Investors focused on the Utilities space have likely heard of PPL (PPL Quick QuotePPL - Free Report) , but is the stock performing well in comparison to the rest of its sector peers? One simple way to answer this question is to take a look at the year-to-date performance of PPL and the rest of the Utilities group's stocks.

PPL is one of 122 companies in the Utilities group. The Utilities group currently sits at #5 within the Zacks Sector Rank. The Zacks Sector Rank considers 16 different sector groups. The average Zacks Rank of the individual stocks within the groups is measured, and the sectors are listed from best to worst.

The Zacks Rank is a proven system that emphasizes earnings estimates and estimate revisions, highlighting a variety of stocks that are displaying the right characteristics to beat the market over the next one to three months. PPL is currently sporting a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy).

Within the past quarter, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for PPL's full-year earnings has moved 0.19% higher. This is a sign of improving analyst sentiment and a positive earnings outlook trend.

According to our latest data, PPL has moved about 9.88% on a year-to-date basis. In comparison, Utilities companies have returned an average of 20.45%. This means that PPL is performing better than its sector in terms of year-to-date returns.

Breaking things down more, PPL is a member of the Utility - Electric Power industry, which includes 64 individual companies and currently sits at #83 in the Zacks Industry Rank. This group has gained an average of 20.27% so far this year, so PPL is slightly underperforming its industry in this area.

Investors with an interest in Utilities stocks should continue to track PPL. The stock will be looking to continue its solid performance.