Time Warner Cable to acquire DukeNet Communications

Time Warner Cable Inc. (NYSE:TWC) says it has entered into a definitive agreement with Duke Energy Corporation (NYSE: DUK) and investment funds managed by Alinda Capital Partners to buy DukeNet Communications, LLC for $600 million in cash, including the repayment of debt.

DukeNet, based in Charlotte, N.C., is a regional fiber-optic network company serving customers in North Carolina and South Carolina, as well as five other states in the Southeast. With a fiber-optic network of over 8,700 miles, DukeNet provides data and high-capacity bandwidth services to wireless carrier, data center, government and enterprise customers. Duke Energy owns 50 percent of DukeNet. The Alinda investment funds own the remaining 50 percent.

"Business services is a key growth area for Time Warner Cable and this acquisition will greatly enhance our already growing fiber network to better serve customers, particularly those in key markets in the Carolinas," said Phil Meeks, executive vice president and COO of business services for Time Warner Cable. "This acquisition will help us expand our fiber footprint at a price that is consistent with our disciplined approach to M&A, accounting for expected synergies and tax benefits."

"This is a positive transaction for Duke Energy," said Marc Manly, president of Duke Energy's commercial business group. "The sale completes Duke Energy's transition out of DukeNet, which although a growing operation, is a non-core business to our company."

"We are pleased to have been co-owner of DukeNet and partner with Duke Energy through a very exciting time in the development of telecommunications infrastructure generally, and DukeNet's business specifically," said Alinda's managing partner, Chris Beale. "We believe DukeNet is well-positioned to continue its record of strong growth."

The transaction, which is expected to close in the first quarter of 2014, is subject to various customary closing conditions, including receipt of regulatory approvals.

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