Mirova, the sustainable investing arm of Natixis Investment Managers, has announced the formation of a dedicated private assets team in Sydney, Australia. This initiative aims to bolster Mirova’s Energy Transition Infrastructure activities in the region, reflecting the growing significance of Australia as a key market for energy transition investments.
Strategic Importance of Australia
Australia has emerged as a vital destination for Mirova’s investments in energy transition, driven by its abundant renewable energy resources, a developing infrastructure pipeline, a supportive policy framework, and an increasing demand for private capital to facilitate the shift towards a lower-carbon economy. The establishment of the Sydney team is a strategic move that enhances Natixis IM’s investment capabilities in Australia and aligns with Mirova’s broader Energy Transition Infrastructure (MET) strategies.
The Australian market not only offers geographic diversification but also presents a risk-return profile that is compatible with European markets. Mirova has already made significant strides in the region, having invested over AUD 700 million (approximately EUR 450 million) in various projects across Australia and New Zealand. These investments include partnerships with clean energy companies such as TagEnergy, EV charging specialist JET Charge, and renewables firm Yanara Australia.
New Team Structure and Leadership
The newly formed Sydney team will initially comprise three professionals: an Investment Director, an Investment Manager, and an Investment Analyst. This team will focus on sourcing, assessing, and supporting investments for Mirova’s Energy Transition Infrastructure platform while fostering relationships with local investors, developers, and industry stakeholders.
Kim Nguyen has been appointed as the Investment Director leading the Sydney team. With over 20 years of experience in infrastructure, energy, and private markets, Nguyen previously served as Executive Director of Investments at the New South Wales Government’s Energy Security Corporation and led the Australian operations of Foresight Group. Her extensive background positions her well to drive Mirova’s initiatives in the region.
Market Demand and Future Prospects
According to Danny King, Managing Director and Head of Australia and New Zealand at Natixis Investment Managers Australia, there is a growing demand from Australian and New Zealand investors for European energy transition infrastructure opportunities. The establishment of the Sydney investment team will facilitate closer collaboration with Mirova’s Energy Transition Infrastructure team in Paris, enabling local clients to access European investment expertise and opportunities more effectively.
King noted, “As clients look to deploy more capital in Europe, this local capability will strengthen our ability to connect them directly with Mirova’s investment expertise, origination capabilities, and opportunity set across the region.” This sentiment underscores the long-term confidence that Natixis Investment Managers has in the Australian market and its commitment to expanding its capabilities in the region.
Strengthening Engagement in the Asia-Pacific Region
Raphaël Lance, Deputy General Manager and Global Head of Private Assets at Mirova, highlighted that Australia has become a strategic market for Mirova’s private assets platform. He stated, “A dedicated presence in Sydney is a natural next step that will strengthen our origination capabilities, deepen our engagement with market participants and support the continued growth of our Energy Transition Infrastructure activities across Australia and the broader Asia-Pacific region.”
The establishment of this team not only signifies Mirova’s commitment to the Australian market but also reflects the increasing importance of energy transition investments globally. As the world shifts towards sustainable energy solutions, Mirova aims to play a pivotal role in facilitating this transition through strategic investments in the region.
Conclusion
The launch of Mirova’s Sydney investment team marks a significant step in enhancing its presence and capabilities in the energy transition sector within Australia. With a dedicated focus on private assets and a commitment to sustainable investing, Mirova is well-positioned to capitalise on the growing opportunities in the Australian market. As the demand for renewable energy solutions continues to rise, Mirova’s strategic investments are likely to contribute to the broader goal of achieving a lower-carbon economy in the region.
This article was submitted via the World of Renewables press desk.
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