In November, the Netherlands' so-called Unbundling Act - the purpose of which was to force Dutch energy companies to separate their network activities from their commercial activities - was passed by the First Chamber of Parliament. However, the unbundling provisions were to be effectuated only if Dutch energy companies were to enter into foreign activities, jeopardizing the independent management of the gas and electricity networks. Not long thereafter, Dutch energy company Delta acquired a participating interest in Belgian waste disposal company Indaver, while Essent and Nuon contemplated a merger with the intention to enter into a joint venture with a foreign energy company.