NSW kicks off US$10bn energy sale

摘要

New South Wales kicked off its eagerly awaited A$13bn (US$10bn) energy sale last week, with keen interest expected from Canadian and Australian pension funds, as well as Chinese state-owned enterprises. State treasurer Gladys Berejiklian said NSW would give potential bidders until July 14 to register interest in buying 49% of power transmission company transgrid. Combined with stakes in two state-owned electricity distribution networks - collectively known as "poles and wires" - the sale is expected to be Australia's biggest privatisation, and sets the scene for a major bridge loan that is likely to lead to a capital markets issue. "The poles and wires transaction will unlock A$20bn, which will be invested in new roads, rail, hospitals and schools, new sports and cultural facilities, and vital water infrastructure in our regions," Berejiklian said.