CIP partners with Welsh developer for gigascale wind and solar portfolio

Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners has entered into a partnership with Bute Energy to invest in the local developer’s portfolio of onshore wind farms, PV projects and co-located battery energy storage systems in Wales.

The Danish company will invest in the portfolio via is Copenhagen Infrastructure IV K/S fund.

First projects are expected to start construction next year, with more than 2GW of the pipeline possibly reaching operations by 2030.

“We look forward to supporting Bute’s development activities and contributing our own expertise in the delivery of large-scale renewable infrastructure investments to deliver projects that will make a significant contribution to the green transition,” said Christian Skakkebæk, senior partner at CIP.

Bute will continue to lead the development activities, while CIP plans to contribute its expertise in the procurement and financing of large-scale renewable energy projects. CIP also said extensive engagement and consultation with stakeholders and local communities in the planning process for developments will be carried out.

Bute chairman Erik Bonino said CIP’s investment will allow it speed up the development of its portfolio and bring significant supply chain and economic benefits to Wales.

“Our first onshore wind planning application will be made in the summer of 2022 for the Twyn Hywel Energy Park, located largely within a pre-assessed area for wind energy in Southeast Wales,” Bonino said.

“We look forward to making a meaningful contribution to the Welsh government’s renewable energy targets as well as delivering significant benefits for local communities.”