Downing Renewable Developments - a pillar of Downing's Energy and Infrastructure team

21/4/26
5 min
Renewable energy
Insight

What is Downing Renewable Developments?

Downing Renewable Developments (DRD) oversees the development and delivery of new renewable energy and infrastructure assets. This subsidiary was established in 2021 in Glasgow and has since grown to include offices in Stockholm and Helsinki.

DRD manages all aspects of the development and delivery process, which includes:

  • Site feasibility assessments
  • Land acquisition
  • Obtaining planning permissions
  • Stakeholder engagement
  • Construction and contractor management
  • Commissioning and testing

The team works hard to unlock value at every stage of the development process, offering different investment opportunities depending on the development maturity of a project. The developed assets become significantly derisked, are institutional-grade and tailored to fund return targets and delivery timelines.

Our project approach

DRD follows a clear, consistent and structured development approach, aiming to support local communities while delivering projects on schedule and generating value for investors. Our strong track record in developing new assets is evidence of this capability.

The team has deep expertise across the energy sector and leverages this knowledge to maximise value and revenue opportunities for each project. They aim to minimise site attrition by selecting locations with the highest likelihood of planning success. This is strengthened by DRD’s research-led approach, which includes viability screening, land assessment, and multiple points of community engagement.

Our supply chain is a vital part of successful project delivery. DRD therefore engages with suppliers at an early stage to ensure timely delivery and reduce the risk of supply-chain issues.

What projects we offer

DRD currently has a pipeline of around 9GW (as at March 2026) with projects across the UK and Nordics. These projects include:

  • Standalone solar (with co-located batteries)
  • Standalone batteries
  • Onshore wind projects

They are located across a range of local authorities to better ensure planning consent success across the country. The projects also have phased grid connections, offering short or long-term delivery opportunities and seeing continuous progression through the pipeline. The variety of locations, technologies and stages in development supply diverse opportunities for investors interested in renewable energy.

Learn more about DRD and its operations here.

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Downing’s Energy and Infrastructure team consists of three integrated functions that construct, develop, finance and operate renewable energy and infrastructure assets. This multi-functional team is unique in its investment offering as it gives investors the opportunity to invest across the full asset lifecycle. Through its focus on renewable energy, the Energy and Infrastructure team supports the UK governments aims to achieve Clean Power 2030 as well as global efforts to reach net zero.

What is Downing Renewable Developments?

Downing Renewable Developments (DRD) oversees the development and delivery of new renewable energy and infrastructure assets. This subsidiary was established in 2021 in Glasgow and has since grown to include offices in Stockholm and Helsinki.

DRD manages all aspects of the development and delivery process, which includes:

  • Site feasibility assessments
  • Land acquisition
  • Obtaining planning permissions
  • Stakeholder engagement
  • Construction and contractor management
  • Commissioning and testing

The team works hard to unlock value at every stage of the development process, offering different investment opportunities depending on the development maturity of a project. The developed assets become significantly derisked, are institutional-grade and tailored to fund return targets and delivery timelines.

Our project approach

DRD follows a clear, consistent and structured development approach, aiming to support local communities while delivering projects on schedule and generating value for investors. Our strong track record in developing new assets is evidence of this capability.

The team has deep expertise across the energy sector and leverages this knowledge to maximise value and revenue opportunities for each project. They aim to minimise site attrition by selecting locations with the highest likelihood of planning success. This is strengthened by DRD’s research-led approach, which includes viability screening, land assessment, and multiple points of community engagement.

Our supply chain is a vital part of successful project delivery. DRD therefore engages with suppliers at an early stage to ensure timely delivery and reduce the risk of supply-chain issues.

What projects we offer

DRD currently has a pipeline of around 9GW (as at March 2026) with projects across the UK and Nordics. These projects include:

  • Standalone solar (with co-located batteries)
  • Standalone batteries
  • Onshore wind projects

They are located across a range of local authorities to better ensure planning consent success across the country. The projects also have phased grid connections, offering short or long-term delivery opportunities and seeing continuous progression through the pipeline. The variety of locations, technologies and stages in development supply diverse opportunities for investors interested in renewable energy.

Learn more about DRD and its operations here.

