Building a brighter future

18/10/22
5 min
Renewable energy
Insight

To accelerate the UK’s transition to net zero, the nation requires a mix of renewable power sources and solar energy is a key player in this mix.

As of the end of September 2021, there were 1.1 million solar installations across the UK.* Pursuing the development and operation of these solar farms has now become an intergenerational responsibility.

Green energy education

To continue this legacy, Downing is pleased to be partnering with Earth Energy Education, a company dedicated to getting children out of the classroom and visiting renewable energy sites across the UK to educate them about green energy.  

During the 2021/22 school year, Earth Energy Education facilitated 10 school visits to several ground-mounted solar projects managed by Downing. During these trips, the children will learn what makes solar energy renewable and its environmental benefits. Perhaps most importantly, the children learnt about the relationship between climate and energy consumption - important knowledge when addressing climate change.

Additionally, Earth Energy Education arranged five classroom “solar toy design and make days" leading to one big inter-school solar car race day.  By constructing solar toys and sun-fuelled cars, children were able to get to grips with how solar technology can be used in a hands-on session.

Finally, the group held five “power your school” workshops. Working with a UK-wide network of scientists, children had the opportunity to record energy data in their school. They will use this data to design the best location to install solar panels or wind turbines. It will be a valuable exercise for the children who will learn about the efficiencies of installing renewable energy generators.  

In all, these vital sessions will hopefully inspire around 1300 children. With these children, the future of solar is looking bright.  

An intergenerational responsibility

Downing’s Head of Asset Management, Tom Moore, underlined the importance of passing on practical knowledge of renewable energy: “We are proud to be partnering with Earth Energy Education. Dedicated time to facilitate education around solar power is  an important steppingstone in our pathway to net zero. While a lot of the responsibility for action still lies with our generation, if we can inspire children about the role of solar in tackling climate change, we can make some tangible and sustainable steps in creating a viable renewable energy mix.”  

Earth Energy Education’s Lorna Lyle also commented: “We are proud that Downing chose us to be their educational delivery partner. We cannot wait to share our real-life learning experiences with the schools near their sites. Through our partnership, we will be organising school visits to Downing-managed solar farms where children will learn more about light, electricity, renewable energy and ways to combat climate change. 

We will be able to deliver our Power Your School workshop with five schools helping to move the schools towards a net zero future. We will also be working with several schools bringing them together to develop solar toys and solar cars. 

With this partnership, we hope to break down barriers for children entering into STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) careers and inspire the next generation to achieve their goals.”

*https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/solar-photovoltaics-deployment  

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To accelerate the UK’s transition to net zero, the nation requires a mix of renewable power sources and solar energy is a key player in this mix.

As of the end of September 2021, there were 1.1 million solar installations across the UK.* Pursuing the development and operation of these solar farms has now become an intergenerational responsibility.

Green energy education

To continue this legacy, Downing is pleased to be partnering with Earth Energy Education, a company dedicated to getting children out of the classroom and visiting renewable energy sites across the UK to educate them about green energy.  

During the 2021/22 school year, Earth Energy Education facilitated 10 school visits to several ground-mounted solar projects managed by Downing. During these trips, the children will learn what makes solar energy renewable and its environmental benefits. Perhaps most importantly, the children learnt about the relationship between climate and energy consumption - important knowledge when addressing climate change.

Additionally, Earth Energy Education arranged five classroom “solar toy design and make days" leading to one big inter-school solar car race day.  By constructing solar toys and sun-fuelled cars, children were able to get to grips with how solar technology can be used in a hands-on session.

Finally, the group held five “power your school” workshops. Working with a UK-wide network of scientists, children had the opportunity to record energy data in their school. They will use this data to design the best location to install solar panels or wind turbines. It will be a valuable exercise for the children who will learn about the efficiencies of installing renewable energy generators.  

In all, these vital sessions will hopefully inspire around 1300 children. With these children, the future of solar is looking bright.  

An intergenerational responsibility

Downing’s Head of Asset Management, Tom Moore, underlined the importance of passing on practical knowledge of renewable energy: “We are proud to be partnering with Earth Energy Education. Dedicated time to facilitate education around solar power is  an important steppingstone in our pathway to net zero. While a lot of the responsibility for action still lies with our generation, if we can inspire children about the role of solar in tackling climate change, we can make some tangible and sustainable steps in creating a viable renewable energy mix.”  

