mumbai, Nov. 13 -- Global private equity firm Blackstone is emerging as the frontrunner to acquire renewable energy platform BluPine Energy from UK-based Actis in a deal that could value the company at $1.7-1.8 billion, three people with direct knowledge of the matter said. "Blackstone seems to be leading the talks and may soon enter exclusivity," said one of the people cited above. Blackstone is competing closely with Brookfield and INOX Clean Energy, to acquire BluPine, the people said. Mint was the first to report private equity and strategic investor interest in the deal, including that of Blackstone, on 18 August. Blackstone and Actis spokespersons declined to comment. Emails sent to INOX did not elicit a response till the time of publ...