Ardian signs agreement to sell ASR Wind to Naturgy

Ardian

The sold portfolio includes 12 wind farms with an installed capacity of 422 MW, spread throughout Spain.
• The portfolio also includes a hybrid photovoltaic farm of 435 MW developed by AGR-AM, a renewable asset manager operating exclusively for Ardian in Spain and Latin America.
• The transaction is expected to be completed by the end of July, subject to Naturgy receiving approval from relevant authorities.

Ardian, a world-leading private investment house, has agreed to sell ASR Wind, a portfolio of 12 wind farms, to Naturgy, the Spanish renewable energy group. The wind farms are in different regions across Spain. Commissioned between 2005 and 2012, the farms have an installed capacity of 422 MW.

Ardian has used the ASR Wind platform to manage other renewable energy projects in Spain and Italy, totaling 1GW, which were excluded from this transaction.

Ardian acquired 95% of the ASR Wind portfolio in 2019, representing the first investment of its fifth-generation fund, Ardian Infrastructure Fund V. The remaining percentage is held by Exus Management Partners, which will also exit the company’s ownership following the transaction.

“This transaction marks a milestone moment for Ardian’s Infrastructure strategy. Our team is now a pioneer in Spain in developing wind-solar hybrid systems, optimizing their production capacity and improving their industrial value. The attractiveness of this type of asset has also been demonstrated by the strong interest it has received in the market. Furthermore, we will continue to develop our remaining 1GW portfolio with AGR-AM and continue to create value.” Juan Angoitia, Co-Head of Infrastructure Europe, Ardian

The closing of the transaction is scheduled for the end of July, once Naturgy has completed the competition procedures required by the authorities.

Commitment to Spain

Alongside the management of wind farms, the company is driving several other value-creating initiatives, including the hybridization of wind assets with solar photovoltaic power generation systems led by AGR-AM, the renewable asset manager dedicated exclusively to Ardian’s portfolio in Spain and Latin America.

The hybridization of wind assets with solar photovoltaic production systems is particularly noteworthy. The 435 MW of hybrid photovoltaic farms included in the sale are currently being developed as part of a pioneering project in Spain, maximizing the quality of connection points and stabilizing the energy production of the assets once hybridized.

Participants

  • ARDIAN

    • Financial advisors: Santander CIB and BBVA CIB
    • Legal advisor: Clifford Chance

ABOUT ARDIAN

Ardian is a world-leading private investment house, managing or advising $150bn of assets on behalf of more than 1,400 clients globally. Our broad expertise, spanning Private Equity, Real Assets and Credit, enables us to offer a wide range of investment opportunities and respond flexibly to our clients’ differing needs. Through Ardian Customized Solutions we create bespoke portfolios that allow institutional clients to specify the precise mix of assets they require and to gain access to funds managed by leading third-party sponsors. Private Wealth Solutions offers dedicated services and access solutions for private banks, family offices and private institutional investors worldwide. Ardian is majority-owned by its employees and places great emphasis on developing its people and fostering a collaborative culture based on collective intelligence. Our 1,050+ employees, spread across 16 offices in Europe, the Americas, Asia and Middle East are strongly committed to the principles of Responsible Investment and are determined to make finance a force for good in society. Our goal is to deliver excellent investment performance combined with high ethical standards and social responsibility.
At Ardian we invest all of ourselves in building companies that last

Press contact

ARDIAN

 

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Sustainable Use of Electric Vehicle Batteries – Voltfang Secures €5 Million Financing

Helen Ventures

Voltfang, the clean-tech startup for energy storage from second-life electric vehicle batteries, has secured €5 million in new capital to scale its production. The consortium is led by the lead investor PT1 – PropTech1 Ventures. Other investors include Helen Ventures, Aurum Impact, Eviny, and the existing investor AENU.

Helen Ventures has been following the fast-growing trend of batteries closely over the past years. “We are excited about our investment in Voltfang. It is evident that a huge uptake of batteries is underway in the electricity system, and it is also evident that second-life batteries will be an important part of this in solving sustainability and cost hurdles,” says Mikael Myllymäki, Vice President and Head of Helen Ventures. “We are very impressed by the agility and customer-focus of the Voltfang team as they have brought their solution to market. It is a privilege to join supporting the team together with such a quality group of investors.”

