Norton Rose Fulbright Powers Up the UK’s Green Energy Revolution
In a landmark move for the UK’s renewable energy sector, global law firm Norton Rose Fulbright has played a pivotal role in advising Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners on the financing of the Cleve Hill solar park—the nation’s largest solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery energy storage system (BESS) project. This isn’t just another green energy initiative; it’s a game-changer, blending cutting-edge tech with bold financial engineering to redefine the future of sustainable power.
The project, which secured a whopping £218.5 million term loan and a £20 million VAT facility, marks the largest solar and BESS financing deal ever closed in the UK. Structured in two tranches, the solar PV financing wrapped up in August 2024, while the BESS facility closed in March 2025. This dual-phase approach underscores the project’s complexity and ambition, positioning it as a blueprint for future large-scale renewable energy ventures.
Cleve Hill: A Green Energy Powerhouse
Cleve Hill isn’t just about generating clean energy—it’s about reimagining the energy landscape. Once operational, the solar park is projected to slash carbon emissions by over 142,000 tonnes in its first year alone. But the benefits don’t stop there. The project is also designed to deliver a net biodiversity gain of 67%, creating a harmonious balance between energy production and environmental preservation. Plus, it’s set to generate over 2,500 direct and indirect jobs and inject £114 million into the local economy, proving that sustainability and economic growth can go hand in hand.
Rob Marsh, Global Co-Head of Energy at Norton Rose Fulbright, described the project as a “milestone” for both Quinbrook and the UK market. “This isn’t just about scaling up solar and battery storage—it’s about proving the bankability of co-located renewable energy solutions,” Marsh said. “Cleve Hill is a test case for the future of sustainable energy, and we’re thrilled to have played a part in making it happen.”
Behind the Scenes: The Legal Dream Team
Pulling off a project of this magnitude required a crack team of legal experts. Norton Rose Fulbright’s squad, led by Rob Marsh, included Senior Associate Chris Aird, Associate Georgia Foulkes-Hartley, and Paralegals Thomas Quigley and Rohini Malhotra. Their expertise in navigating the complexities of renewable energy financing was instrumental in bringing this vision to life.
As the UK continues to push toward its net-zero targets, projects like Cleve Hill are setting the standard for what’s possible. By combining solar PV with advanced BESS technology, this initiative is paving the way for a more resilient and sustainable energy grid. It’s not just about generating power—it’s about storing it intelligently and deploying it when it’s needed most.
