The electricity and gas M&A activity surpassed the exceptional momentum that had already built up and is continuing to gain speed in 2006. We are seeing a new era of 'blockbuster deals.' Companies are consolidating and extending their regional footprints to attain non-organic growth in a tight sector facing high fuel prices and security of supply concerns. We are also seeing greater involvement of financial players in the market with the rise of infrastructure funds creating a new asset class.

Manfred Wiegand