Voltfang provides a solution to both the battery recycling problem and the energy transition with its high-quality energy storage systems made from used electric vehicle batteries. The Aachen-based startup enables the reuse of EV batteries through a specially developed AI-based software that evaluates battery longevity. “We give the battery a second life in stationary operations. With the help of our operating systems and continuous monitoring, we can make our batteries just as durable as new batteries. We guarantee this with our 10-year Batteryflat,” says David Oudsandji, Co-CEO of Voltfang. The company has already conducted several successful pilot projects in Germany and has won major customers such as ALDI Nord and Schaltbau.

“In ten years, there will be no new batteries in the commercial sector,” says Roman Alberti, Co-CEO of Voltfang. This is not only about the sustainable recycling of batteries but also about saving on material imports and, above all, costs. “With the help of our energy management system, our storage systems can be intelligently deployed, allowing the battery to be amortized as quickly as possible,” explains Roman Alberti.

“We can connect urgently needed capacities to the grid in the coming years to ensure grid stability. This is not only an advantage for our customers but for anyone who wants to avoid blackouts,” explains Afshin Doostdar, CTO of Voltfang. “The grids are not designed for the energy transition. Electric mobility, heat pumps, and fluctuating renewable energies require cost-effective and sustainable intermediate storage solutions that can be deployed in the short term. With our energy storage systems, we achieve this and reach a milestone in addressing the fundamental challenges of the energy transition.”

Voltfang was founded in 2021 and has already brought a certified and market-ready product to market. As a spin-off from RWTH Aachen, the startup now employs 50 people and operates a production site in Aachen. Voltfang aims to deliver more than 40 MWh of storage capacity in its products by the end of 2024.

Fabian Heilemann (AENU): “Stationary battery storage systems will play a central role in the energy system of the future by aligning electricity generation and consumption over time. Since Voltfang’s energy storage systems are made from reused electric vehicle batteries, they not only contribute to the energy transition but also reduce dependence on and consumption of resources compared to the production of new batteries. With their academic and practical expertise, the Voltfang team has the optimal DNA to build a European champion in the field of second-life batteries.”

Niko Samios (PT1): “There is no question that the market opportunity for energy storage will be enormous in the coming years. Sustainable energy production is becoming increasingly affordable, but it needs to be stored somewhere due to the grid structure, and decentralization is the best approach. Future regulatory requirements will further emphasize this process. Voltfang offers the most interesting product in this field that we have seen because they combine a cost advantage with a sustainability bonus.”

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DIF Capital Partners acquires leading Canadian geothermal company Diverso

DIF

DIF Capital Partners (“DIF”) is pleased to announce that it has signed an agreement to acquire a majority interest in Diverso Energy Inc. (“Diverso”), a leading developer, owner, and operator of geothermal energy systems in Canada. DIF’s investment will be executed through its DIF Infrastructure VII fund. DIF will acquire a 75% interest directly from the founders who will retain the remaining ownership and continue to lead the company.

Founded in 2015, Diverso offers a geothermal heating and cooling solutions for multi-unit residential and commercial projects under an Energy-as-a-Service (“EaaS”) model with long-term contracts. The acquisition will enable Diverso to continue its growth and execute on its growing pipeline of geothermal projects in Canada.

Diverso’s ground source energy systems typically reduce the carbon intensity of a building by 80% by removing traditional gas boilers. The company estimates its developed and pipeline projects will eliminate over 30,000 tons of CO2 annually. Geothermal systems are expected to contribute to Canada’s target to reduce carbon emissions by 40% by 2030 and net-zero by 2050. Supportive regulatory policies such as the clean technology investment tax credit for geothermal, regulations requiring stringent reductions of carbon intensity and improvements to energy efficiency in building design and increasing federal carbon taxes position Diverso strongly to achieve its targets.

This investment will provide immediate and long-term benefits to Diverso Energy and our clients” said Tim Weber, CEO of Diverso. “We are extremely proud of what our team has accomplished since our inception in 2015. With our new partnership and the immediate demand for low carbon building solutions, we are well positioned to enhance our operations and grow our position as market leaders as the industry accelerates the adoption of geothermal solutions.”

“Diverso provides a technical solution that is sustainable and significantly improves energy efficiency of buildings. We believe geothermal heating and cooling for residential and commercial properties will play an important role in the overall decarbonization of the Canadian economy” said Gijs Voskuyl, Partner and Head of Infrastructure at DIF Capital Partners. “This investment continues to build upon DIF’s long standing build to core strategy and commitment to reducing greenhouse gases globally. We look forward to the partnership with the Diverso management team in expanding its presence as a leading Canadian geothermal company in an industry supported by strong regulatory tail winds.”

