EARNINGS PER SHARE

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2019

Basic EPS is computed based upon the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during each period. Diluted EPS is computed on the basis of the weighted average number of common shares outstanding plus the potential dilutive effect of certain share-based compensation awards and the equity forward sale agreement, as if they were converted into outstanding common shares. The dilutive effect of unvested RSU and performance share awards, as well as the equity forward sale agreement, is calculated using the treasury stock method. RSU and performance share awards are included in basic weighted average common shares outstanding as of the date that all necessary vesting conditions have been satisfied.

As described in Note 19, "Common Shares," earnings per share dilution, if any, related to the forward sale agreement will be determined under the treasury stock method until settlement of the forward sale agreement. Under this method, the number of Eversource common shares used in calculating diluted EPS is deemed to be increased by the excess, if any, of the number of shares that would be issued upon physical settlement of the forward sale agreement less the number of shares that would be purchased by Eversource in the market (based on the average market price during the same reporting period) using the proceeds receivable upon settlement (based on the adjusted forward sale price at the end of that reporting period). Share dilution occurs when the average market price of Eversource's common shares is higher than the adjusted forward sale price.

The following table sets forth the components of basic and diluted EPS:



Eversource (Millions of Dollars, except share information)	For the Years Ended December 31,
Eversource (Millions of Dollars, except share information)	2019		2018		2017
Net Income Attributable to Common Shareholders	$	909.1	$	1,033.0	$	988.0
Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding:
Basic	321,416,086		317,370,369		317,411,097
Dilutive Effect of:
Share-Based Compensation Awards and Other	762,215		623,565		620,483
Equity Forward Sale Agreement	763,335		—		—
Total Dilutive Effect	1,525,550		623,565		620,483
Diluted	322,941,636		317,993,934		318,031,580
Basic EPS	$	2.83	$	3.25	$	3.11
Diluted EPS	$	2.81	$	3.25	$	3.11