US investment firm KKR is exploring participation in Thames Water’s £3 billion share sale, according to Sky News, as part of a broader recapitalisation effort for Britain’s largest water utility.
Thames Water, currently managing significant challenges from sewage issues, aging infrastructure, and mounting debt, announced last month it had secured a provisional financing deal with creditors to sustain operations for at least another year. The utility serves approximately 16 million people in London and surrounding areas.
According to the report, KKR’s involvement hinges on regulatory approval from water regulator Ofwat, expected by January. However, one potential hurdle for KKR may be its existing 25% stake in Northumbrian Water, which would require a Competition and Markets Authority review under Ofwat’s mergers regime.
The UK government has remained on alert, prepared to take Thames Water into special administration if necessary, to prevent potential financial collapse.
Comments
Post a Comment