 

About DIF Capital Partners

DIF Capital Partners is an independent infrastructure fund manager, with ca. EUR 16 billion of AUM. DIF was founded in 2005 and has built a leading position in managing mid-market investments, primarily in Europe, North America and Australia.

DIF follows two strategies: its traditional DIF funds invest in lower risk mid-sized infrastructure projects and companies in the energy transition (incl. renewables) and utilities sector, as well as PPPs and concessions. The firm’s CIF funds invest in small to mid-sized companies that will thrive in the new economy. These companies are typically active in the digital, energy transition and sustainable transportation sector.

With a team of over 225 professionals in 11 offices, DIF Capital Partners offers a unique market approach combining global presence with the benefits of strong local networks and investment capabilities. DIF is located in Amsterdam (Schiphol), Frankfurt, Helsinki, London, Luxembourg, Madrid, New York, Paris, Santiago, Sydney and Toronto.

For more information, please visit www.dif.eu

 

About Diverso

Diverso offers a unique geothermal EaaS model for multi-family, office and institutional buildings. Diverso designs, builds, owns and operates the geothermal system allowing clients to leverage the benefits of geothermal without the financial or operating risks associated with the technology. The Diverso ownership team has worked with hundreds of clients many in high density urban environments. Their combination of financial and technical solutions are expediting the transition from fossil fuels to electric buildings.

For more information, please visit www.diversoenergy.com

 

Contact DIF Capital Partners:

Renate Klöters, Director Marketing & Communications

r.kloters@dif.eu

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SunPower Secures $550M Loan Purchase Commitment From KKR

KKR

RICHMOND, Calif.May 3, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — SunPower (NASDAQ:SPWR), a leading residential solar technology and energy services provider, and KKR (NYSE: KKR), a leading global investment firm, today announced that they have signed a definitive agreement under which credit funds and accounts managed by KKR will commit to purchasing $550 million of solar energy loans made to SunPower customers.  This transaction, which is subject to customary post-closing conditions, will support SunPower Financial’s continued ability to offer attractive loan options to its customers.

“With the closing of this transaction, we have raised sufficient capital year-to-date to fund a total of $1 billion of incremental solar loans for SunPower’s customers.  As demand continues to rise, we expect this additional capital will power our loan bookings volume into 2024 and enable SunPower to increase access to the benefits of solar for more homeowners” said Guthrie Dundas, interim CFO of SunPower.

“Residential solar is a key area of focus for our Asset-Based Finance business,” said Avi Korn, Managing Director at KKR. “We look forward to supporting one of the industry’s leading platforms to provide solar and energy services through this transaction.”

SunPower launched SunPower Financial™ in 2021 to help make switching to solar even easier. With SunPower Financial, SunPower offers a seamless solution for purchasing solar and other home energy services through a single provider, including design, sales, installation, warranty and financing. In 2022, SunPower’s loan business grew 99% year-over-year.

About SunPower  
SunPower is a leading solar and energy services provider in North America. SunPower offers solar + storage solutions designed and warranted by one company that give customers control over electricity consumption and resiliency during power outages while providing cost savings. For more information, visit www.sunpower.com.

About KKR
KKR is a leading global investment firm that offers alternative asset management as well as capital markets and insurance solutions. KKR aims to generate attractive investment returns by following a patient and disciplined investment approach, employing world-class people and supporting growth in its portfolio companies and communities. KKR sponsors investment funds that invest in private equity, credit and real assets and has strategic partners that manage hedge funds. KKR’s insurance subsidiaries offer retirement, life and reinsurance products under the management of Global Atlantic Financial Group. References to KKR’s investments may include the activities of its sponsored funds and insurance subsidiaries. For additional information about KKR & Co. Inc. (NYSE: KKR), please visit KKR’s website at www.kkr.com and on Twitter @KKR_Co.

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including, but not limited to, statements regarding expected business plans, customer financing offerings and capabilities, expected demand and our ability to meet it, and cost savings. These forward-looking statements are based on our current assumptions, expectations, and beliefs and involve substantial risks and uncertainties that may cause results to materially differ from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, regulatory changes and the availability of economic incentives promoting use of solar energy and fluctuations or declines in the performance of our solar panels and other products and solutions. A detailed discussion of these factors and other risks that affect our business is included in filings we make with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) from time to time, including our most recent report on Form 10-K, particularly under the heading “Risk Factors.” Copies of these filings are available online from the SEC or on the SEC Filings section of our Investor Relations website at investors.sunpowercorp.com. All forward-looking statements in this press release are based on information currently available to us, and we assume no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in light of new information or future events.

