Ashurst advised Infinis Energy plc, a leading independent generator of renewable power in the UK, on the acquisition of an 18.5MW consented onshore wind farm project from Peel Group.

The wind farm is sited on former surface mining land in Northumberland and neighbours the 8MW consented Sisters Wind Farm project developed by Infinis.  Both projects are at an advanced stage of pre-construction and will enable Infinis to secure grid connection, turbine procurement and further ongoing operational synergies. Infinis expects grid energisation for both projects in June 2016.

The Ashurst team was led by partner Nick Bryans, together with partner Antony Skinner, assisted by senior associate David Dowding and associate Deena McCabe. Counsel Nicholas Hilder and senior associate Pete Grayson provided advice on the project documentation. Senior associate Cathy Orgill provided advice on real estate matters and associates Charlie Reid and Martyn Hanmore provided planning advice. Tax advice was provided by partner Richard Palmer, assisted by senior associate Philippa Mitchie.

Commenting, Nick Bryans, said:

"This project is fully consented, has a signed connection agreement in place and has entered into leases and therefore, critically, qualifies for the ROC regime as it complies with the grace period conditions announced last week by the Government applicable to new projects which become operational after 31 March 2016. This project represents another milestone for Infinis' growth strategy and we are delighted to have been able to advise Infinis on it, following on so quickly from the recent announcement of the Galawhistle project financing".