Cogentrix Platform Consists of 11 Natural Gas-Fired Power Plants, Comprising 5.3 Gigawatts of Efficient and Reliable Capacity Across Key U.S. Markets
HOUSTON – August 5, 2024 – Quantum Capital Group and its affiliates (“Quantum”) announced an agreement to acquire Cogentrix Energy (“Cogentrix” or the “Company”), a U.S. independent power producer, from funds managed by Carlyle (NASDAQ: CG) for approximately $3 billion. The Cogentrix platform includes 5.3 gigawatts of natural gas-fired power plants located throughout PJM, ERCOT, and ISO-NE.
Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, Cogentrix has a history of acquiring, developing, constructing, operating, and optimizing conventional and renewable power generation assets across the U.S. Following the transaction close, the Company will continue to be led by current CEO John Ragan and the existing management team.
“We are at a critical juncture in the evolution of the domestic power market,” said Wil VanLoh, Founder and CEO of Quantum. “Electricity demand is rapidly increasing thanks to explosive growth in data centers and AI, reshoring of manufacturing, and electrification-of-everything.”
Michael MacDougall, Partner at Quantum, added: “We are thrilled to partner with the Cogentrix team. Having stewarded more than 18 gigawatts of assets over its 40+ year history... We expect to meaningfully grow the Cogentrix platform.”
Matt O’Connor from Carlyle’s Global Infrastructure team commented: “This is a win-win transaction for everyone involved as Cogentrix begins its next chapter with Quantum.”
Pooja Goyal from Carlyle added: “We are pleased to have supported Cogentrix’s efforts to establish decarbonization objectives for its fleet while continuing to support grid reliability.”
John Ragan expressed gratitude towards Carlyle's partnership: “As we look to the future... Quantum’s deep knowledge... will drive significant long-term value for our customers.”
Guggenheim served as Quantum’s financial advisor while King & Spalding and Vinson & Elkins provided legal advice. Lazard served as Carlyle’s financial advisor with Latham & Watkins as legal advisor.
The transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals and is expected to close between Q4 2024 and Q1 2025.
About Quantum Capital Group
Founded in 1998, Quantum provides private equity, credit, and venture capital to the global energy industry with over $27 billion in equity commitments since inception.
About Cogentrix
Founded in 1983, Cogentrix is an independent power producer with a track record in acquiring and managing power generation assets across the U.S.
About Carlyle
Carlyle (NASDAQ: CG) is a global investment firm managing $435 billion in assets as of June 30, 2024.
Contacts
Quantum Capital Group
Kate Thompson / Erik Carlson / Madeline Jones
Joele Frank Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher
212-355-4449
Carlyle
Brittany Berliner
(212) 813-4839
Brittany.Berliner@carlyle.com