SOURCE SunPower Corp.

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Virta closes €85M funding to increase EVs’ impact on energy flexibility markets and accelerate growth in Europe and Asia-Pacific

Helen Ventures

Finland-based Virta Ltd, a global leader of the fast-growing Electric Vehicle charging platforms industry*, has secured new €85M growth funding. The funding round is among the biggest in the sector during recent years. The sum consists of €65M equity investment from Virta’s existing investors, led by the private equity firm, Jolt Capital, and co-invested by Future Energy Ventures backed by E.ON., Helen Ventures, Vertex Growth Fund, Finnish Industry Investment, Lahti Energy, Vantaa Energy, and Kotka Energy. 20 million euros will be received from Business Finland, which offers innovation funding for companies and research organizations.

Over 1 000 professional EV charging businesses in 35 countries run their EV charging services on Virta platform. Together, these charging network operators constitute one of the biggest public networks in Europe. Including roaming, the network enables EV drivers with access to over 350,000 charging points.

“The EV charging platform is mission critical for companies building global charging services. Our strong financial position enables us to secure the best growth capabilities for our partners,” says Virta CEO, Jussi Palola.

Virta and the EV charging industry are heading to the era of green hypergrowth

Virta’s growth has continuously surpassed the industry average, and in 2022, Virta Group’s annual revenue grew 112% to €39M (preliminary figures). As a result, Virta was ranked on the Financial Times 1000 Europe’s Fastest Growing Companies list for the fourth time in a row in 2023. With the fresh funding, Virta aims to grow its charging transactions by more than fivefold in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region by 2025.

Time to unlock hundreds of billions in energy sector savings with the help of EV’s

EVs are big batteries on wheels, and by 2030, Virta estimates they will represent up to 90% of the total battery storage capacity in Europe. Connecting this battery capacity to the energy system and adjusting EV charging consumption in real-time (demand-side flexibility) are seen as one of the biggest enablers for the world to successfully multiply the share of renewable energy production, lower the cost of electricity for consumers, and increase the energy system resilience.

According to a recent Smarten report**, full scale implementation of demand-side flexibility, including EV charging, will save up to €254.4B in grid infrastructure and peak power plant investments between 2023 and 2030, and 300 million tonnes in GHG emissions by 2030. In total, full deployment of demand-side flexibility could lead to a potential cost reduction for consumers of more than €71B per year on electric consumption by 2030.

“Today, Virta has one of the leading platform patent portfolios with focus on energy technologies such as vehicle-to-grid (V2G), autonomous vehicle charging, and operating complex billion-scale network operations. With the new funding, we are now ready to take the global lead in making EVs an integral part of energy flexibility markets,” says Palola. In the process, the Virta platform capacity is estimated to grow from the current ca. 2,000 MW to 12,000-15,000 MW, the size of 10 large nuclear power plants, by the end of 2025.

The funding round’s lead investor, Jolt Capital’s CEO Jean Schmitt, summarises the expectations and potential from the investor point-of-view: “Our strategy is to fund European growth deep-tech companies looking for a worldwide leadership. Virta has demonstrated a rare ability to combine hypergrowth, technology leadership and mature operations, enabling sustainable profitable scalability. We believe that Virta is now in pole position to win the race to platform market leadership in one of the fastest growing global industry sectors, ie EV charging and energy flexibility.”

“We continue to be impressed with the track record of Virta and the continued forward momentum in financial performance after a decade of supporting the team”, continues Mikael Myllymäki, Vice President and Head of Helen Ventures. “This latest funding round puts Virta in a great position to further capitalize on their proven platform as the EV market continues to grow. This includes Virta’s role as a key enabler in demand-side flexibility, which is a large theme in the energy transition.”

* Estimated number of charging points in Europe in 2025 compared to 2021 +475% from 0,4 million to 2,3 million and to 7,9 million in 2030. Sources: ACEA, ICCT, IEA, BNEF, DNV 2030 estimates.
** Demand-side flexibility in the EU: Quantification of benefits in 2030, September 2022, Smart Energy Europe and DNV.

