What Next for European Power Utilities?

Abstract

The European electricity sector has experienced significant consolidation over the last 10 years, but the era of mega-mergers is coming to an end. This chapter explores the main industry drivers behind the next wave of acquisitions, the implications for the super-utilities and the opportunities and challenges created. Unlike the consolidations of the past decade, the transactions over the next 10 years are likely to be shaped by rising oil prices, increasing environmental awareness, an increasing focus on unbundling of tariffs and ultimately assets, the emergence of financial asset owners and increasing nationalisation. The chapter explores how each of these factors poses challenges but also creates opportunities that will shape the strategies of all super-utilities in Europe.