NextEnergy Capital Powers Up 130MW of New Solar, Doubling NPUK’s Operational Capacity

NextEnergy Capital (NEC) has announced the successful energisation of two utility-scale solar projects—Inkersall (70MW) and Crifton (60MW)—through its £733 million UK-focused solar fund, NextPower UK ESG (NPUK). This milestone raises the fund’s operational capacity to 318MW, more than doubling from 139MW just a year ago. To mark the occasion, NEC welcomed key representatives from the National Wealth Fund and Local Government Pension Schemes (LGPS), including LGPS Central and the West Yorkshire Pension Fund, to Inkersall’s official opening ceremony. Located in Nottinghamshire, both projects fall within the LGPS catchment area and reflect NPUK’s commitment to place-based investing—delivering clean energy and economic value through local job creation and infrastructure development. Ross Grier, Chief Investment Officer, NextEnergy Capital, said, “The energisation of these two significant UK solar projects underlines our leadership in delivering clean, secure, and sustainable energy for the UK. NextPower UK ESG is perfectly positioned to channel more UK capital into UK infrastructure — creating local jobs, driving energy independence, and supporting the UK’s Net Zero ambitions. We welcome the support of institutional investors and UK pension funds to continue building a cleaner, more resilient energy future for our communities.”

Nadeem Hussain, Head of Private Markets, LGPS Central, commented, “We are committed to investing in high-quality infrastructure opportunities that align with both financial objectives and sustainability principles on behalf of our Partner Funds. NextPower UK ESG offers long-term, stable returns from utility-scale solar farms while driving meaningful environmental impact”.

The Inkersall and Crifton assets secured Contracts for Difference (CfDs) under the UK’s Allocation Round 4, ensuring long-term, inflation-linked revenues that strengthen investor confidence in new-build solar infrastructure. NPUK’s portfolio now includes 16 diversified projects totaling 764MW, with over 75% of the fund already committed. By summer’s end, additional projects such as Hatherden, Chapel, and Bindwell will push operational capacity to 419MW. Focused on utility-scale solar and battery storage at the ready-to-build stage, NPUK aims to exceed 1GW of capacity upon full deployment. The fund continues to advance the UK’s Clean Power by 2030 goals, while delivering financial returns and tangible local benefits to UK pensioners and communities alike.