Press releases pg. 48

The ČEZ Supervisory Board has approved the cancellation of the Stock Option Program for ČEZ management and has replaced it with a new, stricter system of long-term performance bonuses for members of the Board of Directors. This change was initiated by the Supervisory Board itself one year ago after its new members took up their offices. The new program of long-term performance bonuses improves the consistency of the interests of beneficiaries and shareholders and is linked to stock price, dividend distribution and performance of the company. Thus beneficiaries will, in the long run, participate in the growth or decline of shareholder value. The new system starts 1 .1. 2020.

CEZ Group’s net income rose by 49% to CZK 13.6 billion for the first three quarters of 2019, and its EBITDA reached CZK 44.7 billion, recording a 16% year-over-year growth. These increases can be attributed in particular to growing electricity selling prices and higher profits from commodity trading. Net income after extraordinary items reached CZK 14.7 billion.

INVEN CAPITAL, the CEZ Group’s investment fund that seeks out promising projects on the European energy start-up market, has acquired a minority share in German innovation company Zolar. This company provides digital solutions for rooftop photovoltaic installations and combined photovoltaic and battery systems. In addition to Inven Capital, BayWa r.e. Energy Ventures participated in this round of investment with a total volume of EUR 10 million. The existing investors Heartcore Ventures, Statkraft Ventures and Partech Ventures likewise increased their shares.

Today, CEZ officially launched the divestment process in Romania. The interest confirmed in writing by the potential investors will be followed by an invitation to submit non-binding offer. CEZ is considering selling seven companies in Romania, keeping only those engaged in energy services (ESCO) activities and part of trading. These steps are in line with CEZ Group's new strategy.