UPDATE: Meridian posts record 1H operating earnings, raises dividend

UPDATE: Meridian posts record 1H operating earnings, raises dividend
Gavin Evans
(Adds segment earnings from 8th paragraph.)  By Gavin Evans Feb. 20 (BusinessDesk) - Meridian Energy reported a 39 percent increase in first-half profit, boosted by improved generation and sustained high prices in October and November. The country’s biggest power generator had a net profit of $152 million in the six months through December, from $109 million a year earlier. Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, amortisation and changes in financial instruments rose 18 percent to a record $389 million, from $329 million a year ea...