Earth Energy Education’s Lorna Lyle also commented: “We are proud that Downing chose us to be their educational delivery partner. We cannot wait to share our real-life learning experiences with the schools near their sites. Through our partnership, we will be organising school visits to Downing-managed solar farms where children will learn more about light, electricity, renewable energy and ways to combat climate change. 

We will be able to deliver our Power Your School workshop with five schools helping to move the schools towards a net zero future. We will also be working with several schools bringing them together to develop solar toys and solar cars. 

With this partnership, we hope to break down barriers for children entering into STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) careers and inspire the next generation to achieve their goals.”

*https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/solar-photovoltaics-deployment  

We are delighted to announce that Mark Gross, Partner and Head of Development Capital, has been named Equity Investor of the year at the HealthInvestor Power List 2024 Awards.

Following Mark’s achievement last year when he won the “Leading Investor” award at HealthInvestor’s Power50, this year’s win further highlights his continued success and expertise in investing across the healthcare sector. 

The judges praised Mark for finding success both in value and volume this year, delivering good returns and growth. They were impressed by how Mark has continued to strengthen a strong track record with further growth in the team and new funds securing further backing. We extend our thanks to Mark and the Downing Development Capital team for their continued dedication and support in expanding our healthcare investment activities with a focus on quality, performance and reputation. 

Congratulations Mark!

Development Capital  

Downing Development Capital is an award-winning investor focused on investment opportunities into asset-backed operating businesses with downside protection. Typical sectors they invest in include healthcare, specialist education, hospitality, leisure and IT infrastructure.

Learn more about our Development Capital team

To accelerate the UK’s transition to net zero, the nation requires a mix of renewable power sources and solar energy is a key player in this mix.

As of the end of September 2021, there were 1.1 million solar installations across the UK.* Pursuing the development and operation of these solar farms has now become an intergenerational responsibility.

Green energy education

To continue this legacy, Downing is pleased to be partnering with Earth Energy Education, a company dedicated to getting children out of the classroom and visiting renewable energy sites across the UK to educate them about green energy.  

During the 2021/22 school year, Earth Energy Education facilitated 10 school visits to several ground-mounted solar projects managed by Downing. During these trips, the children will learn what makes solar energy renewable and its environmental benefits. Perhaps most importantly, the children learnt about the relationship between climate and energy consumption - important knowledge when addressing climate change.

Additionally, Earth Energy Education arranged five classroom “solar toy design and make days" leading to one big inter-school solar car race day.  By constructing solar toys and sun-fuelled cars, children were able to get to grips with how solar technology can be used in a hands-on session.

Finally, the group held five “power your school” workshops. Working with a UK-wide network of scientists, children had the opportunity to record energy data in their school. They will use this data to design the best location to install solar panels or wind turbines. It will be a valuable exercise for the children who will learn about the efficiencies of installing renewable energy generators.  

In all, these vital sessions will hopefully inspire around 1300 children. With these children, the future of solar is looking bright.  

An intergenerational responsibility

Downing’s Head of Asset Management, Tom Moore, underlined the importance of passing on practical knowledge of renewable energy: “We are proud to be partnering with Earth Energy Education. Dedicated time to facilitate education around solar power is  an important steppingstone in our pathway to net zero. While a lot of the responsibility for action still lies with our generation, if we can inspire children about the role of solar in tackling climate change, we can make some tangible and sustainable steps in creating a viable renewable energy mix.”  

Earth Energy Education’s Lorna Lyle also commented: “We are proud that Downing chose us to be their educational delivery partner. We cannot wait to share our real-life learning experiences with the schools near their sites. Through our partnership, we will be organising school visits to Downing-managed solar farms where children will learn more about light, electricity, renewable energy and ways to combat climate change. 

We will be able to deliver our Power Your School workshop with five schools helping to move the schools towards a net zero future. We will also be working with several schools bringing them together to develop solar toys and solar cars. 

With this partnership, we hope to break down barriers for children entering into STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) careers and inspire the next generation to achieve their goals.”