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Herkules IV divests PTC to Interwell

Hercules Capital
On 21 April 2022, Herkules IV entered into an agreement to sell PTC, a global provider of downhole and wellhead technology products, to Interwell. Interwell is privately held provider of oilfield technology products, headquartered in Stavanger, Norway. Intwerell is owned by Ferd and the Interwell management.
PTC is a leading developer and supplier of premium gas lift and wellhead products that enhance well integrity, safety, reliability and productivity for oil companies. The company has a large, patent protected product portfolio developed in close relationship with customers facing well-related challenges offshore. Herkules has owned the company together with the founders and other employees.During Herkules IV’s ownership period, PTC has grown revenues from NOK 202 million in 2013 to NOK 502 million in 2021. In this period, the company has experienced two major industry downturns and a global pandemic that has had material negative impacts on the company.
In 2014-2016, the company experienced the first industry downturn during Herkules IV’s ownership. During this period, it was decided that the company was to continue to invest in developing and expanding its portfolio of unique technology products. In addition, the company was to invest in obtaining industry leading safety and quality certifications on its products. The decision to continue to invest during those challenging times has proven to a key factor in the company’s success since 2016. Since 2016, PTC has successful expanded its addressable market and gained momentum in several new markets

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Investment in TSE, an expert in Photovoltaic and Agrivoltaic development

Eurazeo

Eurazeo is investing in TSE through its Transition Infrastructure Fund. Bpifrance and investors from the Crédit Agricole group are also taking part in this €130 million fundraising round.

TSE was founded in 2016 and is a producer of solar energy in France. Its ambition is to meet the challenges posed by energy and ecological transition, partly by developing agrivoltaic projects through partnerships with major players in the world of agriculture. TSE is also recognised for its innovative agricultural canopy solution, and is the company that brought into service the Marville photovoltaic facility, the second-largest in France. TSE currently has 1.6 GW of projects at varying stages of development.
This fundraising round, led by Eurazeo, is intended to support the company’s growth and help it develop large-scale photovoltaic and agrivoltaic projects. TSE’s aim is to reinforce its significant presence in this field by developing strong local roots, close ties with the farming community and a resolute focus on innovation.

Through this investment – the fifth made by Eurazeo’s Infrastructure team – Eurazeo is pursuing its ESG and sustainability targets while supporting energy transition and contributing to a low-carbon economy.
Mathieu Debonnet and Pierre Yves Lambert, who jointly lead TSE, said:
“We are delighted to welcome Eurazeo, Bpifrance and Crédit Agricole as shareholders. Their investment will help to boost our growth and is a major source of pride for us. It also demonstrates the strength of our business model, products, innovations and know-how in the field of solar power. We will continue to develop according to our business model based on quality, a focus on the long term, a grass-roots commitment to farmers and manufacturers and an environment-focused culture. More than ever, we will play an active role in decarbonising our economy and increasing its resilience. We thank our new investors for the confidence they have shown in TSE’s plans.”

Melissa Cohen, Managing Director of Eurazeo’s Infrastructure team, added:
“We are delighted to be partnering with TSE, a producer of photovoltaic energy whose products combine the benefits of solar power and agricultural development, and which can be adapted to all types of terrain. This fundraising round will give it the resources it needs to fulfil its ambitions. We are happy to be taking part in TSE’s entrepreneurial journey, and particularly its development of innovative agrivoltaic solutions. TSE’s market position is entirely aligned with Eurazeo’s commitment to energy transition.”

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DIF Capital Partners invests in leading UK district heating company Pinnacle Power

DIF

DIF Capital Partners (“DIF”) is pleased to announce that it has signed an agreement to invest in Pinnacle Power Limited, a leading UK district heating platform, to accelerate its growth and fund the development and ownership of city-scale district heating networks across the UK. The transaction will see DIF owning a significant majority in the company, with the management team retaining a minority stake. This is following an agreement with Pinnacle Power’s previous shareholder, Pinnacle Group Limited. DIF’s investment will be executed through its DIF Infrastructure VII fund.

Pinnacle Power is a leading developer and turn-key contractor in the UK district heating market. Founded in 2012 and headquartered in London, the company has a successful track record, having delivered over 100 projects since its inception. Notably, it has developed and is the operator of the £87m Greenwich Peninsula network. With 87MW of heat capacity and servicing 15,700 residential units, this is one of the largest city scale networks in the country.

District heating networks are widely expected to play a crucial role in the UK’s journey to net zero. Today, heat-related activities are the biggest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in the country, representing 37% of total emissions. District heating networks are a cost effective, low-carbon solution to traditional gas boilers in urban locations. As a result, the country’s district heating market is widely expected to undergo a sustained period of high growth, with substantial capital investment required to meet these net zero ambitions.

