AES Ohio's parent company is up for sale, with investors ready to pay a hefty $33 billion. The deal, which values the company at $15 per share, is set to be led by a consortium of investors, including Global Infrastructure Partners and the EQT Infrastructure VI fund. This group is backed by the influential BlackRock and Qatar Investment Authority, with the California Public Employees’ Retirement System as a co-underwriter. The transaction aims to enhance AES's long-term growth prospects, particularly in regulated electric utilities and competitive clean energy sectors in the U.S. and Latin America. The deal is a significant development, especially given the recent surge in energy prices, which has left customers frustrated. The acquisition could potentially lead to higher heating bills, as data centers are known to drive up regional electric costs. This move also raises questions about the future of AES Ohio, which serves approximately 527,000 customer accounts in West Central Ohio. The company's history dates back to 2011 when it merged with DPL Inc., a 100-year-old Dayton-based utility. The merger transformed DPL into a wholly-owned subsidiary of AES, a Fortune 200 company with a global presence. The current deal marks a pivotal moment for AES Ohio, as it seeks to maximize value for its shareholders and secure its long-term success.
