Greek authorities have started assessing the
technical aspects of the two bids for a stake in natural gas network
operator DESFA, while the financial offers will be opened on March 9.
All signs point to the price for 66 percent of DESFA topping 400
million euros, although that will also depend on the company’s cash
reserves when the transaction is completed.
The preferred bidder will have to make investments of 1.5 billion
euros through 2026, a factor that favors the consortium comprising SNAM,
Fluxys and Enagas, whose assets exceed 9.6 billion euros, while between
them they recorded earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and
amortization (EBITDA) of 3.25 billion euros in 2016.
On the other hand, the assets and operating profits of the two
companies in the second consortium, Reganosa and Transgaz, are less than
a tenth of their bidding rivals. Their assets only add up to 930
million euros and their operating profits to 240 million euros.
However, Reganosa and Transgaz have the financial backing of the
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), which is
theoretically indefinite: The EBRD’s stake in the consortium amounts to
28 percent and is of a clear investment character, possibly aimed at
rivaling the other consortium.
(www.ekathimerini.com)