Gijs Voskuyl, Partner and Head of Infrastructure at DIF Capital Partners, said: “We share Pinnacle Power’s view that district heating networks will play a pivotal role in the energy transition story of the UK. We are impressed with what the Pinnacle Power management team has achieved to date and firmly believe in their ability to grow the business, backed by strong regulatory tailwinds. Pinnacle Power represents a compelling investment proposition for DIF, with an opportunity to invest in a build-to-core sustainable energy platform operating in a rapidly growing market.”

Commenting on the transaction, Toby Heysham, CEO of Pinnacle Power, said: “As recognised in the Government’s Energy Security Plan, heat networks will play a critical role in delivering affordable, low-carbon heating, and help hit the UK Government’s legally binding carbon targets. We are excited to be working with DIF to deploy the scale of investment this market needs. We know that the industry needs to deploy at least £60-80bn into low-carbon heat networks to unlock the vast amount of local, wasted heat and deliver that heat into homes and businesses. Many towns and cities have declared climate emergencies but very few have credible solutions to the ‘heat challenge’. This investment offers a clear pathway to achieving decarbonisation, through local investment in locally generated, low-carbon heat.”

Peregrine Lloyd, Group CEO of Pinnacle Group, said: “This agreement is the culmination of a ten-year journey since founding Pinnacle Power. I am incredibly proud of the work our management team has done to grow and nurture Pinnacle Power to see it become one of the country’s leading heat network platforms. The time is now right to hand over the reins to DIF, who will take Pinnacle Power to the next level and enable the scale of investment needed in the energy market. I look forward to following this exciting next phase in Pinnacle Power’s development.”

DIF was advised by AFRY, Deloitte, Evolution Infrastructure and Travers Smith. Pinnacle Power and Pinnacle Group were advised by Eversheds Sutherland and Opus Corporate Finance.

 

About DIF Capital Partners

DIF Capital Partners is an independent infrastructure fund manager, with more than EUR 15 billion of AUM. DIF was founded in 2005 and has built a leading position in managing mid-market investments, primarily in Europe, North America and Australia.

DIF follows two strategies: its traditional DIF funds invest in lower risk mid-sized infrastructure projects and companies in the energy transition (incl. renewables) and utilities sector, as well as PPPs and concessions. The firm’s CIF funds invest in small to mid-sized companies that will thrive in the new economy. These companies are typically active in the digital, energy transition and sustainable transportation sector.

With a team of over 210 professionals in 11 offices, DIF Capital Partners offers a unique market approach combining global presence with the benefits of strong local networks and investment capabilities. DIF is located in Amsterdam (Schiphol), Frankfurt, Helsinki, London, Luxembourg, Madrid, New York, Paris, Santiago, Sydney and Toronto.

For more information, please visit www.dif.eu

About Pinnacle Power

Pinnacle Power is a heat network provider in the UK. We provide, build, own and operate services for a large number of heat networks around the country. Pinnacle Power was started in 2012 by Pinnacle Group and management. Since then, it has grown to be one of the leading heat network providers in the country. Pinnacle Power is currently designing and building a number of schemes for local authorities across the UK as well as operating networks and running a heat utility. Pinnacle Power have offices in London, Carlisle, Sheffield and Copenhagen.

For more information, please visit www.pinnaclepower.co.uk

About Pinnacle Group

Pinnacle Group is a community-facing, people-first business that delivers, manages, and maintains communities and places where people live, work, learn and play including a portfolio of 75,000+ mixed tenure homes and, 200+ schools as well as open spaces, public and private buildings, retail, distribution centres and manufacturing.

Formed in 1994, Pinnacle is a trusted service provider to both public and private sectors; employing 3,700+ people and operates across the UK from over 200 delivery locations.

For more information, please visit www.pinnaclegroup.co.uk

 

Contacts:

DIF Capital Partners:

Diederik Heinink, d.heinink@dif.eu

Pinnacle Power:

enquires@pinnaclepower.co.uk

Pinnacle Group:

Aisling Jamieson-Ewers, +44 (0)75 5281 0514 / Mia Dexter, M: +44 (0)73 1137 0065

PinnaclePress@headlandconsultancy.com

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DIF Capital Partners agrees to acquire majority interest in US-based solar platform Green Street Power Partners

DIF

DIF Capital Partners is pleased to announce that it has agreed to acquire a majority equity interest in US-based Green Street Power Partners (“Green Street”), a leading developer, financier, owner, and operator of distributed generation solar projects for various private and public clients across the US. DIF’s investment will be executed through its DIF Infrastructure VII fund.

