One of Stockport’s largest employers has made its first major overseas investment in buying a majority stake in an Australian energy company.
OCU Group has acquired shares in All Energy Contracting (AEC), a Brisbane-based firm that provides clean energy infrastructure services for schemes in both Australia and New Zealand.
Although financial details have not been released, AEC will keep its branding, while its management team will also stay in place.
“This investment represents a measured first step in our international journey,” said OCU’s CEO, Michael Hughes. “AEC has built a strong reputation in energy infrastructure, and the alignment of values and ambition between our teams makes this a natural fit.
“A number of our energy transition clients operate internationally and have asked whether OCU can support them beyond the UK.
“We are already pursuing opportunities in Australia with several of these clients, creating further growth potential for AEC.
“Together, we have the opportunity to deliver greater impact across Australia’s energy transition landscape.”
The founder of AEC, Steve Urquhart, said, “Partnering with OCU Group is a significant new chapter for us.
“Their strength, in depth clear focus on energy transition, and commitment to people and systems development will support our long-term growth.
“We see strong cultural alignment and look forward to shared learning across both teams.”
Tim and Tom O’Connor founded OCU in 1994, but the brothers sold the firm for around £400million to private equity group Triton Partners in 2022.
AEC is the group’s first acquisition of 2025 after snapping up McCormack Drilling, water treatment specialists Purestream Industries, and utilities contractor Nettworx last year.
