Spire completes acquisition of MoGas and Omega pipeline systems

Rhea-AI Summary

Spire Inc. (SR) has completed the acquisition of MoGas Pipeline and Omega Pipeline from CorEnergy Infrastructure Trust, Inc. for $175 million. The acquisition will enhance Spire's midstream infrastructure, including Spire Storage and Spire STL Pipeline. Spire MoGas Pipeline LLC will operate under the new legal name after the acquisition. The acquisition will further enhance Spire's ability to serve customers in Missouri, including utility, municipal, industrial, and commercial customers.

Energy Sector Analyst

The acquisition of MoGas Pipeline and Omega Pipeline by Spire Inc. represents a strategic expansion of the company's midstream infrastructure, which is crucial for transporting natural gas from production sites to end-users. This move is likely to enhance Spire's competitive position in the natural gas market, particularly in Missouri, by improving its capacity and reach. As midstream operations are essential for the energy sector's value chain, this acquisition could lead to operational synergies and cost savings. By integrating these pipelines, Spire may achieve a more streamlined operation, potentially reducing transportation costs and improving supply reliability for customers.

Furthermore, the regulatory aspect, with MoGas being overseen by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), ensures compliance with federal standards, which can be beneficial for stable operations. The interconnections with other interstate pipelines denote an improved network that can lead to a more robust and resilient infrastructure. This could be particularly advantageous in scenarios of high demand or supply disruptions.

The financial aspect of the deal, at $175 million, must be evaluated in terms of return on investment and how it aligns with Spire's long-term financial strategy. Investors should monitor the company's future financial statements for indications of the acquisition's performance relative to cost, including potential impacts on Spire's earnings and cash flow.

Market Research Analyst

From a market perspective, the acquisition could be seen as an indicator of Spire's confidence in the future demand for natural gas in the regions served by MoGas and Omega. The reference to the growing customer base in specific counties suggests a targeted approach to market expansion. Additionally, the mention of serving various types of customers, including utility, municipal, industrial and commercial clients, reflects a diverse revenue stream which could mitigate risks associated with market fluctuations.

It's also important to consider the potential impact on the broader natural gas market in terms of supply dynamics. With increased infrastructure, Spire could potentially exert more influence on regional gas prices and availability. This could have implications for competitors and might trigger further consolidation in the industry as other companies seek to maintain or improve their market positions.

Financial Analyst

The transaction's price point of $175 million necessitates an analysis of Spire's balance sheet and the deal's financing structure. The cost must be weighed against the expected incremental cash flows from the acquired assets. Investors should look for the acquisition's impact on Spire's debt levels, interest coverage ratios and whether the company has used equity financing, which could dilute existing shareholders' value. The 'customary closing adjustments' mentioned may also have financial implications that should be scrutinized in subsequent quarterly reports.

Additionally, the long-term benefits of the acquisition should be measured against the backdrop of the natural gas industry's volatility and the transition to renewable energy. While the current investment may provide short-term gains in market share and revenue, the company's strategy must also align with evolving regulatory and environmental standards that could affect the future profitability of natural gas assets.

Businesses join Spire's existing midstream infrastructure.

ST. LOUIS, Jan. 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Spire Inc. (NYSE: SR) today announced it has completed its acquisition of MoGas Pipeline (MoGas), an interstate natural gas pipeline, and Omega Pipeline (Omega), a connected gas distribution system, from CorEnergy Infrastructure Trust, Inc. (OTC: CORR, CORRL).

The acquisition was completed for $175 million, subject to customary closing adjustments. The businesses will join Spire’s existing midstream infrastructure, including Spire Storage and Spire STL Pipeline. As a result of the acquisition, MoGas will operate under the new legal name Spire MoGas Pipeline LLC.

"Spire MoGas and Omega are ideal fits with our existing businesses and will further enhance our ability to serve customers in Missouri," said Steve Lindsey, Spire president and chief executive officer.

Spire MoGas Pipeline consists of approximately 263 miles of interstate natural gas pipelines, primarily in Missouri, and interconnects with Spire STL Pipeline to deliver gas to Spire Missouri's growing customer base in St. Charles, Franklin and western St. Louis counties, among other utility, municipal, industrial and commercial customers. Spire MoGas Pipeline also interconnects with three other interstate pipelines and is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

Omega Pipeline is an approximately 75-mile natural gas distribution system primarily serving Fort Leonard Wood Army Base in south-central Missouri and is interconnected with the Spire MoGas Pipeline system.

For more about Spire's midstream business, visit spireenergy.com/midstream.

About Spire
At Spire Inc. (NYSE: SR) we believe energy exists to help make people's lives better. It's a simple idea, but one that's at the heart of our company. Every day we serve 1.7 million homes and businesses making us one of the largest publicly traded natural gas companies in the country. We help families and business owners fuel their daily lives through our gas utilities serving Alabama, Mississippi and Missouri. Our natural gas-related businesses include Spire Marketing and Spire Midstream. We are committed to transforming our business through growing organically, investing in infrastructure, and advancing through innovation. Learn more at SpireEnergy.com.

Investor Contact:
Megan McPhail
314-309-6563 
Megan.McPhail@SpireEnergy.com  

Media Contact:
Jason Merrill
314-342-3300
Jason.Merrill@SpireEnergy.com

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SOURCE Spire Inc.

What businesses did Spire Inc. acquire?

Spire Inc. acquired MoGas Pipeline and Omega Pipeline from CorEnergy Infrastructure Trust, Inc.

What is the ticker symbol for Spire Inc.?

The ticker symbol for Spire Inc. is SR.

How much was the acquisition completed for?

The acquisition was completed for $175 million, subject to customary closing adjustments.

What are the existing midstream infrastructure of Spire Inc.?

Spire's existing midstream infrastructure includes Spire Storage and Spire STL Pipeline.

What is the new legal name for Spire MoGas Pipeline after the acquisition?

Spire MoGas Pipeline LLC will operate under the new legal name after the acquisition.