Latest News

Spanish government signals openness to TAQA's quote for Naturgy

Spain on Friday indicated it was open to a possible takeover bid of energy firm Naturgy by Abu Dhabi's TAQA, stating that while the federal government will protect its strategic interests that did not indicate it would obstruct the offer.

TAQA confirmed on Wednesday it remains in discussions with the 3 largest investors of Naturgy about a possible bid for the largest gas company in Spain.

Provided Naturgy's tactical role in the nation's energy system, the government by law need to have a say on such an offer.

I have actually mentioned the need to be watchful and guarantee energy security in defence of Spain's strategic interests, Energy Minister Teresa Ribera said when asked about the possible deal at an interview. This does not mean banning any business or financier.

Spain has currently revealed it has the mechanisms at hand to protect its interests when it approved Australian fund IFM's. partial takeover bid for Naturgy in 2021, Ribera stated. The. federal government imposed conditions to protect tasks, investment and. the supply of gas and electricity.

The control mechanisms or vigilant mechanisms for. financial investments from 3rd countries were triggered and some. conditions were introduced, and I think that it has actually worked. properly, she stated.

Last year, Spain faced a similar decision after Saudi. Arabia's STC purchased a 9.9% stake in telecoms operator. Telefonica. In December the government stated it would buy a stake. of as much as 10% in Telefonica as a counterbalance.

Ribera stated that the government will be keeping a close eye. on how these talks (over Naturgy) develop and, where. suitable, on the characteristics of the conditions under. which a non-EU financier can enter into the business's. assets.

Naturgy has a stake in a key gas pipeline between Spain and. Algeria. It also has a long-term agreement to import some 3. billion cubic metres