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Cordia Announces Financial Close on Three Energy Systems from Essential Utilities in Allegheny County

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Cordia, a leading energy solutions provider, announced the financial closing on the acquisition of three microgrids and district energy systems in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, from Essential Utilities, Inc. The $165 million acquisition includes the Pittsburgh International Airport Microgrid, the district energy system at Allegheny Health Network (AHN) – Wexford Hospital, and the Allegheny County District Energy System. Cordia's CEO highlighted the strategic importance of the acquisitions in strengthening the company's presence in the Pittsburgh region and supporting critical institutions with efficient and sustainable energy solutions. The projects were developed by Essential subsidiary Peoples, leveraging natural gas to deliver safer, more reliable, and more resilient energy to major institutions in the region.
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The acquisition of the three microgrids and district energy systems by Cordia signifies a strategic expansion in the energy sector, particularly within the Pittsburgh region. By taking over systems that leverage the local abundance of natural gas, Cordia is positioning itself to capitalize on the growing demand for reliable and sustainable energy solutions. The $165 million investment underscores the value placed on infrastructure that can provide energy independence and resilience, as seen with the Pittsburgh International Airport Microgrid.

From an energy sector perspective, the deal enhances Cordia's asset portfolio and operational efficiency. The integration of these systems is likely to result in operational synergies and cost savings over time, given Cordia's existing presence in the region. The focus on sustainability and reliability aligns with broader industry trends, where there is an increasing shift towards decentralized energy production and the use of cleaner fuel sources like natural gas.

The financial closing of this acquisition at $165 million is a substantial capital allocation for Cordia, which investors will monitor closely for return on investment (ROI). The acquisition's impact on Cordia's balance sheet and future earnings will be a focal point, as stakeholders will expect the acquired systems to contribute positively to the company's cash flows and profitability. Given the operational commencement of these systems in 2021, their performance data could provide a glimpse into future financial benefits.

Moreover, the strategic nature of the acquisition could potentially enhance Cordia's market position and bargaining power, leading to improved contract terms with customers and suppliers. As the energy market evolves, Cordia's increased capabilities in microgrid and district energy systems may offer a competitive edge, potentially impacting the company's stock performance positively if managed effectively.

The emphasis on sustainable and resilient energy solutions is a critical aspect of this acquisition. Cordia's investment in microgrids and district energy systems aligns with global sustainability goals and the transition towards cleaner energy sources. The Pittsburgh International Airport Microgrid, for example, represents an innovative approach to energy independence and resilience, setting a precedent for other institutions to follow.

It is also important to consider the long-term sustainability implications of relying on natural gas, a fossil fuel that, while cleaner than coal or oil, still contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Cordia's commitment to sustainability will be measured not just by the efficiency of its systems but also by its ability to integrate renewable energy sources and reduce carbon footprints over time.

PHOENIX, Jan. 30, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Cordia, a leading provider of safe, reliable, and sustainable energy solutions, today announced the financial closing on the three microgrids and district energy systems in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, from Essential Utilities, Inc. (NYSE: WTRG). The acquisition closed at $165 million.

The three energy systems included in the agreement are:

  • The Pittsburgh International Airport Microgrid, the first of its kind, which allows the airport to operate independent of the electric grid thanks to a 21.25 MW natural gas power plant, making PIT one of the most resilient airports.
  • The district energy system at Allegheny Health Network (AHN) – Wexford Hospital, which provides the 160-bed hospital with all heating, cooling, and primary power needs via steam boilers, hot water boilers, chillers, and a 2.0 MW natural gas generator, along with emergency backup power.
  • The Allegheny County District Energy System, which provides efficient and resilient steam and hot water services to six government buildings including the Allegheny County Courthouse and City-County Building, using seven state-of-the-art steam boilers and one domestic water heater.

