Return, an Amsterdam-based renewable energy project development investor, has announced the closure of a significant €100M growth equity investment. This funding is set to expand its solar and utility-scale storage pipeline and portfolio, marking a pivotal step in advancing solar and energy storage capacity development across Europe.
The investment round, led by Hartenlust Group with a minority share, is a strategic blend of project development, infrastructure, and energy transition opportunities. It aligns perfectly with the vision for sustainable and impactful ventures in the renewable energy sector.
Support from Renowned Energy Transition Leaders
The initiative has garnered support from prominent Dutch energy transition leaders, including Renard Investments, the family office of Stijn Vos (CEO of Enstall), and the founders of Vandebron. Xeno Grimmelt, founder and Partner at Hartenlust Group, expressed great confidence in Return’s capabilities and the positive collaboration with the team.
Utilization of Capital
Return is committed to supporting renewable energy developers and advancing the global energy transition. Recent investments include utility-scale energy storage developer SemperPower and Lion Storage, with projects totaling 350 MW in Zeeland and a pipeline of over 500 MW across the Netherlands. Expanding into Germany and Belgium, Return plans to extend its presence throughout Europe.
Developing a Significant Pipeline
Return’s platform companies are actively developing a pipeline, including 5 GWs of energy storage projects across Europe and 2.5 GWs of solar projects in Spain. Notably, these projects include collaborations with Ekhi and a highlight of a 1.2 GW hybrid green hydrogen and solar park in Europe.
CEO’s Vision for Return
Willem-Jan Schutte, CEO of Return, emphasized the company’s commitment to accelerating the energy transition by developing assets and supporting entrepreneurial teams throughout Europe. With the group of investors now involved, the company anticipates great achievements in the energy sector.
Building an Energy Transition Invest & Build Platform
Founded in 2021 by the minds behind Sunrock and Stecc Capital, the “startup” is a hands-on investment platform for energy infrastructure projects. The firm actively supports renewable energy, storage, distribution, and carbon removal projects, focusing on scaling up early-stage development teams through platform synergies and capital access.
A Leap Towards Sustainable Energy
Return’s second €100M investment is a significant leap towards driving the energy transition in Europe. By combining capital with innovation and the pace of a mission-driven scale-up, Return is set to build companies and projects that will contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.