Thrive Renewables Joins Forces with Better Society Capital for Community Energy Projects
Deal News | Mar 11, 2025 | Big Society Capital
Thrive Renewables plc, a leader in the renewable energy sector, has entered into a strategic partnership with Better Society Capital, a prominent UK social impact investor, to launch a £40 million initiative named Community Energy Catalyst. This joint venture aims to empower local communities across the UK to develop and own renewable energy projects, such as wind and solar installations. With investments ranging from £0.5 million to £30 million, the initiative will focus on projects already approved for planning, facilitating their progress through construction and operation. Thrive Renewables brings three decades of industry experience to the partnership, adding significant value in terms of finance and infrastructure development support. Better Society Capital will contribute its extensive expertise in social impact investing. The collaboration highlights a growing trend towards community ownership in the renewable energy sector, aiming to enhance local engagement and secure economic and social benefits. The partners hope this venture will act as a significant driver for growth in community energy initiatives in the UK's journey towards net zero emissions.
Sectors
- Renewable Energy
- Social Impact Investment
Geography
- United Kingdom – Both Thrive Renewables and Better Society Capital are UK-based entities, and the projects target community energy initiatives within the UK.
Industry
- Renewable Energy – The article discusses the development and funding of wind and solar projects, which fall under the Renewable Energy sector.
- Social Impact Investment – The involvement of Better Society Capital, a social impact investor, indicates an intersection with social finance aimed at addressing broader societal issues through investment.
Financials
- £40 million – The total investment earmarked for the Community Energy Catalyst initiative.
- £20 million – Contribution from Thrive Renewables through Fair Play Clean Energy for the joint venture.
- £0.5 million to £30 million – Range of investments in individual renewable energy projects under the Community Energy Catalyst initiative.
Participants
Name | Role | Type | Description |
---|---|---|---|
Thrive Renewables plc | Joint Venture Partner | Company | A renewable energy investment company in the UK with extensive experience in funding, building, and operating renewable projects. |
Better Society Capital | Joint Venture Partner | Company | The UK’s leading social impact investor focusing on growing investments that tackle social issues. |
Top Cashback Sustainability Ltd | Existing Joint Venture Partner | Company | Partner in Thrive's existing venture, Fair Play Clean Energy, contributing to clean energy projects. |
Matthew Clayton | Managing Director of Thrive Renewables | Person | Provides leadership and strategic direction for Thrive Renewables in its clean energy initiatives. |
Joe Shamash | Investment Director at Better Society Capital | Person | Oversees the investment strategy for Better Society Capital’s participation in the joint venture. |