Since its inception in 2014, Green Street has experienced rapid year-over-year growth driven by its experienced executive management team and extensive network of industry relationships. Headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut, Green Street has developed a 300+ MW portfolio of operational and under-construction projects throughout the country.

Green Street has over 2 GW of solar projects in its pipeline in both existing and new markets, which it will look to execute over the near-to medium-term. Green Street is well positioned to accomplish its development goals, utilizing its vertically integrated capabilities across development, legal, project financing, engineering, and project and asset management functions.

In addition to existing and upcoming renewable energy goals, execution of the growing development pipeline is further supported by the recently passed Inflation Reduction Act, providing a long-term runway of supportive renewable energy legislation long awaited by developers, sponsors, and market participants alike.

In 2023, Green Street’s projects nationwide will produce over 275 million kWh of energy, displacing over 200 thousand tons of CO2.

The transaction is subject to customary conditions and approvals and is expected to close in early Q2 2023.

“Green Street is very excited to be partnering with DIF. As a leader in distributed generation in the US, the partnership will enable Green Street to continue its growth efforts and execute on its 2 gigawatts and growing of pipeline,” said Jason Kuflik, President of Green Street. “We are excited about what we will be able to accomplish together. As a leading global infrastructure fund, we could not have picked a better partner.”

Green Street was advised by Scotiabank and its legal counsel Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP in connection with this transaction.

“The partnership with Green Street will further grow DIF’s North American renewable portfolio and marks our first distributed solar generation platform in the North American market”, said Gijs Voskuyl, Partner and Head of Infrastructure at DIF Capital Partners . “DIF is excited to work with the Green Street team to continue developing and operating distributed solar projects across the US to further advance the global clean energy transition, one of DIF’s responsibilities as a leading infrastructure investor. Supported by strong thematic tailwinds in the US, we see this as an excellent opportunity to support a strong team in their goals to become a leading distributed generation developer and asset owner.”

DIF was advised by Macquarie Capital and its legal counsel Stoel Rives LLP in connection with this transaction.

 

About DIF Capital Partners

DIF Capital Partners is an independent infrastructure fund manager, with more than EUR 15 billion of AUM. DIF was founded in 2005 and has built a leading position in managing mid-market investments, primarily in Europe, North America and Australia.

DIF follows two strategies: its traditional DIF funds invest in lower risk mid-sized infrastructure projects and companies in the energy transition (incl. renewables) and utilities sector, as well as PPPs and concessions. The firm’s CIF funds invest in small to mid-sized companies that will thrive in the new economy. These companies are typically active in the digital, energy transition and sustainable transportation sectors.

With a team of over 210 professionals in 11 offices, DIF Capital Partners offers a unique market approach combining global presence with the benefits of strong local networks and investment capabilities. DIF is located in Amsterdam (Schiphol), Frankfurt, Helsinki, London, Luxembourg, Madrid, New York, Paris, Santiago, Sydney and Toronto.

For more information, please visit www.dif.eu.

About Green Street Power Partners

Founded in 2014, Green Street is a national developer, financier, owner, and operator of solar energy systems benefiting businesses and communities across the country. Green Street specializes in structured finance for solar assets, securing sponsor and tax equity alongside project-level debt financing to realize the highest value for its clients.

Green Street’s proven dependability, experience within the industry, and established portfolio of 300+ MW of operational and under-construction projects, underpin its success as one of the leading solar developers and owners in the country.

Green Street strives to continue this growth while staying committed to corporate social and environmental responsibility, as we sustain our environment for future generations through solar power. We view this responsibility as a fundamental part of our business, and we consistently work to inspire these values in our employees, partners, and customers. Green Street currently has 58 employees and is headquartered in Stamford, CT with a legal office in Tallahassee, FL.

For more information, please visit www.gspp.com.

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KKR and Brookfield agree transaction for global renewable developer X-ELIO

KKR
  • KKR and Brookfield signed a 50/50 joint venture agreement in 2019
  • 3 GW of renewables built or developed by X-ELIO
  • Strong diversified global presence across 5 continents

MADRID, Spain and LONDON, United Kingdom, 21 March 2023 — KKR, a leading global investment firm, has agreed to sell its 50% stake in global renewable developer, X-ELIO, to its joint venture partner, Brookfield Renewable. Following the transaction Brookfield Renewable will own 100% of X-ELIO.

Founded in 2005 and headquartered in Madrid, X-ELIO specializes in the development, construction, financing and operation of solar PV plants, storage and hydrogen projects worldwide. Since KKR’s original investment in 2015 and Brookfield’s acquisition of a 50% stake in 2019, X-ELIO has benefited from over $2bn of investment, enabling significant growth in the pipeline and increase in development pace. X-ELIO has built or developed 3 GW of renewables projects in total across 5 continents since it was founded.

