EIG Forms Independent Asset Management Firm

WASHINGTON, January 4, 2011 /PRNewswire/ --

- Formerly part of TCW, group that is leading institutional provider of capital to the energy sector completes consensual divestiture into new company

EIG Global Energy Partners, LLC (EIG), formerly the Energy & Infrastructure Group at Trust Company of the West (TCW), today announced its separation from TCW to become an independent investor to the global energy sector. EIG commences operations as an independent firm with more than $8.5 billion under management continuing its role as one of the leading specialist investors in energy and energy-related infrastructure projects and companies on a global basis.

"EIG is proud to have what we believe to be the longest continuous track-record of any institutional investor in energy and we're pleased that we can now continue that record as an independent firm. We pride ourselves on being a niche investor and our spin-out will enhance our ability to maintain our singular focus on investing in the sector without the distractions of being part of a larger financial institution," said CEO R. Blair Thomas. "The demand for capital in the sector is huge and we believe we are uniquely positioned to capture the opportunities this demand creates due to our global platform, track record, and ability to invest in all aspects of the energy value chain."

EIG specializes in private investments in energy and has 38 investment professionals solely dedicated to the sector, many with industry or technical backgrounds. During its 29-year history, EIG has invested over $11 billion in the sector in 32 countries on 6 continents. EIG's clients include many of the leading pension plans, insurance companies, endowments, foundations, and sovereign wealth funds in the US, Asia and Europe.

EIG is headquartered in Washington, DC, with offices in Houston, New York, London, and Sydney.

For more information, visit http://www.eigpartners.com or contact Jessica Emond at +1-202-778-1094.