EX-12 2 h40672exv12.txt COMPUTATION OF RATIOS OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES Exhibit 12 CENTERPOINT ENERGY, INCORPORATED AND SUBSIDIARIES COMPUTATION OF RATIOS OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES (MILLIONS OF DOLLARS)
NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, -------------------------- 2005 2006 ------------ ------------ Income from continuing operations...................................... $ 144 $ 365 Income taxes for continuing operations................................. 122 25 Capitalized interest................................................... (3) (5) ------------ ------------ 263 385 ------------ ------------ Fixed charges, as defined: Interest............................................................ 548 451 Capitalized interest................................................ 3 5 Interest component of rentals charged to operating income........... 9 13 ------------ ------------ Total fixed charges................................................. 560 469 ------------ ------------ Earnings, as defined................................................... $ 823 $ 854 ============ ============ Ratio of earnings to fixed charges..................................... 1.47 1.82 ============ ============