Sempra Energy (NYSE: SRE) announced that, as part of its increasing focus on North American markets, Sempra Energy is initiating the process to sell its equity interests in its South American businesses, including Luz del Sur S.A.A. (BVL:LUSURC1) in Peru and Chilquinta Energia SA in Chile. "We have set a clear strategic goal of becoming North America's premier energy infrastructure company," said Jeffrey W. Martin, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sempra Energy. "This planned sale allows us more focused capital investment in the U.S. and Mexico to support additional growth opportunities, with a view toward creating greater shareholder value and a stronger balance sheet.

The planned sale includes Sempra Energy's 100% stake in Chilquinta Energia and 83.6% stake in Luz del Sur S.A.A, as well as Sempra Energy's interests in TECNORED Electrical Materials and Tecsur S.A., which provide electric construction and infrastructure services to Chilquinta Energia and Luz del Sur, respectively. Sempra Energy expects the planned sales process to be completed by the end of 2019.