CDPQ invests $158 million in WSP’s expansion

Cdpq
Creation of new world leader in the power & energy sector

CDPQ announced an investment of $158 million in WSP Global Inc. (TSX: WSP), a leading global professional services firm to enable its acquisition of POWER Engineers, a major U.S. consulting firm specialized in the power & energy industry.

This strategic acquisition, valued at $2,4 billion, will enable WSP to strengthen its presence in the power & energy industry and, with the addition of around 4,000 professionals specialized in the field, to position itself at the head of global leaders in this segment. The integration of POWER Engineers into the WSP portfolio will complement its three other growing segments: transportation and infrastructure, earth and environment, and buildings.

“Through this investment, CDPQ is reaffirming its long-standing commitment to WSP, allowing the company to carve out an influential position in the global power & energy industry and contribute to the transition under way,” said Kim Thomassin, Executive Vice-President and Head of Québec at CDPQ. “It’s in line with our strategy to support the international expansion of companies solidly anchored in Québec and to foster their sustainable growth.”

“This acquisition places us at the front lines of the energy transition. I would like to underscore CDPQ’s trust and commitment to our organization, as we plan to expand our scope and promote an even more sustainable future around the world,” said Alexandre L’Heureux, President and Chief Executive Officer of WSP.

Since becoming a shareholder of WSP in 2011, CDPQ has supported the company in its expansion plan. Today’s announcement represents the eighth investment financed by this institutional investor, including numerous transformational acquisitions. Following this transaction, CDPQ will remain the largest shareholder of the company.

ABOUT CDPQ

At CDPQ, we invest constructively to generate sustainable returns over the long term. As a global investment group managing funds for public pension and insurance plans, we work alongside our partners to build enterprises that drive performance and progress. We are active in the major financial markets, private equity, infrastructure, real estate and private debt. As at December 31, 2023, CDPQ’s net assets totalled CAD 434 billion. For more information, visit cdpq.com, consult our LinkedIn or Instagram pages, or follow us on X.

CDPQ is a registered trademark owned by Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec and licensed for use by its subsidiaries.

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Quantum Capital Group to Acquire Cogentrix from Carlyle for $3 Billion

Carlyle

Cogentrix Platform Consists of 11 Natural Gas-Fired Power Plants, Comprising 5.3 Gigawatts of Efficient and Reliable Capacity Across Key U.S. Markets

 

HOUSTON – August 5, 2024 – Quantum Capital Group and its affiliates (“Quantum”) today announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Cogentrix Energy (“Cogentrix” or the “Company”), a premier U.S. independent power producer, from funds managed by Carlyle (NASDAQ: CG) for a total consideration of approximately $3 billion. The Cogentrix platform is comprised of 5.3 gigawatts of efficient and flexible natural gas-fired power plants, located throughout PJM, ERCOT, and ISO-NE, which support the reliability, resiliency, and affordability of the U.S. electricity market.

Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, Cogentrix has a multi-decade track record of successfully acquiring, developing, constructing, operating, and optimizing conventional and renewable power generation assets throughout the U.S. Following transaction close, the Company will continue to be led by current CEO John Ragan and the existing Cogentrix management team.

“We are at a critical juncture in the evolution of the domestic power market. Electricity demand is rapidly increasing thanks to explosive growth in data centers and AI, the reshoring of manufacturing, and the electrification-of-everything,” said Wil VanLoh, Founder and CEO of Quantum. “This growth is occurring at the same time our grid is becoming more unstable with additions of intermittent renewable power and continued retirements of coal-fired generation. Now more than ever, we need reliable and efficient power infrastructure. This is what the Cogentrix assets provide.”

Michael MacDougall, Partner at Quantum, said: “We are thrilled to partner with the Cogentrix team. Having stewarded more than 18 gigawatts of assets over its 40+ year history, the Company is a proven leader in building, managing, and optimizing power generation assets of all technology types. We expect to meaningfully grow the Cogentrix platform, with a focus on gas-fired power generation, renewables, and battery storage. Our goal is to deliver clean, reliable, and affordable power to customers.”

Matt O’Connor, a Partner within Carlyle’s Global Infrastructure team, added: “This is a win-win transaction for everyone involved as Cogentrix begins its next chapter of growth with Quantum. We are proud of the significant transformation Cogentrix has achieved under our ownership. We wish John and his team continued success as they expand their platform and seize numerous opportunities in the rapidly evolving U.S. power sector.”

“We are pleased to have supported Cogentrix’s efforts to establish decarbonization objectives for its fleet of natural gas-fired power generation assets while continuing to support grid reliability, a critical balance required to effectuate the energy transition,” said Pooja Goyal, CIO of Global Infrastructure at Carlyle. “This successful transaction is a testament to the deep sector expertise of our energy and infrastructure platform at Carlyle. We look forward to continuing our investment activities in this rapidly growing area, including partnering with our management teams on growth opportunities and deploying capital in new investments.”

“We are grateful for Carlyle’s partnership, which has provided us with the tools and capabilities to capture a growing opportunity set within the U.S. power market,” said John Ragan, CEO of Cogentrix. “As we look to the future, we are confident Quantum’s deep knowledge of the energy markets, successful track record of business building, and risk management capabilities will drive significant long-term value for our customers, employees, investors, and other stakeholders.”