"We are excited to announce the successful completion of the acquisition of three cutting-edge energy systems in Allegheny County," said Cordia CEO Earl Collins. "These strategic acquisitions not only strengthen Cordia's presence in the Pittsburgh region but also emphasizes our commitment to supporting critical institutions with efficient and sustainable energy solutions."

The acquisition expands the firm's presence in the Pittsburgh region where it currently operates energy systems in Pittsburgh's Uptown and North Shore neighborhoods, and the on-campus energy system for Duquesne University. Cordia's assets have been operating in the region since 1964, and its existing investments in the area allow Cordia to deliver the most efficient solutions to its customers. This acquisition is a testament to Cordia's commitment to growing its regional presence and building on its existing customer base.

The three energy systems were developed by Essential subsidiary Peoples, leveraging Southwestern Pennsylvania's abundance of natural gas to deliver safer, more reliable and more resilient energy to some of the region's most critical institutions. All three began operating in 2021.

"These innovative projects demonstrate the ability of natural gas to meet all the energy needs of major institutions, such as Pittsburgh International Airport and their groundbreaking microgrid," said Essential Utilities CEO Chris Franklin. "I'm proud of our team's work to develop these systems. Essential and Peoples will continue to support projects that provide resilient, sustainable energy to Western Pennsylvania."

"I want to extend my gratitude to Essential Utilities, Inc. and Peoples for their role in developing these state-of-the-art energy systems," continued Collins. "Cordia remains committed to providing safer, more reliable, and more resilient energy to our community. We are enthusiastic about the positive impact these systems will have on the region and are confident in our ability to continue delivering exceptional energy solutions for years to come."

About Cordia 

Cordia is a leading provider of safe, reliable, and sustainable energy solutions. Headquartered in Phoenix, AZ, Cordia serves over 700 customers with heating, cooling, and electricity throughout the U.S. Cordia is committed to driving change toward a more resilient, sustainable energy future and empowering people and communities to reach their full potential. Learn more at www.cordiaenergy.com.

About Essential

Essential Utilities, Inc. (NYSE: WTRG) delivers safe, clean, reliable services that improve quality of life for individuals, families, and entire communities. With a focus on water, wastewater and natural gas, Essential is committed to sustainable growth, operational excellence, a superior customer experience, and premier employer status. We are advocates for the communities we serve and are dedicated stewards of natural lands, protecting more than 7,600 acres of forests and other habitats throughout our footprint.

Operating as the Aqua and Peoples brands, Essential serves approximately 5.5 million people across 9 states. Essential is one of the most significant publicly traded water, wastewater service and natural gas providers in the U.S. Learn more at www.essential.co.

About Peoples

Peoples provides clean, safe, affordable and reliable natural gas service to approximately 740,000 homes and businesses in Western Pennsylvania and Kentucky. Peoples is committed to its customers, its employees, the environment, and to the regions it serves.

Cordia Media Contact:

Essential/Peoples Media Contact:

Jenny Disbrow

Nick Paradise

External Communications Manager

External Communications Manager

480.209.9727

Media Hotline: 1.877.325.3477

jenny,disbrow@CordiaEnergy.com

media@essential.co

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cordia-announces-financial-close-on-three-energy-systems-from-essential-utilities-in-allegheny-county-302048576.html

SOURCE Cordia

FAQ

What did Cordia announce?

Cordia announced the financial closing on the acquisition of three microgrids and district energy systems in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, from Essential Utilities, Inc.

What is the ticker symbol for Essential Utilities, Inc.?

The ticker symbol for Essential Utilities, Inc. is WTRG.

What is the value of the acquisition?

The acquisition closed at $165 million.

What are the three energy systems included in the agreement?

The three energy systems included in the agreement are the Pittsburgh International Airport Microgrid, the district energy system at Allegheny Health Network (AHN) – Wexford Hospital, and the Allegheny County District Energy System.

Who developed the energy systems?

The energy systems were developed by Essential subsidiary Peoples.

Essential Utilities, Inc.

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