“The company continued to develop according to expectations during the third quarter and we are very satisfied with the operational and financial performance of the business,” says chief executive Henrik Poulsen.

Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (Ebitda) reached DKK14.8bn in the first nine months, up from DKK13bn in the same period last year.

“Operating profits are up by 14% year-to-date, making Dong one of the few European energy groups to be on a growth path.