Guggenheim served as Quantum’s financial advisor while King & Spalding and Vinson & Elkins provided legal advice to Quantum. Lazard served as Carlyle’s financial advisor and Latham & Watkins as legal advisor.

The transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals and is expected to close between the fourth quarter of 2024 and the first quarter of 2025.

 

About Quantum Capital Group

Founded in 1998, Quantum is a leading provider of private equity, credit, and venture capital to the global energy and energy transition industry, having managed together with its affiliates more than $27 billion in equity commitments since inception. For more information on Quantum, please visit www.quantumcap.com.

 

About Cogentrix

Founded in 1983, Cogentrix is a leading independent power producer with a long track record of successfully acquiring, developing, constructing, operating and improving power generation assets across the United States. Further information is available at www.cogentrix.com.

 

About Carlyle

Carlyle (NASDAQ: CG) is a global investment firm with deep industry expertise that deploys private capital across its business and conducts its operations through three business segments: Global Private Equity, Global Credit and Global Investment Solutions. With $435 billion of assets under management as of June 30, 2024, Carlyle’s purpose is to invest wisely and create value on behalf of its investors, portfolio companies and the communities in which we live and invest. Carlyle employs more than 2,200 people in 29 offices across four continents. Further information is available at www.carlyle.com. Follow Carlyle on X @OneCarlyle and LinkedIn at The Carlyle Group.

 

Contacts

Quantum Capital Group

Kate Thompson / Erik Carlson / Madeline Jones

Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher

212-355-4449

 

Carlyle

Brittany Berliner

(212) 813-4839

Brittany.Berliner@carlyle.com

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InfraRed Capital Partners invests in Voltan Energy

InfraRed Capital Partners

InfraRed Capital Partners (“InfraRed”) is pleased to announce, on behalf of one of its Value-add strategies, an investment in Voltan Energy (“Voltan”), a decentralised energy company based in Finland. Voltan installs and operates ground-source heat pumps in multi-dwelling units and other large buildings, with a growing presence across Finland and ambitions for international expansion. InfraRed has acquired a majority position for an undisclosed amount, with a growth equity allocation of up to €75m being made available.

 

Founded in 2020, Voltan partners with local housing associations and developers to install their Heat-as-a-Service (“HaaS”) technology, using geothermal heat pumps to provide customers with reliable, clean and cost-effective heating and cooling throughout the year, without the upfront costs of installation.

There is a growing focus on decentralised heating and cooling systems, as part of global efforts to adopt new technologies to help meet net zero targets. In Finland, with its ambition to reach net zero by 2035, the government wants to shift heating and cooling systems towards the use of non-combustion technologies such as heat pumps. Ground-source heat pumps provide a sustainable, competitive alternative to other heating sources such as district heating, which typically rely on combustion technologies.

Voltan currently operates across 10 sites in Finland, with an additional 35 contracted, and with a significant identified pipeline. This market expansion reflects the growing demand for stable and competitive energy pricing and sustainable energy. Centred on domestic expansion initially, Voltan intends to scale operations internationally to address similar needs in other European countries.

In addition to its green credentials and high growth potential, Voltan’s business model exhibits the attractive infrastructure characteristics that InfraRed focuses on, such as long-term contracted revenues linked to inflation. This investment is firmly aligned to InfraRed’s Value-add approach to invest in early stage companies with long-term growth potential, supported by strong underlying fundamentals, and with high-quality management teams.

Stephane Kofman, Head of Value-Add Funds, InfraRed Capital Partners, commented:

“Voltan has successfully established a strong initial footprint and reached a critical step from which our growth capital and expertise can help accelerate its development and ambition. There is a clear need for Voltan’s compelling and differentiated business proposition in Finland and beyond, delivering sustainable heating and cooling to those living and working in urban environments. The management team is highly motivated, with deep expertise in the sector and a clear understanding of the market opportunity. As an active asset manager, we look forward to working closely with them to add value and deliver on Voltan’s potential.”

Miikka Lemmetty, Chief Executive Officer, Voltan Energy, said:

“We are delighted to partner with InfraRed to help us meet the strong demand for competitively priced, clean energy solutions. Their team has significant experience in growing companies, and we look forward to working closely with them on the next phase of our development.”

ENDS

About InfraRed Capital Partners

InfraRed Capital Partners is an international infrastructure asset manager, with more than 160 professionals operating worldwide from offices in London, Madrid, New York, Sydney and Seoul. Over the past 25 years, InfraRed has established itself as a highly successful developer and steward of infrastructure assets that play a vital role in supporting communities. InfraRed manages US$13bn+ of equity capital [1] for investors around the globe, in listed and private funds across both core and value-add strategies.

A long-term sustainability-led mindset is integral to how InfraRed operates as it aims to achieve lasting, positive impacts and deliver on its vision of Creating Better Futures. InfraRed has been a signatory of the Principles of Responsible Investment since 2011 and has achieved the highest possible PRI rating [2] for its infrastructure business for eight consecutive assessments, having secured a 5-star rating for the 2023 period [3]. It is also a member of the Net Zero Asset Manager’s Initiative and is a TCFD supporter.

InfraRed is part of SLC Management, the institutional alternatives and traditional asset management business of Sun Life. InfraRed represents the infrastructure equity arm of SLC Management, which also incorporates BGO, a global real estate investment management adviser, and Crescent Capital, a global alternative credit investment asset manager.

