CenterPoint Energy, Inc. (CNP) (the “Company” or “CenterPoint Energy”) today announced that it is evaluating strategic alternatives for the Company’s investment in Enable Midstream Partners (“Enable”), including a sale or spin-off qualifying under section 355 of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. CenterPoint Energy currently owns a 50 percent general partner interest and a 55.4 percent limited partner interest in Enable, a publicly traded master limited partnership the Company jointly controls with OGE Energy Corp (NYSE: OGE).
Scott M. Prochazka, president and chief executive officer of CenterPoint Energy, said, “We are pleased with our investment in Enable, which has grown its distributions during 2015 and continues to enjoy volume growth despite a challenging commodity price environment. With continued connections and drilling activity across its system, Enable is well-positioned for long-term growth as commodity markets recover. We believe that now is the right time to explore options for unlocking the value of our strategic investment, reflecting our continuous commitment to drive value for shareholders.”
Additionally, the Company announced it will explore the use of the REIT business model for all or part of the utility businesses.
Mr. Prochazka continued, “The REIT structure has recently received significant attention in the regulated utility industry in Texas and could have substantial potential for CenterPoint. We will continue to study the possibilities and monitor developments, including related regulatory proceedings and will present any findings to our shareholders at the appropriate time.”
There can be no assurances that these initiatives will result in any specific action, and the Company does not intend to disclose further developments on these initiatives unless and until its Board approves a specific action in consultation with the Company’s financial and legal advisors.
