EARNINGS PER SHARE

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 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 13, "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 Three Months Ended				For the Nine Months Ended
Eversource (Millions of Dollars, except share information)	September 30, 2019		September 30, 2018		September 30, 2019		September 30, 2018
Net Income Attributable to Common Shareholders	$	318.9	$	289.4	$	659.0	$	801.7
Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding:
Basic	324,037,169		317,360,110		320,442,253		317,367,252
Dilutive Effect of:
Share-Based Compensation Awards and Other	737,972		607,201		691,636		581,246
Equity Forward Sale Agreement	1,233,201		—		437,037		—
Total Dilutive Effect	1,971,173		607,201		1,128,673		581,246
Diluted	326,008,342		317,967,311		321,570,926		317,948,498
Basic EPS	$	0.98	$	0.91	$	2.06	$	2.53
Diluted EPS	$	0.98	$	0.91	$	2.05	$	2.52