** Shares of utility firm Talen Energy TLN.O up 1.4% at $204.66

** Company, on Thursday, reported an increase in its annual profit, helped by lower operating and energy expenses

** TLN reported net income attributable to stockholders of $998 million, compared to $613 million a year ago

** Company also reported operation, maintenance and development expenses of $592 million, compared to $643 million a year earlier

** Energy expenses fell to $797 million from $867 million a year ago

** Including session's moves, shares up 1.67% YTD

(Reporting by Katha Kalia)

((Katha.Kalia@thomsonreuters.com))