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Powerco cookin' with gas

By Phil Boeyen, ShareChat Business News Editor

Thursday 21st June 2001

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Energy company Powerco (NZSE: PWC) is shelling out $118 million to buy Australian Gas Light's Hutt Valley and Porirua Basin gas network.

Chairman Barry Upson says the purchase comprises approximately 1,000 km of gas assets for $102.5 million and meters and regulators for $15.5 million.

The purchase expands Powerco's gas network to around 2,000 km, giving the company 22% of the national market in terms of gas connections.

Powerco's chief executive, Steven Boulton, says the purchase represents significant gas industry growth for the company.

"The network is relatively modern due to recent refurbishments and upgrades, and has a strong record for reliability and quality of supply".

Mr Boulton says the company is also looking for further acquisition or diversification growth, which could include new electricity and gas networks, as well as opportunities to manage and service other networks such as water or telecommunications.

Following the purchase of the new gas assets the company says it will have 155,000 electricity customer connections and around 48,000 gas customer connections, consolidating its position as the country's third largest energy retailer.

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