Sempra U.S. Gas & Power, a subsidiary of Sempra Energy (NYSE: SRE), today announced that it has agreed to purchase Hattiesburg, Miss.-based Willmut Gas & Oil Company (Willmut). The terms of the deal were not disclosed.

The privately-held natural gas utility provides service to about 20,000 customers in greater Hattiesburg as well as portions of Covington, Jones, Rankin and Simpson Counties, and has operated for more than 75 years.

The acquisition expands Sempra U.S. Gas & Power's growing natural gas footprint in the Southeast U.S. The company owns Mobile Gas, a natural gas distribution utility that serves approximately 90,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers in Mobile, Ala., along with several natural gas storage and pipeline assets in Mississippi, Louisiana, and Alabama.

"Against the backdrop of increased demand for clean natural gas, we are excited to provide exceptional service to Willmut customers in this fast-growing region," said Jeffrey W. Martin, president and chief executive officer of Sempra U.S. Gas & Power. "Mississippi is a great place for business and we're pleased to have the opportunity to expand our presence in the state. We understand the importance energy plays in a growing economy and we stand ready to work with customers on innovative solutions for their homes and businesses."

The transaction requires approval by the Mississippi Public Service Commission.