RBC Capital Markets Advises CIP on Sale of 50% Stake in Europe’s Largest BESS Project to AXA IM Alts

RBC Capital Markets acted as exclusive financial adviser to Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) on the sale of a 50% stake in Coalburn 1, Europe's largest battery energy storage system project, to AXA IM Alts.

Transaction highlights

CIP logo

The transaction provides CIP with a powerful strategic partnership, combining its development expertise with AXA’s investment capabilities.

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Europe’s largest
operational BESS located
in Scotland

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AXA IM Alts'
first investment
in the UK energy
storage sector

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Forward-sale transaction
with completion upon
commissioning

 

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Europe's Largest Operational BESS

"Coalburn 1 will be Europe's largest operational battery energy storage system upon commissioning."

Delivering
Value Creation

RBC Capital Markets acted as exclusive financial adviser to CIP in structuring and executing the sale of a 50% stake in Coalburn 1 to AXA IM Alts.

Upon commissioning, Coalburn 1 will be Europe's largest operational battery energy storage system (BESS), enhancing grid stability and supporting the UK's transition to renewable energy.

The transaction provides CIP with a powerful strategic partnership, combining its development expertise with AXA's investment capabilities, while securing long-term revenue streams through established agreements.


Accelerating
strategic support

RBC Capital Markets' longstanding relationship with CIP and deep sector expertise enabled the successful execution of this complex transaction. The deal structure – a forward-sale with completion upon commissioning – allows CIP to de-risk the project while attracting a partner aligned with its strategic objectives.

AXA IM Alts' entry into the UK energy storage market through this investment underscores the growing institutional interest in energy transition assets. The partnership also leverages AXA's financial strength and commitment to sustainable investments, complementing CIP's development capabilities.

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Strategic Partnership Formation

“The transaction establishes a powerful strategic partnership between CIP and AXA IM Alts in the UK energy storage sector.”


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Enhancing UK's Energy Security

“Coalburn 1 contributes significantly to the UK's energy security and renewable integration efforts.”

Executing
for success

RBC Capital Markets' role encompassed comprehensive financial advisory services, including deal structuring, valuation, and negotiation support. Drawing on deep sector knowledge in power, utilities, and infrastructure – alongside detailed knowledge of the BESS market – RBC Capital Markets played a pivotal role in securing a successful result.

The transaction not only reflects the value of Coalburn 1 as a standalone asset but also enhances CIP's broader BESS portfolio, which includes additional projects like Coalburn 2 and Devilla, collectively contributing to the UK's energy security and net-zero goals.


Our experts

Ross Board profile

Ross Board
Managing Director, Utilities & Renewables, RBC Capital Markets

Sarah Smith profile

Sarah Smith
Director, Energy Transition, RBC Capital Markets

Ralph Ibendahl profile

Ralph Ibendahl
Global Head of Energy Transition, RBC Capital Markets

Sources

  • AXA IM Alts Press Release, April 28, 2025
  • Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners Press Release, April 28, 2025

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