Today, X-ELIO has built a strong presence across the top solar geographies in the world, and is expected to have 3 GW of assets in operation, under construction or ready-to-build by the end of 2023 across Spain, Italy, the U.S., Australia, Japan and Latin America. In addition, X-ELIO has over 10 GW of advanced near-term pipeline, which combined with extensive in-house expertise in renewable project development, positions X-ELIO to capture growing global demand for high-quality solar and storage assets.

Ignacio Paz-Ares, Head of European Renewable Power and Transition Investments at Brookfield Renewable, said: “X-ELIO is a business we know well following our initial investment and we are thrilled to continue to support this leading global platform with significant growth ahead. This transaction is very aligned with Brookfield’s strategy as a leading owner, operator and developer of renewables worldwide, driven by the incredible tailwinds for this sector.”

Tara Davies, Co-Head of European Infrastructure at KKR, said: “Since KKR’s initial investment eight years ago, we have helped X-ELIO transform into a global leader in sustainable energy development. As a firm, we have been a long-term investor behind the energy transition and we are focused on continuing to identify the right opportunities to support companies with the right resources, and seeking to play a leading role in this space. I’m proud of what we have been able to accomplish together, and wish X-ELIO continued success on this exciting journey.”

Lluis Noguera, CEO of X-ELIO, stated: “X-ELIO’s journey to become a leading developer with diversified global presence would not have been possible without our shareholders’ focus on execution and long-term value creation. Now, with the continued support from Brookfield, we are in an optimal position to continue growing our solar and storage business while tackling new opportunities in the energy transition space”.

KKR’s original investment in X-ELIO was made via KKR Global Infrastructure Investor Fund II. Brookfield Renewable will acquire the remaining stake in X-ELIO as a follow-on investment through the same flagship infrastructure fund that made the original acquisition.

The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to close during the second half of 2023.

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About KKR
KKR is a leading global investment firm that offers alternative asset management as well as capital markets and insurance solutions. KKR aims to generate attractive investment returns by following a patient and disciplined investment approach, employing world-class people and supporting growth in its portfolio companies and communities. KKR sponsors investment funds that invest in private equity, credit and real assets and has strategic partners that manage hedge funds. KKR’s insurance subsidiaries offer retirement, life and reinsurance products under the management of Global Atlantic Financial Group. References to KKR’s investments may include the activities of its sponsored funds and insurance subsidiaries. For additional information about KKR & Co. Inc. (NYSE: KKR), please visit KKR’s website at www.kkr.com and on Twitter @KKR_Co.

About X-ELIO

X-ELIO specializes in the development, construction, financing and operation of renewable and sustainable energy projects with a global presence in Europe, the United States, Latin America, Japan and Australia. The company has 17 years of experience with more than 2.8 GW built. The group is a world leader in the development of renewable and sustainable energy, with a strong commitment to the reduction of greenhouse gases and the fight against climate change. For additional information, please visit our website at www.X-ELIO.com, LinkedIn profile at https://www.linkedin.com/company/x-elio or Twitter profile at https://twitter.com/X_Elio.

About Brookfield Renewable

Brookfield Renewable operates one of the world’s largest publicly traded platforms for decarbonization technologies. Our diversified portfolio consists of hydroelectric, wind, solar, distributed energy and sustainable technology solutions across five continents. Our installed capacity totals approximately 25,400 megawatts and a development pipeline of approximately 110,000 megawatts of renewable power assets, 8 million metric tons per annum (“MMTPA”) of carbon capture and storage, 2 million tonnes of recycled materials and 3 million metric million British thermal units (“MMBtu”) of renewable natural gas projects.

Brookfield Renewable is the flagship listed renewable power company of Brookfield Asset Management, a leading global alternative asset manager with approximately $800 billion of assets under management.

Enquiries

KKR: Europe

Alastair Elwen / Sophia Johnston

FGS Global
T: +44 20 7251 3801

E: KKR-Lon@FGSGlobal.com

KKR: Spain

Sarah Estébanez

Tinkle

T: +34 636 62 80 41

E: sestebanez@tinkle.es

 

Brookfield Renewable

Simon Maine

T: +44 7398 909 278

E: simon.maine@brookfield.com

X-ELIO

Isabel Ruiz

T: +34 696 37 32 29

E: press@x-elio.com

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