic Move: This acquisition is part of Willdan's strategy to enhance its energy services and expand its market presence.