[1] $13bn+ equity under management (USD) – Uses 5-year average FX as at 31st December 2023 at GBP/USD of 1.2881, EUR/USD of 1.1226, EUM is USD 13.433m.

[2] Principles for Responsible Investment (“PRI”) ratings are based on following a set of Principles, including incorporating ESG issues into investment analysis, decision-making processes and ownership policies. More information is available at https://www.unpri.org/about-the-pri

[3] In the 2023 Principles for Responsible Investment (“PRI”) assessment, InfraRed achieved a 5 star rating for the Policy Governance and Strategy and Infrastructure and a 4 star rating for the newly created Confidence Building Measures. Please find InfraRed’s report available for download on our website here: https://www.ircp.com/sustainability/

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Platinum Equity Completes Sale of Hunterstown Power

Platinum

LOS ANGELES (July 19, 2024) – Platinum Equity announced today that the sale of the Hunterstown power generation facility and related assets to LS Power has been completed.

Financial terms were not disclosed.

Located in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, the Hunterstown facility is a combined-cycle gas turbine generating power plant that provides 810 MW to the PJM (Met-Ed) 500kV grid, with enough to supply more than 600,000 homes.

“Hunterstown is a good example of how Platinum can use its playbook to create value in different ways,” said Platinum Equity Co-President Louis Samson. “The Hunterstown facility is an outstanding asset, with high free cash flow and strong recurring revenue, acquired from a seller that needed a divestiture solution during a time of distress, so it checked a lot of the boxes we typically look for. Our experience with corporate carveouts and our willingness to be open minded put us in position to help.”

Platinum Equity acquired the facility in 2018 from GenOn, a unit of NRG Energy Inc. (NYSE: NRG), which had filed for bankruptcy protection in June 2017, and managed it as a standalone business in the firm’s portfolio.

“Hunterstown performed well and benefited from meaningful investment and operational oversite during our ownership,” said Platinum Equity Managing Director David Glatt. “We then found a new home for the facility with a buyer who is a natural fit for the long term. We are proud of the outcome and will continue seeking opportunities to put our M&A capabilities to work in creative ways.”

Evercore served as financial advisor to Platinum Equity on the sale of Hunterstown and Latham & Watkins LLP provided legal counsel to Platinum Equity.

About Platinum Equity

Founded in 1995 by Tom Gores, Platinum Equity is a global investment firm with more than $48 billion of assets under management and a portfolio of approximately 50 operating companies that serve customers around the world. Platinum Equity specializes in mergers, acquisitions and operations – a trademarked strategy it calls M&A&O® – acquiring and operating companies in a broad range of business markets, including manufacturing, distribution, transportation and logistics, equipment rental, metals services, media and entertainment, technology, telecommunications and other industries. Over the past 28 years Platinum Equity has completed more than 450 acquisitions.

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Blackstone Announces Investment in Symphony Infrastructure Partners, Australia’s Leading Energy Transition Infrastructure Services Platform

Blackstone

Sydney, July 18, 2024 – Blackstone (NYSE:BX) announced today that funds managed by Blackstone Tactical Opportunities (“Blackstone”) have made a structured equity investment into Symphony Infrastructure Partners (“Symphony”), Australia’s leading energy transition infrastructure services platform.

Symphony was founded in 2022 by Steve Butler with a mission to accelerate Australia’s energy transition to renewables. The company develops, operates, and owns specialized services critical to Australia’s energy transition. Blackstone’s investment provides capital for Symphony to complete multiple pending acquisitions that will bring industry-leading capabilities into the platform and also involves a commitment of funding towards the future growth of the company.

Steve Butler, Chief Executive Officer, Symphony, said: “We are thrilled to partner with Blackstone, the world’s largest alternative asset manager, and join its global network of high-quality companies around the world. Blackstone brings incredible scale and access to capital, and we share the vision of growing the business and spearheading Australia’s energy transition.”

Michael Blickstead, Head of Australia & New Zealand Private Equity, Blackstone, said: “We are pleased to partner with the management team to take Symphony on its next chapter of growth and contribute to Australia’s energy transition. Our success in Australia and around the world has been based on two factors: partnering and having close alignment with visionary founders and building businesses through our scale and expertise. We bring this same commitment to Symphony, where we will provide our full breadth of resources and capabilities to support the company’s long-term success.”

Daniel Kearns, Managing Director in Blackstone Tactical Opportunities, said: “At Blackstone, the energy transition is a major investment theme both globally and in Australia, where we’ve made marquee investments in companies with innovative solutions that address the world’s transition into renewable energy. Australia is still in the early stages of its energy transition journey, and we couldn’t be more excited to partner with a market-leading platform in Symphony and provide the capital and resources to fuel its continued growth.”

Blackstone is a committed investor in Australia, bringing a track record of providing flexible partnership capital for founders, building businesses into market leaders, and delivering for stakeholders. It has made a number of investments in Australia-based companies supporting the energy transition including Xpansiv, a premier infrastructure platform for global carbon and environmental commodities, and Energy Exemplar, a leading global provider of energy market simulation software.

