Nov 6 (Reuters) - Vistra Corp VST.N on Thursday forecast 2026 adjusted core profit higher than its outlook for the current year, signaling confidence in its growing power generation portfolio and strong demand across U.S. markets.

The Texas-based electricity producer expects 2026 adjusted EBITDA between $6.8 billion and $7.6 billion, up from its 2025 forecast range of $5.7 billion to $5.9 billion, as it expands gas-fired and clean energy capacity.

Vistra's board also approved an additional $1 billion in share buybacks.

A surge in AI and cryptocurrency data centers, combined with the accelerating electrification of homes and businesses, is expected to push U.S. power demand to record levels in 2025 and 2026, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

To meet the rise in demand, Vistra has in recent months signed a 20-year deal to supply 1,200 megawatt from a nuclear plant and acquired seven natural gas facilities totaling 2,600 MW for $1.9 billion.

It is also advancing construction on several solar and storage projects, including facilities in Texas, Illinois, and California, backed by long-term power purchase agreements with Amazon and Microsoft.

For the third quarter, however, Vistra's net income more than halved to $652 million due to a decline in unrealized gains from derivative positions of $1.67 billion, and higher operating expenses.

Operating expenses for the July-September quarter increased about 6.3% to $655 million.

(Reporting by Sumit Saha and Varun Sahay in Bengaluru; Editing by Devika Syamnath)

((Sumit.Saha@thomsonreuters.com;))