*https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/solar-photovoltaics-deployment  

Basking in the sun: nine solar policy essentials
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Torsten Mack, Investment Director at Downing, said:

"We are proud to support this exceptional management team, whose strong track record positions them well to build a new business in dementia care. This needs-based sector is underpinned by a lack of quality supply and we are investing in Fortava Healthcare to set and deliver high standards, and to help make a difference."

Johann van Zyl, CEO at Fortava, added:

"I’m thrilled to be working with Jamie, as we share the same values. We plan to grow Fortava into a leading provider of dementia care over the next five to seven years. But growth isn’t our primary focus—our goal is to deliver outstanding care and foster a joyful, supportive environment for both residents and staff. We’re delighted to be partnering with Downing who also share our values and we look forward to this journey with them."

Jamie Stuart, CFO at Fortava, commented:

“For me, it's about being more than just another care home provider. While dementia care in the UK is generally of a good standard, we want to set ourselves apart with a fresh approach. That’s why, after over 25 years in banking, I chose to partner with Johann and Downing on this venture.”

To accelerate the UK’s transition to net zero, the nation requires a mix of renewable power sources and solar energy is a key player in this mix.

As of the end of September 2021, there were 1.1 million solar installations across the UK.* Pursuing the development and operation of these solar farms has now become an intergenerational responsibility.

Green energy education

To continue this legacy, Downing is pleased to be partnering with Earth Energy Education, a company dedicated to getting children out of the classroom and visiting renewable energy sites across the UK to educate them about green energy.  

During the 2021/22 school year, Earth Energy Education facilitated 10 school visits to several ground-mounted solar projects managed by Downing. During these trips, the children will learn what makes solar energy renewable and its environmental benefits. Perhaps most importantly, the children learnt about the relationship between climate and energy consumption - important knowledge when addressing climate change.

Additionally, Earth Energy Education arranged five classroom “solar toy design and make days" leading to one big inter-school solar car race day.  By constructing solar toys and sun-fuelled cars, children were able to get to grips with how solar technology can be used in a hands-on session.

Finally, the group held five “power your school” workshops. Working with a UK-wide network of scientists, children had the opportunity to record energy data in their school. They will use this data to design the best location to install solar panels or wind turbines. It will be a valuable exercise for the children who will learn about the efficiencies of installing renewable energy generators.  

In all, these vital sessions will hopefully inspire around 1300 children. With these children, the future of solar is looking bright.  

An intergenerational responsibility

Downing’s Head of Asset Management, Tom Moore, underlined the importance of passing on practical knowledge of renewable energy: “We are proud to be partnering with Earth Energy Education. Dedicated time to facilitate education around solar power is  an important steppingstone in our pathway to net zero. While a lot of the responsibility for action still lies with our generation, if we can inspire children about the role of solar in tackling climate change, we can make some tangible and sustainable steps in creating a viable renewable energy mix.”  

Earth Energy Education’s Lorna Lyle also commented: “We are proud that Downing chose us to be their educational delivery partner. We cannot wait to share our real-life learning experiences with the schools near their sites. Through our partnership, we will be organising school visits to Downing-managed solar farms where children will learn more about light, electricity, renewable energy and ways to combat climate change. 

We will be able to deliver our Power Your School workshop with five schools helping to move the schools towards a net zero future. We will also be working with several schools bringing them together to develop solar toys and solar cars. 

With this partnership, we hope to break down barriers for children entering into STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) careers and inspire the next generation to achieve their goals.”

*https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/solar-photovoltaics-deployment  

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Downing LLP does not provide advice or make personal recommendations and investors are strongly urged to seek independent advice before investing. Investments offered on this website carry a higher risk than many other types of investment and prospective investors should be aware that capital is at risk and the value of their investment may go down as well as up. Any investment should only be made on the basis of the relevant product literature and your attention is drawn to the risk, fees and taxation factors contained therein. Tax treatment depends on individual circumstances of each investor and may be subject to change in the future. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Downing LLP is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Firm Reference Number 545025). Registered in England No. OC341575. Registered Office: Downing, 10 Lower Thames Street, London, EC3R 6AF.

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