The German HEW will pay DM 2.9 billion to acquire the majority stakes in the energy group VEAG and in the Laubag coal supplier, with as aim to give rise to the fourth largest German energy group. The Swedish VATTENFALL, parent company of HEW, could become the majority shareholder in the new entity, which will be launched in January 2003. The American MIRANT could also hold a stake of 25 to 40 %.