MAJOR INVESTMENT POWERS PROJECT BETTER ENERGY

Project Better Energy (PBE) has received major investment from private equity house Freshstream.

Founded in 2012, PBE has evolved from a solar solutions specialist to a market leader in the UK’s green energy sector, delivering an extensive range of applications to serve growing residential and commercial demands.

Across its core brands — Project Solar UK, Project EV, Project Curv and Zanussi — the Burton upon Trent-based organisation offers solar panels, battery storage, commercial EV chargers and domestic energy sources on a wholesale basis.

Throughout the process, PBE’s shareholders were advised by David Gardner, Jack Ford and Stuart Lees of KBS Corporate.

David Gardner advised: “PBE has successfully introduced a complete service offering to the green energy market. The business has built on its initial solar offering for the direct-to-consumer market and is now exploring relationships with national housebuilders and commercial leaders to deliver a variety of energy-efficient applications.

“With evolving regulations across the UK, including the mandatory laws relating to the installation of EV charging stations with all new properties, PBE is preparing to explore commercial opportunities at the right time.”

The strength of PBE’s offering led to significant interest from trade buyers and investors in the M&A market; however, Freshstream’s long-term objectives aligned perfectly with PBE’s goals.

Operating across Western Europe, Freshstream has established itself as a major private equity house with a particular focus on the UK and Benelux markets.

Freshstream invests in organisations that demonstrate strong cultural values and contribute positively to society. The firm’s existing portfolio includes UK investments such as Taziker, Radley London, DeterTech and Avicenna.

Simon Peat, CEO of PBE, said: “We are thrilled to be teaming up with Freshstream and look forward to working together as we continue our ambitious growth strategy. Their expertise and investment will enable us to further accelerate our expansion plans, both organically and through acquisitions.”

Gilles Gradassi, Freshstream Director, is also excited to see PBE grow over the coming years: “Following a series of legislative and policy commitments to mitigate the impact of global climate change, there has never been a more important time to invest in solutions aimed at expanding clean power availability and energy efficiency.

“PBE is one of the most exciting players in the UK green solutions market and the investment in the business demonstrates our commitment to supporting innovative, entrepreneurial companies solving complex issues, including the decarbonisation of the economy.

“Reaching net zero will not be achievable without private capital investment and we are confident that PBE will continue to find innovative, cost-effective solutions to support consumers, businesses and local authorities through the energy transition and make a real difference.”

David Gardner added: “PBE was a fantastic opportunity to present to investors across the industry. Freshstream has a great knowledge base and the resources required to succeed in the growing green energy space.

“PBE has made the necessary changes to cement itself at the forefront of its industry, and with Freshstream’s partnership, the business can continue to grow organically and fulfil an array of exciting commercial opportunities over the coming years.

“We have closed a collaborative deal and I am delighted that everyone is eager to see how PBE can develop with Freshstream’s investment.”

During the process, PBE was supported by Ian Roberts, Kirsty Wilson, Richard Life and Kelly Clarke of TLT Solicitors. Grant Thornton and the Wilkes Partnership advised Freshstream throughout the transaction.