About Blackstone 
Blackstone is the world’s largest alternative asset manager. We seek to deliver compelling returns for institutional and individual investors by strengthening the companies in which we invest. Our more than $1 trillion in assets under management include global investment strategies focused on real estate, private equity, infrastructure, life sciences, growth equity, credit, real assets, secondaries and hedge funds. Further information is available at www.blackstone.com. Follow @blackstone on LinkedIn, X (Twitter), and Instagram

Media Contact
Ellen Bogard
Ellen.Bogard@blackstone.com
+852 3651 7737

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Blue Earth Capital leads € 25m growth funding round in Quatt, a leader in smart heat pumps

Blue Earth Capital

Quatt Secures 25 Million Euros in Growth Funding

Funding will be for new products and international expansion

Amsterdam, July 17, 2024 – Quatt, an Amsterdam-based scale-up specializing in smart heat pumps, today announces €25 million in a growth equity funding round led by Blue Earth Capital, with participation from Seaya Andromeda and existing investor Impact Equity Fund.

Quatt has experienced rapid growth over the past two years, installing over 7,500 smart heat pumps throughout the Netherlands, and the organization has seen significant expansion. “Due to its quick payback period, more and more Dutch people are opting for our heat pump,” says Marijn Flipse, CEO and co-founder of Quatt. “In the three years since our inception, we have secured a leading position in the heat pump market thanks to our consumer-centric approach, smart software and attractive design. By focusing on product development, sales, and installation all in-house, we deliver an excellent customer experience at a very competitive price. This is now recognized by international investors as well.”

New Products and Crossing Borders
Quatt’s flagship product is the “Hybrid”, an ingenious intermediate solution towards fully decarbonizing residential heating by connecting a Quatt-designed hybrid heat pump to customers’ existing boilers, therefore reducing their gas consumption by up to 80% while keeping the boilers for back-up heating needs.  Quatt recently introduced two add-ons to Hybrid – the “All-Electric” heat pump and its patented cooling system “Chill.” This financing will enable Quatt to accelerate the development of these and other new products

Flipse adds, “Over the next 5-10 years, Europe will need to take significant steps in transitioning the built environment to sustainable energy. We aim to make sustainable homes accessible to everyone while reducing energy costs. We look beyond just the heat pump and Dutch borders.” As part of its expansion strategy, Quatt is complementing its market-leading online lead generation with collaborations with installation partners, energy companies, and other market players.

Energy transition
“Heat pumps are an important part of the energy transition for Europe, where nearly 80% of final energy consumption in the residential sector is used for space and water heating[1], with a high dependence on natural gas,” says Kayode Akinola, Head of Private Equity at Blue Earth Capital. “Quatt’s differentiated approach and product suite address common barriers to heat pump adoption by building consumer confidence. This enables real energy and cost savings whilst starting the transition to electrification of an important part of the household and working to decarbonize residential properties. This approach aligns with BlueEarth’s aim to support the energy transition by providing growth equity and support to companies offering products and services that contribute towards decarbonization.”

Carlos Fisch, partner and co-Head at Seaya Andromeda says “Quatt’s modular system will play an important role in the energy transition. Consumers can gradually switch to sustainable energy. From this winter, Quatt’s hybrid heat pump can be upgraded to a fully electric pump, and in the spring of 2025, they will launch Chill, a unique air conditioning system that cools using the existing heat pump. With this product roadmap, we believe Quatt can become a category leader. We are looking forward to supporting the team with their efforts to expand in Europe.”

The Dutch Impact Equity Fund is also participating in this funding round. Randolf Nijsse, founder of Impact Equity Fund, is particularly impressed by the focus on the customer journey of the Dutch smart heat pump company. “The ease of purchase is crucial for success and impact on the energy transition. Quatt’s products are low-threshold, making them distinctive in this market.”

 

About Quatt
Quatt is an Amsterdam-based scale-up specializing in smart heat pumps. The company develops, produces, and installs Quatt Hybrid, a hybrid heat pump powered by smart software. Quatt is a market leader in the Netherlands and distinguishes itself by making heat pumps accessible, offering the best payback time, and using smart software. The rapidly growing company has about 160 employees and was founded in 2021 by brothers Marijn and Bas Flipse. They aim to help 3 million households transition to sustainable energy by 2030.

About Blue Earth Capital
Blue Earth Capital is a global, independent, specialist impact investor, headquartered in Switzerland, with operations in New York, London, and Konstanz. Blue Earth Capital seeks to address the world’s most pressing social and environmental challenges by delivering measurable impact alongside aiming for attractive and market-rate financial returns. The company operates dedicated private equity, private credit, and fund solutions. Blue Earth Capital is owned by the Blue Earth Foundation, a Stiftung (charity/trust) registered in Switzerland that focuses on deep impact to support initiatives and business ventures to help deliver a more equitable and sustainable future.

About Seaya Andromeda
Seaya Andromeda is a Pan-European Climate Tech Venture capital focused on growth. With €300M assets under management, Andromeda is an SFDR Article 9 fund on a mission to address global sustainability challenges and deliver profits with purpose through investments in technology-driven companies focusing on Energy, Decarbonization, the Circular Economy, and the Sustainable Food Value Chain. Seaya Andromeda is part of Seaya, the leading European Venture Capital platform, with offices in Madrid, Barcelona, and Mexico City. Seaya raised its first fund in 2013 and currently manages over €650 million across five early-stage venture funds. Seaya accelerates the growth of startups by leveraging the founder’s strategic vision, providing them with Seaya’s global platform, its extensive network of founders, investors, and multinational corporations, as well as all its experience in the worldwide expansion of companies such as Glovo, Cabify, Wallbox (NYSE:WBX), Clarity AI, Clicars, Alma and RatedPower.

