Genie Energy Announces Purchase of Partner's Interest in Orbit Energy JV

Rhea-AI Summary

Genie Energy Ltd. (NYSE: GNE, GNEPRA) has acquired the remaining 24% stake in its UK retail energy joint venture, Orbit Energy, from its former partner for approximately $1.7 million. After settling outstanding loans, the net cost was about $1.4 million. This acquisition aligns with Genie's strategy to consolidate Orbit Energy as a wholly owned subsidiary, enhancing its GREI Segment. CEO Michael Stein emphasized the long-term growth potential in the UK market, while Orbit's CEO noted the streamlined management will support ongoing growth initiatives.

Positive

• Acquisition of 24% stake in Orbit Energy enhances market position.
• Consolidation under GREI Segment may improve financial reporting.
• Potential for long-term growth in the UK retail energy market.

Negative

• None.

NEWARK, N.J., Oct. 9, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Genie Energy Ltd., (NYSE: GNE, GNEPRA), a global provider of energy services, announced that it has purchased the outstanding 24% interest in its retail energy supply joint venture operating in the United Kingdom (U.K.) from its former joint venture partner.  The venture, which operates under the trade name Orbit Energy, provides electricity and natural gas service to over 100,000 residential meters in the U.K.'s deregulated retail energy market. The purchase price was approximately $1.7 million.  Net of repayment of outstanding loans, Genie paid approximately $1.4 million.

Following the transaction, Orbit Energy's operating company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Genie Energy.  Genie will consolidate Orbit's results in its financial reporting under the Genie Retail Energy International (GREI) Segment.

"Since its launch two years ago, our Orbit Energy initiative has validated our approach to the retail energy supply business in the United Kingdom and proven the potential for long term growth in this exciting market," said Michael Stein, Genie Energy's Chief Executive Officer.  "With the purchase of the outstanding interest in Orbit, we continue to expand our international portfolio of rapidly growing retail energy suppliers."

Gail Parker, CEO of Orbit Energy, added, "Genie's investment provides a streamlined management structure that will help us to respond nimbly as we continue to execute on our growth strategy.  We will continue to provide the outstanding service and value that our customers here in the UK expect."

About Genie Energy Ltd.:
Genie Energy Ltd., (NYSE: GNE, GNEPRA) is a global energy solutions company.  We supply homes and small businesses in the US, Europe and Asia with electricity including electricity generated from renewable resources and with natural gas.  We provide commercial and industrial clients with energy brokerage and consultative services through our Diversegy brand.  Through Genie Solar Energy and Prism Solar, we design, construct and install commercial solar energy solutions.  For more information, visit https://genie.com/.

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SOURCE Genie Energy Ltd.

FAQ

What is Genie Energy's recent acquisition in the UK?

Genie Energy has acquired the remaining 24% interest in its UK joint venture, Orbit Energy, for approximately $1.7 million.

How much did Genie Energy pay net for the Orbit Energy acquisition?

Genie Energy paid about $1.4 million net after repaying outstanding loans.

What is the significance of the Orbit Energy acquisition for Genie Energy?

The acquisition allows Genie Energy to consolidate Orbit as a wholly owned subsidiary, potentially enhancing its international portfolio and financial reporting.

When was the acquisition of Orbit Energy by Genie Energy announced?

The acquisition was announced on October 9, 2020.

What is the future outlook for Genie Energy after acquiring Orbit Energy?

Genie Energy aims to leverage the acquisition for growth in the UK retail energy market, as indicated by its CEO.