Norton Rose Fulbright Powers Up the UK’s Green Energy Revolution with Quinbrook’s Mega Solar and BESS Project
In a groundbreaking move that’s set to redefine the UK’s renewable energy landscape, global legal powerhouse Norton Rose Fulbright has played a pivotal role in advising Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners on the financing of the Cleve Hill solar park. This isn’t just any solar project—it’s the UK’s largest solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery energy storage system (BESS) initiative, and it’s poised to be a game-changer in the fight against climate change.
With a hefty £218.5 million term loan and a £20 million VAT facility, this project financing is the largest of its kind in the UK. The deal was structured in two tranches, with the solar PV component wrapped up in August 2024 and the BESS facility finalized in March 2025. This dual-tranche approach underscores the complexity and ambition of the project, which combines cutting-edge solar tech with next-gen battery storage to create a resilient, future-proof energy solution.
Cleve Hill: A Beacon of Sustainability and Innovation
Cleve Hill isn’t just about generating clean energy—it’s about reimagining what’s possible. Once operational, the solar park is projected to slash carbon emissions by over 142,000 tonnes in its first year alone. But that’s not all. The project is also designed to deliver a net biodiversity gain of over 67%, proving that large-scale infrastructure can coexist harmoniously with nature.
Beyond environmental benefits, Cleve Hill is a powerhouse for economic growth. Over its lifetime, the project is expected to create more than 2,500 direct and indirect jobs and inject over £114 million into the local economy. This isn’t just a win for the planet; it’s a win for communities and businesses alike.
The Legal Minds Behind the Vision
Leading the charge for Norton Rose Fulbright was Rob Marsh, Global Co-Head of Energy, who brought his A-team to the table. Senior Associate Chris Aird, Associate Georgia Foulkes-Hartley, and Paralegals Thomas Quigley and Rohini Malhotra provided the legal firepower needed to navigate this complex financing. Marsh described the project as a “milestone” for both Quinbrook and the UK market, emphasizing its role in scaling co-located solar and BESS solutions to unprecedented levels.
“This project is a true test case for the bankability of sustainable energy solutions,” Marsh said. “It’s not just about financing; it’s about shaping the future of energy in the UK and beyond.”
What’s Next for Renewable Energy?
As the world races toward a net-zero future, projects like Cleve Hill are setting the standard for what’s achievable. With its innovative blend of solar PV and BESS, this initiative is a blueprint for how we can harness technology to build a cleaner, greener world. And with legal heavyweights like Norton Rose Fulbright steering the ship, the future of renewable energy financing looks brighter than ever.