About Impact Equity
Impact Equity Fund, based in the Netherlands, is committed to generating sustainable financial returns while driving measurable social and environmental impact. The firm invests in innovative enterprises that align with its core values of sustainability, equity, and transformative growth, leveraging its expertise and network to support ventures that contribute to a better society and environment.

 

Press contact

blueearthcapital@kekstcnc.com

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Legend Capital’s Portfolio Company Singfilm Solar Achieves Breakthrough in Perovskite Solar Cell Efficiency

Legend Capital

HONG KONG, July 15, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – Legend Capital’s portfolio company, Singfilm Solar, a leading innovator in the research and manufacturing of high-efficiency perovskite solar cells, has announced that its self-developed perovskite solar module has achieved a steady-state conversion efficiency of 22.6%, certified by authoritative institutions. This breakthrough has earned a place in the esteemed Martin Green Efficiency Table (Version 64), marking the third time Singfilm Solar’s innovations have been recognized by this authority. This achievement underscores Singfilm Solar’s pioneering status in the global perovskite field and highlights the potential for transitioning from laboratory research to commercial production.

Founded in July 2023 in Singapore, Singfilm Solar’s team brings over a decade of experience in perovskite materials, processes, and equipment. The company is focused on developing and producing highly efficient and stable perovskite cells.

The improvement of photovoltaic conversion efficiency is crucial, as each 1% increase can result in a 4% rise in power generation and revenue. Perovskite cells, with their ideal band gap width, offer theoretical efficiencies of over 33% for single-junction and 43% for tandem cells, far exceeding traditional crystalline silicon cells. This positions perovskite as the next-generation photovoltaic material.

Despite its potential, the widespread adoption of perovskite in the photovoltaic industry has been hindered by stability challenges. Achieving a balance between power conversion efficiency and operational stability under complex conditions, while also ensuring manufacturing scalability, remains a critical hurdle. Moreover, exploiting the unique properties of perovskite, such as adjustable band gap, lightweight, high efficiency, and simple raw materials, to develop various photovoltaic products for different applications is a significant challenge in its commercialization.

Singfilm Solar’s proprietary Quasi-Mono high-quality perovskite industrial preparation technology supports high-throughput continuous production on large rigid and flexible substrates. Accelerated aging tests have validated the commercial product’s lifespan, making Singfilm’s commercial-sized perovskite modules the first to combine high efficiency, stability, and manufacturability. The company holds several core technologies in perovskite materials, preparation methods, and cell and module structures.

The founder of Singfilm Solar, Professor Yi Hou, is a Presidential Young Professor at the National University of Singapore (NUS) and leads the Perovskite and Tandem Solar Cells group at the Solar Energy Research Institute of Singapore (SERIS). A pioneer in perovskite research, Professor Hou’s work has been published in top academic journals such as Science and Nature (https://blog.nus.edu.sg/yihoulab/). The establishment of Singfilm Solar has received substantial support from NUS, providing a strong scientific foundation for the company’s rapid development.

In early 2024, Legend Capital led a round of angel funding for Singfilm Solar. This financing aims to expand Singfilm’s pilot line in Singapore, enhance the R&D team, and develop a global client base.

Professor Yi Hou, founder of Singfilm Solar, stated:

We are standing at the pinnacle of a perovskite technology revolution, committed to transforming laboratory innovations into real-world applications. Singfilm has not only repeatedly broken the records of the power conversion efficiency of perovskite solar cells but has also continuously made significant progress in device stability and scalable manufacturability.

I am filled with anticipation and excitement for Singfilm’s first commercial project in Europe. This is not only a recognition of our team’s technological maturity but also an important step in showcasing innovative clean energy solutions to the world.

I would like to thank Legend Capital and all the partners who support Singfilm. It is your trust that allows us to keep moving forward. We look forward to welcoming a brighter future for perovskite technology together with you all.

Managing Director of Legend Capital, Wenlong Wang, commented:

Singfilm is dedicated to creating the next generation of mainstream photovoltaic products, attracting top experts in perovskite research and thin-film industrialization from around the world. The team possesses comprehensive and solid technical expertise, and what is even more commendable is their focus on addressing the challenges of mass production implementation from day one.

Legend Capital is fortunate to be part of this exciting entrepreneurial journey, actively providing support in equipment, materials, scenarios, and channels by leveraging its accumulated resources in the new energy industry. Congratulations to the company for breaking the world record in its debut, and I look forward to this young and high-potential team continuing to make breakthroughs and successfully achieving subsequent milestones.

About Legend Capital

Founded in 2001, Legend Capital is a leading VC&PE investor focusing on the early-stage and growth-stage opportunities in China, with offices across Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Hong Kong, Seoul and Singapore.

