AusNet Services has abruptly kicked out suitor APA Group from its data room after signing a takeover agreement with Canadian asset manager Brookfield, as the electricity network operator moves to shore up the $17.8 billion deal.

AusNet’s board and its major shareholder, Singapore Power, which holds a 32.74 per cent stake, have backed the deal with Brookfield after the asset manager increased its all-cash offer by 15¢ per share to $2.65 for the ASX-listed company over the weekend.