DEAL HIGHLIGHT ARTICLE

Quantum Leaps: How Quantum Capital Group's Acquisition of Caerus Assets Secures and Sustains Natural Gas Supplies

 

Written by Tazmyn Gounden, Head of Investor Research, Energy Council

Published 10 September 2024

Quantum Leaps

The global demand for natural gas is not only on an upward trajectory due to the shift from coal to cleaner-burning alternatives but also facing constraints from tight supplies. This dynamic is pressing companies to secure future natural gas supplies, a vital component for advancing a low-carbon economy. According to the International Energy Agency, global gas demand is projected to grow by 2.5% in 2024 (1). In response, the United States, which sourced over half of its electricity from natural gas last year, is seeing pivotal strategic investments to bolster energy security and sustainability.

Strategic Implications and Financial Accretion

Quantum Capital Group’s recent $1.8 billion acquisition of oil and gas assets from Caerus Oil and Gas highlights a strategic expansion in the energy sector, particularly emphasizing the potential of natural gas to support decarbonization objectives. This acquisition was tactfully carried out through Quantum’s subsidiaries, QB Energy and KODA Resources, which have taken charge of extensive natural gas reserves in the Piceance and Uinta Basins, respectively. QB Energy now oversees operations in the Piceance Basin, recognized for its vast natural gas deposits. Meanwhile, KODA Resources, has expanded its capabilities into the Uinta Basin. This strategic alignment allows Quantum to enhance its management of crucial energy resources and integrate its skilled workforce, ensuring operational continuity and smooth transition.

The acquisition significantly boosts Quantum's ability to meet the growing demand for natural gas, an essential component in the energy transition to lower carbon emissions. By managing these substantial reserves, Quantum not only strengthens its energy portfolio but also sets a framework for ongoing innovation and sustainable development in its operations. This move is set to position Quantum as a central player in supplying natural gas across the western United States, responding adeptly to the increasing energy demands in a dynamically shifting market.

Tom Field and Chuck Davidson, Partners at Quantum, emphasized that this acquisition aligns perfectly with the rising demand for natural gas while advancing sustainable and reliable energy solutions. They highlighted natural gas's essential role in the energy grid, pointing out its unique blend of sustainability, reliability, and affordability, which are crucial for the transition to a low-carbon economy. This strategic acquisition not only secures substantial natural gas resources but also integrates advanced environmental practices that contribute significantly to sustainable development.

This transaction represents a unique opportunity for Quantum to invest in substantial natural gas production alongside large, contiguous acreage positions containing sizable hydrocarbon resources with significant value creation potential. We believe that KODA and QB Energy are well positioned to steward the next phase of development and operation of the Assets to serve responsibly natural gas demand centers in the western U.S. while generating attractive returns for our investors

Tom Field

Partner, Quantum

Caerus Oil and Gas has notably advanced its commitment to reducing emissions and enhancing water management. Caerus has pioneered sandless fracks in over 500 wells, reducing truck and rail traffic and the environmental impact of traditional methods. Furthermore, Caerus has implemented methane reduction strategies, including aerial LiDAR surveys, ground-based leak detection, and replacing over 900 conventional heat trace pumps with solar units in 2023, minimizing emissions sources. Additionally, Caerus operates the largest water treatment facility in the western U.S., recycling 100% of produced water for fracking, minimizing environmental impact while maximizing profit. This commitment underscores Caerus' role as a leader in environmental stewardship within the energy sector. (4)

Join industry leaders such as Quantum Capital Group and Oaktree Capital Management, alongside over 50 other prominent investment firms, at the North American Energy Capital Assembly. As the most senior and influential finance and investment meeting for the North American E&P sector, this premier event is set for October 16 – 17, 2024. It offers unparalleled opportunities for high-level networking with active energy investors and in-depth discussions about the significant shifts reshaping the region’s energy landscape.

Don’t miss this essential opportunity to explore the dynamic landscape of energy finance and delve deep into the intricacies of the North American energy industry.

North America Energy Capital Assembly

October 16 - 17, 2024 | Houston

The most senior & influential finance and investment meeting for the North American E&P sector.

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