Ardian’s open-ended clean energy fund has become the largest shareholder in French renewable-energy producer UNITe by acquiring interests previously held by Omnes, Bpifrance and Société Générale Capital Partenaires.
Ardian’s Clean Energy Evergreen Fund (ACEEF) has invested an unspecified amount for its stake in UNITe and will support the firm’s growth by helping to finance its current and future projects.
Société Générale Capital Partenaires invested in UNITe in 2010 and Omnes and Bpifrance invested in 2018.
UNITe – known for its hydroelectric plants, wind farms and photovoltaic installations – has been ramping up its photovoltaic development efforts since 2019. The company has a 1.5GWp pipeline of projects in France expected to come online in the coming years.
Benjamin Kennedy, managing director of renewable infrastructure at Ardian, said: “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.”
Alexandre Albanel, president of UNITe, said: “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.”
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