BIL Corporate Finance supported John Cockerill in a strategic acquisition financing in China

BIL Corporate Finance supported John Cockerill in a strategic acquisition financing of 44% of Cockerill Jingli Hydrogen in China. This financing supports John Cockerill’s ambitious hydrogen development strategy, specifically in China and the broader region.

John Cockerill has completed the purchase of 100% of Cockerill Jingli Hydrogen in China (previously held at 56%). Cockerill Jingli Hydrogen was in 2021 the largest hydrogen electrolyzer manufacturer in the world, with 33% of volumes installed (by megawatts). This acquisition consolidates John Cockerill’s leadership position in the hydrogen sector.

John Cockerill, a world player in the energy transition
With the strength of more than 200 years of experience in energy and industry the Group is today developing innovative technological solutions which contribute to the decarbonization of human activities, whether by developing new electricity production capacities from renewable sources, storing green electricity or optimizing the electricity output of existing electric power plants and industrial installations. It adapts its technologies and expertise – heat recuperation boilers for combined cycle gas-steam electric power plant, units for the production, storage and distribution of green hydrogen, receivers for thermo-solar concentration power plants, integrated units for the production, storage and management of green electricity, industrial boilers, wind turbine and hydroelectric installation maintenance, nuclear pipe-work, the automation of industrial processes – to the specific needs of its clients in the industrial and energy domains. John Cockerill is thus providing its technological contribution to the fight against climate change. In 2021 it achieved turnover of 947 billion Euros in 19 countries across 5 continents.

BIL Corporate Finance, expertise across capital structure
BIL Corporate Finance provides a unique offer combining lending and financial advisory services, to entrepreneurs and corporates in support of their strategic transactions.

Our team of Corporate Finance experts delivers tailor-made solutions across the capital structure (senior-junior debt, quasi-equity, equity). We bring a wealth of experience in various projects, sectors and geographies, covering the Benelux, Switzerland, France, Germany and Greater China.

A strong cooperation for an international acquisition financing
Frédéric Cassani, Julien Ruggeri and Haofeng Lu (BIL Corporate Finance) said: " In the hydrogen sector undergoing significant development moves, we are delighted to have been able to support John Cockerill group to complete the purchase of 100% of Cockerill Jingli Hydrogen in China. It was a pleasure to accompany a high quality management team and to carry out this financing for this Euro-Chinese transaction.”

Yves Honhon, John Cockerill group CFO said: “The finalization of this acquisition financing in a short period of time is an example of contructive and efficient cooperation between our team and BIL Corporate Finance.”