It currently manages USD and RMB funds of over US$10 billion in commitments, and has invested in around 600 companies, covering technology, healthcare, consumer, enterprise service and intelligent manufacturing sectors. Rooted in China, Legend Capital participated in the rise of many world-leading companies by solid investment coverage and systematic post-investment value-add. Over the years, Legend Capital has also become a widely recognized name in bridging key resources in China and overseas through cross-border activities, and a valuable partner to Chinese and overseas investors.

Legend Capital values long-term sustainable investment and incorporates ESG into its long-term development strategy. As a UNPRI signatory since November 2019, Legend Capital is among the first group of top VC/PE firms in China to join the initiative.

For more information, please visit www.legendcapital.com.cn/index_en.aspx and follow us on LinkedIn @Legend Capital.

The article is distributed by Ever Bloom (HK) Communications Consultants Group Limited on behalf of Legend Capital.

For further information, please contact:
Ms. Orianna Ou / Ms. Arina He
Tel: +852 3468 8171
Email: legendcapital.list@everbloom.com.cn


News URL: https://www.acnnewswire.com/press-release/english/91775/

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Ardian Clean Energy Evergreen Fund (ACEEF) is investing in French renewable energy producer UNITe

Ardian

UNITe is a multi-technology renewable power specialist with more than 1.5 GW of projects under development
• This investment will support a new chapter of growth for UNITe and reinforce Ardian’s commitment to sustainable energy further strengthening its global renewables platform

Ardian, a world-leading private investment house, today becomes the largest shareholder in UNITe, an independent power producer and developer, through its Clean Energy Evergreen Fund (ACEEF). This strategic investment further enhances Ardian’s renewable energy portfolio by expanding its assets in hydropower, photovoltaics, and wind power. Omnes, Bpifrance (Fonds Impact Environment team) which invested in 2018, and Société Générale Capital Partenaires, which invested in 2010, agreed to sell their stake in UNITe to Ardian after successfully completing the objective they set themselves, in which UNITe has consolidated its position as an independent power producer and developer.

The UNITe – Hydrowatt Group is recognised as the leading independent player in small hydro in France, with 36 powerplants, and one of the most promising photovoltaic developers. Last year, UNITe was ranked third nationally for tenders issued by the Commission de Regulation de l’Energie.

Since 2019, UNITe has decided to significantly grow its photovoltaic development, with projects in France totalling 1.5 GWp in capacity over the coming years. Over 2023, UNITe has completed a first stage of 11 projects (140 MWp) scheduled to be operational by 2025. Ardian’s long-term support, UNITe will pursue its renewable energy strategy, participate in the expansion of these energies and embark on its next stage of development. Through ACEEF, its evergreen fund, Ardian will continue to support UNITe’s growth by helping to finance its current and future projects.

For almost 40 years, the UNITe Group has been reconciling the need for energy with respect for the environment. Today, UNITe is one of the leading independent producers of low-carbon, local, sustainable and competitive electricity in France.

Through its subsidiary GREEN-ACCESS, the group is also a leader in the valorization of green energy., notably through the sale of Guarantees of Origin and start the negotiation of contracts for the direct supply of renewable electricity to industrial consumers.

Ardian will also provide UNITe with its OPTA digital renewable energy asset management tool. OPTA is Ardian’s in-house data analytics tool designed to optimize the management of renewable energy portfolios and monitor market risk for renewable assets worldwide. Ardian now tracks more than 2.5 GW of renewable assets through OPTA.

“Through ACEEF, Ardian’s mission is to offer investors the opportunity to grow their exposure to renewables and the energy transition, and to support the development of this important sector. UNITe is an exciting addition to Ardian’s portfolio. We are excited to partner with this historically family-run business and support the impressive management team in their ambitious growth plan.” Benjamin Kennedy, Managing Director Renewables Infrastructure, Ardian

“Through this investment, UNITe will benefit from Ardian’s support as a long-term financial partner, well-adapted for supporting the group’s strong growth strategy. I am proud to be moving forward with UNITe’s formidable team, while preserving our convictions and our unique state of mind..” Alexandre Albanel, President, UNITe

Ardian is a pioneer in the energy transition, having started investing in renewable assets in 2007. Across all Infrastructure Funds, the team manages a renewable energy portfolio of more than 8GW of heat and renewable energy capacity in Europe and the Americas, and over $28bn assets under management across the globe. ACEEF will continue to focus on core renewable assets including solar, wind, and hydro, as well as emerging technologies across biogas, biomass, energy storage, and energy efficiency.

Recent investments made through the fund include the acquisitions of a Peru-based hydropower company, the diversified renewable energy platform ICQ Holding, and multiple wind parks in Finland, where fund also invested in the development and construction of Finnish Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects.

The deal is subject to the usual regulatory approvals.