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

Downing’s Energy and Infrastructure team consists of three integrated functions that construct, develop, finance and operate renewable energy and infrastructure assets. This multi-functional team is unique in its investment offering as it gives investors the opportunity to invest across the full asset lifecycle. Through its focus on renewable energy, the Energy and Infrastructure team supports the UK governments aims to achieve Clean Power 2030 as well as global efforts to reach net zero.

What is Downing Renewable Developments?

Downing Renewable Developments (DRD) oversees the development and delivery of new renewable energy and infrastructure assets. This subsidiary was established in 2021 in Glasgow and has since grown to include offices in Stockholm and Helsinki.

DRD manages all aspects of the development and delivery process, which includes:

  • Site feasibility assessments
  • Land acquisition
  • Obtaining planning permissions
  • Stakeholder engagement
  • Construction and contractor management
  • Commissioning and testing

The team works hard to unlock value at every stage of the development process, offering different investment opportunities depending on the development maturity of a project. The developed assets become significantly derisked, are institutional-grade and tailored to fund return targets and delivery timelines.

Our project approach

DRD follows a clear, consistent and structured development approach, aiming to support local communities while delivering projects on schedule and generating value for investors. Our strong track record in developing new assets is evidence of this capability.

The team has deep expertise across the energy sector and leverages this knowledge to maximise value and revenue opportunities for each project. They aim to minimise site attrition by selecting locations with the highest likelihood of planning success. This is strengthened by DRD’s research-led approach, which includes viability screening, land assessment, and multiple points of community engagement.

Our supply chain is a vital part of successful project delivery. DRD therefore engages with suppliers at an early stage to ensure timely delivery and reduce the risk of supply-chain issues.

What projects we offer

DRD currently has a pipeline of around 9GW (as at March 2026) with projects across the UK and Nordics. These projects include:

  • Standalone solar (with co-located batteries)
  • Standalone batteries
  • Onshore wind projects

They are located across a range of local authorities to better ensure planning consent success across the country. The projects also have phased grid connections, offering short or long-term delivery opportunities and seeing continuous progression through the pipeline. The variety of locations, technologies and stages in development supply diverse opportunities for investors interested in renewable energy.

Learn more about DRD and its operations here.

Downing Renewable Developments - a pillar of Downing's Energy and Infrastructure team
Learn more

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.”

What is Downing Renewable Developments?

Downing Renewable Developments (DRD) oversees the development and delivery of new renewable energy and infrastructure assets. This subsidiary was established in 2021 in Glasgow and has since grown to include offices in Stockholm and Helsinki.

DRD manages all aspects of the development and delivery process, which includes:

  • Site feasibility assessments
  • Land acquisition
  • Obtaining planning permissions
  • Stakeholder engagement
  • Construction and contractor management
  • Commissioning and testing

The team works hard to unlock value at every stage of the development process, offering different investment opportunities depending on the development maturity of a project. The developed assets become significantly derisked, are institutional-grade and tailored to fund return targets and delivery timelines.

Our project approach

DRD follows a clear, consistent and structured development approach, aiming to support local communities while delivering projects on schedule and generating value for investors. Our strong track record in developing new assets is evidence of this capability.

The team has deep expertise across the energy sector and leverages this knowledge to maximise value and revenue opportunities for each project. They aim to minimise site attrition by selecting locations with the highest likelihood of planning success. This is strengthened by DRD’s research-led approach, which includes viability screening, land assessment, and multiple points of community engagement.

Our supply chain is a vital part of successful project delivery. DRD therefore engages with suppliers at an early stage to ensure timely delivery and reduce the risk of supply-chain issues.

What projects we offer

DRD currently has a pipeline of around 9GW (as at March 2026) with projects across the UK and Nordics. These projects include:

  • Standalone solar (with co-located batteries)
  • Standalone batteries
  • Onshore wind projects

They are located across a range of local authorities to better ensure planning consent success across the country. The projects also have phased grid connections, offering short or long-term delivery opportunities and seeing continuous progression through the pipeline. The variety of locations, technologies and stages in development supply diverse opportunities for investors interested in renewable energy.

Learn more about DRD and its operations here.

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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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