Andersen Resigns From 3 Enron-Related Firms

Three energy companies affiliated with Enron said Monday that Andersen had resigned as their auditor because of independence concerns, in a sign that the beleaguered accounting firm is rapidly moving to distance itself from the bankrupt energy trader.

Natural gas pipeline operator Northern Border Partners said Andersen had resigned as its auditor as of Feb. 5, citing concerns over its ability to perform independently in light of recent events. Enron Northern Plains Natural Gas Co. and Pan Border Gas Co., which are wholly owned subsidiaries of Enron, are general partners in the Northern Border partnership.

Andersen also withdrew as auditor of Portland General Electric, a regional electric utility, and EOTT Energy Partners, a crude oil marketing and transportation firm. Both are Enron affiliates.