LIST OF PARTICIPANTS

  • ARDIAN

    • M&A: ASTRIS FINANCE
    • LEGAL: GIDE LOYRETTE NOUEL
    • TECHNICAL AND ESG: EVEROZE
    • MARKET ADVISOR: AFRY
    • TAX AND FINANCE: KPMG
    • INSURANCE AND W&I: MARSH
  • UNITE

    • M&A : BNP PARIBAS
    • LEGAL (M&A) : LINKLATERS, LPP
    • TECHNICAL AND ESG: NATURAL POWER, ARTELIA
    • LEGAL, TAX AND FINANCE DD: LPA, DELOITTE, DELOITTE SOCIÉTÉ D’AVOCATS
    • INSURANCE AND W&I: MARSH, LPA
  • SELLERS’ CONSORTIUM: OMNES CAPITAL, BPIFRANCE ET SOCIÉTÉ GÉNÉRALE CAPITAL PARTENAIRES

    • M&A: BNP PARIBAS
    • LEGAL: CLIFFORD CHANCE
    • TECHNICAL AND ESG: NATURAL POWER, ARTELIA
    • TAX AND FINANCE: DELOITTE, DELOITTE SOCIÉTÉ D’AVOCATS

ABOUT ARDIAN

Ardian is a world-leading private investment house, managing or advising $166bn of assets on behalf of more than 1,600 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’s main shareholding group is its employees and we place great emphasis on developing its people and fostering a collaborative culture based on collective intelligence. Our 1,050+ employees, spread across 19 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.

ABOUT UNITE

For almost 40 years, the UNITe group has been working to combine the need for energy with respect for the environment. Today, UNITe is one of the leading independent producers of low-carbon, local, sustainable and competitive electricity in France, with more than 60 production sites. Through its subsidiary GREEN-ACCESS, the group is also a leader in energy recovery, notably through the sale of Guarantees of Origin and start the negotiation of contracts for the direct supply of renewable electricity to industrial consumers.
UNITe is an independent, agile and financially solid group, rooted in the regions and with recognised expertise in the renewable energy sector. Led by Alexandre ALBANEL and Stéphane MAUREAU, the group is currently undergoing a phase of sustained growth.
UNITe is one of the few companies still regularly building hydroelectric power stations in France. In addition, the company leases a large amount of land in France on a very long-term basis (35 years or more) to develop ground-based photovoltaic installations, often in synergy with an agricultural activity.

ABOUT OMNES CAPITAL

Omnes is a leading private equity firm dedicated to energy transition and innovation. With €6 billion in assets under management, our teams support long-term partnerships with entrepreneurs through our four core businesses: renewable energy, sustainable cities, deeptech and co-investment. For over 20 years, Omnes has been applying its expertise to help businesses grow in more than 15 countries, with a particular focus on sustainable development. As part of its approach as a responsible investor, the company has created the Omnes Foundation to support non-profit organisations working for children and young people in the fields of education, health, social and economic integration.

ABOUT BPIFRANCE

Bpifrance finances companies – at every stage of their development – with credit, guarantees and equity capital. Bpifrance supports them in their innovation and international development projects. Bpifrance now also covers their export activities through a wide range of products. Consulting, university, networking and acceleration programs for startups, SMEs and ETIs are also part of the offer available to entrepreneurs. Thanks to Bpifrance and its 50 regional offices, entrepreneurs benefit from a close, single and efficient contact to help them face their challenges.
Within Bpifrance’s Private Equity direct investment team, (28 Bn€ AuM, 700 portfolio companies), the Impact & Environment team (500 M€ AuM, 40 portfolio companies) invests in climate & environmental solutions. The team’s mission is to structure the energy and ecological transition sectors by providing equity solutions as well as the tailorized support needed for the growth of key players active in addressed sectors.

Follow us on Twitter: @Bpifrance @BpifrancePresse

ABOUT SOCIETE GENERALE CAPITAL PARTENAIRES

Société Générale Capital Partenaires (SGCP) supports shareholder-managers of SMEs and ETIs in their development and proximity approach. SGCP takes minority stakes in companies’ capital, with investments ranging from €1 million to €35 million in various contexts: development through external or organic growth, capital transfer, shareholder restructuring, and financial structure optimization. Each year, SGCP teams, based in Paris, Lille, Strasbourg, Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, and Rennes, invest between €150 million and €200 million in around twenty operations, reaffirming their long-term commitment to supporting business financing and the economy.

MEDIA CONTACTS

ARDIAN

UNITE

OPEN2EUROPE

a.noel@open2europe.comh.bouali@open2europe.com

OMNES CAPITAL

BPI FRANCE

JULIETTE FONTANILLAS

juliette.fontanillas@bpifrance.fr

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Emera Completes Transaction To Transfer Equity Interest In Labrador Island Link

KKR

HALIFAX, Nova Scotia–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Emera Inc. (“Emera”) (TSX:EMA) today announced the previously announced transaction where KKR would acquire Emera’s indirect minority equity interest in the Labrador Island Link (LIL), has closed effective today. The LIL is a 1,100 km high voltage transmission line that delivers renewable energy to Newfoundland, Nova Scotia and beyond, helping meet the growing demand for clean energy across the region. The transaction was originally announced on May 28, 2024.

About Emera
Emera Inc. is a geographically diverse energy and services company headquartered in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with approximately $39 billion in assets and 2023 revenues of $7.6 billion. The company primarily invests in regulated electricity generation and electricity and gas transmission and distribution with a strategic focus on transformation from high carbon to low carbon energy sources. Emera has investments in Canada, the United States and in three Caribbean countries. Emera’s common and preferred shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange and trade respectively under the symbol EMA, EMA.PR.A, EMA.PR.B, EMA.PR.C, EMA.PR.E, EMA.PR.F, EMA.PR.H, EMA.PR.J and EMA.PR.L. Depositary receipts representing common shares of Emera are listed on the Barbados Stock Exchange under the symbol EMABDR and on The Bahamas International Securities Exchange under the symbol EMAB. Additional information can be accessed at www.emera.com or at www.sedarplus.ca.

