U.S. energy company Cleco Corp.'s business risk profile has strengthened due to reduced merchant power exposure and constructive regulatory outcomes while its financial performance has continued to improve. We are affirming the 'BBB' corporate credit rating on Cleco Corp. (Cleco) and its subsidiary, Cleco Power LLC (Cleco Power), and we are revising the outlook to positive from stable. The positive outlook on both entities reflects the potential for higher ratings over the next 12 to 18 months if the company is able to maintain its excellent business risk profile while continuing to improve its credit protection metrics. On Aug. 24, 2012, Standard&Poor's Ratings Services affirmed its 'BBB' corporate credit rating on Cleco Corp. (Cleco) and subsidiary Cleco Power
