LEAWOOD, Kan. – Jan. 11, 2010 — Tortoise Energy Capital Corp. (NYSE: TYY), today announced the tax characterization of the 2009 distributions paid to stockholders which were comprised of 100 percent return of capital.

Additional information regarding the tax characterization of the 2009 distributions is available at www.tortoiseadvisors.com. A copy of the information is also available upon request by calling (866) 362-9331.

Nothing contained herein or therein should be construed as tax advice. Consult your tax advisor for more information. Furthermore, you may not rely upon any information herein or therein for the purpose of avoiding any penalties that may be imposed under the Internal Revenue Code.

About Tortoise Energy Capital Corp.

Tortoise Energy Capital Corp. provides financing for master limited partnerships (MLPs) in the energy infrastructure sector, focusing on crude oil and refined petroleum products MLPs and natural gas and natural gas liquids pipelines MLPs. Tortoise Energy Capital Corp. seeks to provide its stockholders a high level of total return with an emphasis on current distributions.

About Tortoise Capital Advisors, LLC

Tortoise is an investment manager specializing in listed energy infrastructure, such as pipeline and power companies. As of Dec. 31, 2009, Tortoise had approximately $2.8 billion of assets under management in five NYSE-listed investment companies and private accounts. For more information, visit our Web site at www.tortoiseadvisors.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer or solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the laws of such state or jurisdiction.

Contact information: Tortoise Capital Advisors, LLC Pam Kearney, Investor Relations, (866) 362-9331, pkearney@tortoiseadvisors.com