Forward Looking Information
This news release contains forward‐looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including statements concerning the acquisition of Emera’s indirect interest in the LIL by KKR, Emera’s future financial performance, the service life of the LIL, Emera’s engagement in the LIL, including future sustaining capital investments, and market conditions and demand for clean energy in Atlantic Canada in the future. Undue reliance should not be placed on this forward-looking information, which applies only as of the date hereof. By its nature, forward‐looking information requires Emera to make assumptions and is subject to inherent risks and uncertainties. These statements reflect Emera management’s current beliefs and are based on information currently available to Emera management. There is a risk that predictions, forecasts, conclusions and projections that constitute forward‐looking information will not prove to be accurate, that Emera’s assumptions may not be correct and that actual results may differ materially from such forward‐looking information. Additional detailed information about these assumptions, risks and uncertainties is included in Emera’s securities regulatory filings, including under the heading “Business Risks and Risk Management” in Emera’s annual Management’s Discussion and Analysis, and under the heading “Principal Risks and Uncertainties” in the notes to Emera’s annual and interim financial statements, which can be found on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Contacts

Media
Dina Bartolacci Seely
media@emera.com

 

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Blackstone and Vista Equity Partners Complete Acquisition of Energy Exemplar

Blackstone

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, May 9, 2024 – Energy Exemplar, a leading global provider of energy market simulation software, today announced the completion of its acquisition by private equity funds affiliated with Blackstone (”Blackstone”) and Vista Equity Partners (“Vista”).

“Completing our transaction with Blackstone and Vista marks the beginning of an exciting partnership that will accelerate investment in our leading SaaS platform providing accurate simulation and decision support for our customers in today’s rapidly changing energy landscape,” said David Wilson, CEO of Energy Exemplar. “I’d like to thank everyone across the Energy Exemplar organization for their unwavering commitment throughout this process and for maintaining exceptional service to our clients as we continue to grow as one global team.”

“Software is a vital component of the global energy transition, and Energy Exemplar provides critical modeling and analytics solutions to customers across the industry to help them become more efficient, reliable and profitable,” said Ryan Atlas, Managing Director at Vista Equity Partners. “We look forward to partnering with David, Blackstone and the entire Energy Exemplar team during this exciting next phase of growth.”

Bilal Khan, Senior Managing Director at Blackstone Energy Transition Partners, added: “We’re thrilled to be backing Energy Exemplar, a mission-critical software provider supporting the growth of renewable energy, battery storage, and transmission grid investment required for the energy transition. Blackstone’s energy market expertise and network of connections can enhance the company’s growth trajectory. We couldn’t be more excited to work with Vista, David, and the management team to drive the next stage of development for Energy Exemplar and its technology solutions supporting grid reliability and decarbonization. This investment is the latest in a series demonstrating Blackstone’s conviction in the energy transition.”

About Energy Exemplar

Energy Exemplar is a market leader in the technology of optimization-based energy market simulation. Our cloud software suite, headlined by PLEXOS® and Aurora, is used across every region of the world for a wide range of applications, from short-term analysis to long-term planning studies. It is relied upon by hundreds of organizations worldwide to inform multi-million-dollar decisions. Our people continually think of novel approaches and more realistic simulations that enhance decision making, create market opportunities and enable utilities and regulatory authorities to become smarter, more energy efficient and profitable. Energy Exemplar continues to ‘push the envelope,’ being first-to-market with the latest advances in programming and energy market simulations, as it strives to offer the most comprehensive energy analytics platform to its customer base.

Blackstone Energy Transition Partners

Blackstone Energy Transition Partners is Blackstone’s energy-focused private equity business, a leading energy investor with a successful long-term record, having invested over $21 billion of equity globally across a broad range of sectors within the energy industry. Our investment philosophy is based on backing exceptional management teams with flexible capital to provide solutions that help energy companies grow and improve performance, thereby delivering cleaner, more reliable, and affordable energy to meet the needs of the global community. In the process, we build stronger, larger scale enterprises, create jobs and generate lasting value for our investors, employees and all stakeholders.

About Vista Equity Partners

Vista is a leading global investment firm with more than $101 billion in assets under management as of September 30, 2023. The firm exclusively invests in enterprise software, data and technology-enabled organizations across private equity, permanent capital, credit and public equity strategies, bringing an approach that prioritizes creating enduring market value for the benefit of its global ecosystem of investors, companies, customers and employees. Vista’s investments are anchored by a sizable long-term capital base, experience in structuring technology-oriented transactions and proven, flexible management techniques that drive sustainable growth. Vista believes the transformative power of technology is the key to an even better future – a healthier planet, a smarter economy, a diverse and inclusive community and a broader path to prosperity. Further information is available at vistaequitypartners.com. Follow Vista on LinkedIn, @Vista Equity Partners, and on X, @Vista_Equity.

Media Contacts

For Energy Exemplar
Erin Marks
Erin.marks@energyexemplar.com
(636)-686-8649

For Blackstone
Kate Holderness
Kate.holderness@blackstone.com
(917) 318-6818

For Vista Equity Partners
Brian Steel
media@vistaequitypartners.com
(212) 804-9170

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