Joint Statement from the Governor and Secretary: Proposed Cleco Transaction

BATON ROUGE, La. – Governor Jeff Landry and Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois issued the following joint statement regarding the announced agreement involving Cleco:

“This announcement reflects the kind of investment Louisiana is working to attract and sustain—one that strengthens our energy infrastructure, supports high-quality jobs and keeps critical operations rooted here at home. We are especially encouraged by the leadership of Bernhard Capital Partners, a firm with deep Louisiana roots and a long-standing track record of investing in the people, companies, and communities that drive our state forward.

Having a partner that understands Louisiana—its workforce, its industries and its opportunities—makes a meaningful difference. Bernhard’s continued commitment to investing here, alongside Stonepeak’s global expertise, positions this partnership for long-term success while ensuring Louisiana remains central to that growth.

Reliable, affordable energy is essential to economic development, and strong utility partners like Cleco are critical to helping Louisiana compete and win. If approved, this investment would strengthen that foundation, support Cleco’s continued role as a key energy provider and reinforce the momentum we’ve built over the past two years.

We are grateful for partners like Bernhard and Cleco who continue investing in Louisiana’s future and helping create opportunity across our state.”

Read the full announcement